Are You a Good Candidate for Breast Reduction Surgery?

Reviewed by Munish K. Batra, MD, FACS

Patients normally wait until their breasts are fully developed before breast reduction surgery is performed. When breast size causes pain or if the breasts are causing disruptive self-consciousness in a teenage girl, the procedure may be performed in the teenage years.

For women who plan to breast feed, breast reduction surgery is not recommended. Women who are extremely obese or who have heart, lung or kidney problems may not be good candidates.

Best Candidates for Breast Reduction

The best candidates for breast reduction surgery are well-adjusted women who understand the purpose of the procedure. Good candidates include those whose oversized breasts cause medical problems, including back and neck pain, trouble breathing, and postural problems, which can lead to skeletal deformities.

Good candidates are also those whose oversized breasts disrupt sleep, restrict movement, and interfere with routine activities. Oversized breasts may also hang against the underlying skin, causing hygiene problems leading to irritation, rashes, and infections.

Candidates often experience frustration trying to find clothes that fit well. The weight of the breasts may cause bra straps to irritate the shoulder area, or chafing under the breasts. For some women or teenage girls, oversized breasts can make them self-conscious and undermine their self image. Athletic activities are very limited.

Patients with any combination of these conditions or symptoms may be good candidates for breast reduction surgery.

[page updated May 2008]