Breast augmentation is often the plastic surgery procedure that makes the headlines. Actresses, rock stars, and sports icons often choose and highly publicize their decisions to undergo breast augmentation. Yet for many, a lesser-known plastic surgery procedure, known as breast reduction, has given them reason to celebrate. Breast reduction surgery is often needed—not only for aesthetic purposes—but also for functional and physiological reasons.
Tennis Star Simona Halep- Image from Wikipedia
22-year old tennis star, Simona Halep, was one such person. In the 2008 French Open, she had 34DD breasts that caused her severe back pain and made it uncomfortable to play. Thus, in 2009, Halep made the decision to undergo breast reduction surgery to improve her reaction times and help in her bid to win Wimbledon. She went from a 34DD to a 34C and has since soared up the rankings. She is now seeded as the number three for Wimbledon and she couldn't be happier with her decision.
Yet not everyone was on-board with Halep's decision initially, and she faced media scrutiny and public disapproval. Many people didn't understand that for Halep, breast reduction was more than just about winning matches; it was about improving her overall quality of life—and it wasn't just a professional decision. Halep personally struggled with her ample bust size for years. At the time of her operation, Halep said, " I don't like them in my everyday life either. I would've gone for surgery even if I hadn't been a sportswoman."
Simona Halep isn't the only star that chose breast reduction surgery. Other popular celebrities who have embraced breast reduction include:
- Jennifer Connelly
- Drew Barrymore
- Soleil Moon Frye
- Queen Latifah
- Roseanne Barr
- Mimi Rogers
- Sharon Osborne
Why do so Many Women Choose Breast Reduction Surgery?
For many women, breast reduction surgery may be the step they need to take to improve their overall quality of life. Not only can breast reduction surgery improve your self-image and self-confidence, but it can also improve your ability to participate in physical activities, such as running, tennis, and soccer. It can also drastically reduce back, neck and shoulder pain.
Breast reduction surgery can help women resolve issues, such as:
- Chronic back, neck or shoulder pain
- Painful rashes under breast skin
- Bra strap pressure
- Limited physical activity
- Sleep difficulty
- Poor body image
- Difficulty fitting into clothes or dresses
Breast reduction surgery is not only performed for aesthetic purposes, but also for reconstructive purposes. In 2013 alone, more than 62,000 patients had reconstructive breast reduction surgery, while over 41,000 women chose to undergo breast reduction surgery for aesthetic reasons. And women aren't the only ones who choose breast reduction. Men with a medical condition known as gynecomastia may choose breast reduction surgery. In 2013, nearly 23,000 men chose the procedure.
In general, the majority of women and men are extremely pleased with their decision to have breast reduction surgery. A study published in the March 2012 issue of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery found that women reported significant improvement in many aspects of their lives, including reducing headaches, breathing and sleeping difficulties, and musculoskeletal pain. It also reduced depression and anxiety in women and men and improved their overall self-esteem.
Contact Pasadena Breast Reduction Specialists
If you are considering breast reduction, it is important to choose a plastic surgeon carefully. You need a plastic surgeon that can help you carefully craft a personalized plan to achieve the look you desire. For years, Pasadena women and men have chosen Dr. Kevin Ruhge to perform their breast reduction surgery. If you would like to learn more about breast reduction surgery or other non-surgical alternatives, we invite you to meet with Dr. Ruhge for a private consultation at our office in Pasadena by calling 626.397.9095, or by scheduling an appointment online.
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