Abnormally large breasts pose a problem for many women, and a growing number are turning to reduction mammaplasty, or breast reduction surgery. This procedure offers women have relief from the physical and mental pain brought about by abnormally large breasts. Problems can include:

• Feeling unattractive
• Finding clothes that fit properly
• Difficulty exercising
• Difficulty breathing
• Physical pain
• Backache
• Neck pain
• Irritation at the crease of the breasts

Fortunately, these challenges can be overcome. During reduction mammaplasty, the surgeon restores balance and proportion using liposuction. This procedure includes reducing the size and reshaping the contour of large breasts by removing excess skin and underlying tissue. The results are smaller, better shaped breasts that are in proportion with the rest of the body.

Women of all ages -- from 14 to 70 -- obtain reduction mammaplasty. For younger women, the surgery can be beneficial in terms of their psychological development. For older women, the extra weight of abnormally large breasts can be a physical burden.

Reduction mammaplasty takes between three and four hours. Often an overnight hospitalization is required. Full recovery usually takes about two weeks.