For most women with large, heavy breasts, breast reduction surgery is a safe and effective way to reduce the size of their breasts. The surgery can help enhance body image and eliminate physical pain and discomfort, bra strap indentations, skin irritation and poor posture. You may need a breast reduction if you experience the following:

• Breasts that are too large in proportion to your body frame
• Heavy, pendulous breasts with nipples and areolas that point downward
• One breast that is much larger than the other
• Back, neck or shoulder pain caused by the weight of your breasts
• Skin irritation beneath the breasts
• Indentations in your shoulders from tight bra straps
• Restriction of physical activity due to the size and weight of breasts
• Dissatisfaction or self-consciousness about the size of your breasts

You might be a good candidate for breast reduction surgery if you are:

• In good overall health with no major medical issues
• Well informed about the procedure and what to expect
• Emotionally stable
• Experiencing back, shoulder or neck pain associated with overly large breasts
• Having difficulty finding dresses or tops that fit
• Uncomfortable with your appearance because of the size of your breasts

You may NOT be a good candidate if you are:

• Unhealthy or have medical issues making you unfit for the procedure
• Pregnant, breastfeeding or plan on having children in the future
• Not realistic about expectations
• History of irregular mammograms
• Obese
• Smoker

The best way to really know if you need a breast reduction is to have a consultation with Dr. Nickodem. To schedule an appointment in Annandale, contact Anne Nickodem, MD at 703-560-8711 or website today.