Deciding to undergo a breast reduction can be one of the most rewarding decisions you can make. After all, there are numerous benefits to undergoing this procedure. Some women will be able to lose weight to reduce the size of the breasts and fix any symptoms and issues they have. However, for others, this is not the case, and surgery becomes one of the more appealing options.
So what are the signs that you’re ready for a breast reduction?
1. You are over 18
Many women will develop large breasts before they are 18. While it may seem appealing to have a breast reduction as soon as possible, most plastic surgeons will not offer this procedure until you are at least 18 years old. Some surgeons will recommend waiting until you are 20 before undergoing a breast reduction. Before you are 18, your body will still be developing and changing. With more time, your physique may change and your body may appear more in proportion. Because of these reasons, it is important to wait until you are 18 before you undergo a breast reduction.
2. You are experiencing back and neck pain
One of the main reasons women elect to undergo a breast reduction is to reduce physical pain, including in the neck and back. The excess weight caused by the large breasts can cause posture problems, which can result in you experiencing pain in both the back and neck. This can have a significant negative impact on your daily life.
3. You experience headaches
Back and neck pain isn’t the only physical pain larger breasts can cause – they can also be responsible for headaches and migraines. Larger breasts can cause muscle strain, which then causes you to experience headaches and migraines.
4. You are undertaking the surgery for yourself
No matter what plastic surgery you are thinking about undergoing, you need to be doing it for the right reasons. Your surgeon will only proceed if they know you are having the surgery for the right reasons. The surgeon may refuse to let you undergo the procedure if they suspect you are doing it to please someone else or for their benefit. Make sure you know exactly why you want this procedure and whether or not you are doing it for the right reasons before you attend any consultations.
5. Your breasts impact on your self-esteem and confidence
Often when you are uncomfortable with your body, it can have a negative impact on your self-esteem and confidence. Having larger breasts can often attract unwanted attention and judgement from others. You may feel uncomfortable in certain types of clothing or find it difficult to find flattering clothes for your figure.
6. You have difficulty completing everyday tasks
Larger breasts don’t just cause physical pain – sometimes they can cause everyday tasks to become increasingly more difficult. Many women will find exercise will become more difficult, and sports bras may provide inadequate support. Having a breast reduction can help to remove excess weight and bulkiness, allowing you to partake in exercises and physical activity more freely.
7. You are at a healthy weight
A breast reduction is performed under a general anaesthetic, which means you will not be awake throughout the duration of the procedure. As a result of this, it is a requirement that you have a healthy BMI prior to undergoing this procedure. The procedure may not be offered if you have a BMI above 30.
If you are struggling to lose weight, your surgeon may be able to offer you weight loss tips.
8. You can take enough time off for recovery
Breast reduction is considered an invasive procedure and therefore requires a recovery period. Bruising and swelling can last up to four weeks. You will also have to avoid any strenuous physical activities for six weeks. If you have a physically demanding job you may have to consider how much time you will need to take off before it is safe for you to return. If you have an office job you may be able to return to work sooner. Your surgeon will be able to tell you how much time they recommend you take off work; you may need to take two weeks off to recover. If you are unable to take the necessary amount of time off work you may wish to consider whether or not it is the right time to undergo a breast reduction.
9. You understand the risks and have realistic expectations
To be considered an appropriate candidate for surgery, you will need to have a full understanding of the risks involved with your surgery. You will also need to have realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve. During your consultation, make sure to ask all the necessary questions so you feel comfortable to proceed with surgery.
Do you feel like you are ready to have a breast reduction? This is a procedure Centre for Surgery currently offers. Contact us today to find out more information or to book a consultation.
