Large breasts can cause multiple problems, including neck, back, shoulder pain, headaches, shoulder-grooving (bra-straps digging in), interference with activities and exercise, rashes under the breasts, inability to find clothing that fits properly and psychological problems with self-image. As a result, women with large breasts are often in chronic pain, have little energy and may be overweight because they are unable to exercise, which prevents them from enjoying a higher quality of life.

While weight loss and exercise are often suggested by most physicians prior to surgery, these efforts are often futile. Weight loss usually does not alleviate the symptoms of large breasts. Medications may be of some benefit, but usually the effect is limited. Invariably, surgery is the most effective, efficient and most successful way to treat problematic large breasts.

Breast reduction can be performed at any age, but plastic surgeons usually recommend waiting until breast development has stopped. Breast reduction is a surgical procedure in which breast tissue and skin is removed, resulting in a smaller breast. Removal of excess skin results in a breast that is higher on the chest and has a more pleasant appearance. This is an important component of the operation, because it allows the breast to be restored to a more youthful appearance and shape. During the operation, the nipples-areola complex is moved to a higher position on your breasts. This is usually accomplished without removing your nipples.

The technique used to do this is called breast transposition, in which the nipple stays fully attached to the breast and only the surrounding skin is moved. As the nipple preserves its attachment, most women retain nipple sensation and the ability to breast feed. Only in cases where the breasts are severely enlarged do the nipples require free grafting (completely detached from the body). Childbirth and breast-feeding may have significant and unpredictable effects on the size and shape of your breasts. Nevertheless, many women decide to undergo breast reduction before having children and feel that they can address any subsequent changes later. If you plan to breast-feed in the future, you should discuss this with your plastic surgeon.

No one can guarantee your final cup size, simply because cup size is not standardized. Have a detailed discussion with our plastic surgeon prior to surgery to communicate your desired size. Explaining your preference in comparison to your current size is very helpful. For example, you might want to be somewhere between one third and one half of your current size. Realize that this operation involves scars. If you are unwilling to accept scars, you should not have this operation, as no surgeon can predict how scars will heal on you. Quit smoking for at least eight weeks before surgery.

Dave Stringham, the President of LookingYourBest.com writes about plastic surgeons in Phoenix, Arizona and breast contouring plastic surgery procedures such as phoenix breast reduction, breast lift, breast augmentation, and breast reconstruction.

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