Who may be a suitable candidate for Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty)?

Breast reduction is a surgical procedure designed to reduce breast size and weight while reshaping the breasts and repositioning the nipples for improved comfort, proportion, and everyday freedom of movement.

INDICATIONS

Breast reduction may be suitable for patients who:

• Have breasts that are disproportionately large relative to their body frame.
• Experience persistent neck, back, or shoulder pain related to breast weight.
• Notice deep bra-strap grooves, headaches, or pressure-related discomfort.
• Experience rashes, irritation, or recurrent skin infections beneath the breasts.
• Find exercise or daily movement difficult or uncomfortable.
• Have a noticeable difference in breast size between the two sides.
• Feel that breast size affects clothing choices, confidence, or daily comfort.
• Are in good general health, maintain a reasonably stable weight, and have realistic expectations about scars and recovery.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

The procedure may not be appropriate, or may need to be delayed, when:

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding is planned soon, as pregnancy may affect the result and future breastfeeding ability may be affected in some cases.
• Weight is unstable or significant weight loss is expected soon.
• Uncontrolled medical conditions, bleeding disorders, or healing concerns increase surgical and anaesthetic risk.
• The patient smokes and cannot follow preoperative cessation requirements.
• There are unexplained breast lumps, cysts, or changes that require medical evaluation first.
• Expectations assume scar-free surgery or a specific size that does not align with safe surgical limits and natural body proportion.
• The patient wants to maintain the same breast volume and only improve lift; a breast lift may be more appropriate after assessment.

Note: This article is for general patient education and does not determine individual suitability. Final recommendations, planning and expected recovery are determined after medical assessment and consultation.