Bigger Isn’t Always Better

Our brains have been trained to think that bigger is better. In the plastic surgical realm that philosophy has created a demand for hundreds of thousands of breast augmentations each year. Women who want to raise self-confidence, create a more pleasing contour, or fit their clothes better have found a solution in breast augmentation.

So it doesn’t surprise me when people look at me with stunned reaction when I tell them women who are naturally blessed with larger breasts often seek reduction surgery.

A breast reduction can provide comfort and alleviate chronic pain. Overly large breasts are often burdensome. Their weight can cause significant back, neck and shoulder pain. By removing extra tissue, fat and skin and repositioning the nipple and areola, breast reductions create a more balanced body contour. The result is smaller, perkier breasts.

The physical and psychological results – in most cases – are similar to breast augmentation. My breast reduction patients tell me they are most pleased with their freedom – to wear fitted shirts without causing unwanted attention, to be able to exercise without pain or embarrassment, and to be able to stand straight, tall and proud.

Vanessa Voge, MD, is a board-certified plastic surgeon and medical director of Plastic Surgical Specialists, a subdivision of Wichita Surgical Specialists, P.A. Dr. Voge provides personalized cosmetic plastic surgery on the body, breast, face and skin.