ADAM Health Encyclopedia

Breast reduction (mammoplasty) - series

Indications

Breast reduction is usually performed for enlarged breasts (macromastia), but may also be indicated by:

cystic breast infections (polycystic mastitis)
back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, breast pain, or headaches
loss of sensation in the breasts, arms, or fingers
sleeping problems or poor posture resulting from large breasts
pigmented bra-strap groove
striae (scarlike lines) on the breasts

Mammograms (breast X-rays) and a routine breast exam are required before surgery.

Review Date: 10/19/2007
Reviewed By: Hebe Molmenti, M.D., Ph.D., Private Practice specializing in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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