Breast reduction surgery in demand, say doctors

After the boom in breast enhancement, cosmetic surgeons are now seeing a growing number of women such as Singh opting for breast reduction surgery.

For Khar resident Roma Singh (name changed), 30, the size of her breasts had become a source of awkwardness and pain in the last few years.

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"I have a petite frame. I felt that my breasts were disproportionate to my body," said Singh, who at 45kg and height of 5.2 feet had a 32 DD bra size. Singh was constantly dealing with shoulder and back pain when she chanced upon an article about large breasts leading to strain on one's shoulders and back. "I thought this might be the case with me," said the fashion designer.

After the boom in breast enhancement, cosmetic surgeons are now seeing a growing number of women such as Singh opting for breast reduction surgery. Increased awareness about the surgical possibility for breast reduction, financial independence and greater awareness of their own bodies are a few of the reasons for more women opting for such a procedure, said city doctors.

"Breast reduction is sometimes a procedure to reduce physical discomfort and social awkwardness associated with abnormally large breasts, more than cosmetic concerns alone," said Dr Milind Wagh, plastic and cosmetic surgeon, Dr LH Hiranandani Hospital. Several women feel depressed because of their body shape. Discomfort stems from bra straps cutting into their shoulders or possible fungal infections under the breasts. "Till two years ago I used to perform two to three such surgeries a month. Now I perform one every week," said Dr Wagh.

According to Dr Mohan Thomas, senior cosmetic surgeon, Breach Candy Hospital some women opt for breast reduction post pregnancy, which enlarges the breasts. Refinement in the surgery techniques, especially in limiting scars, has added to the appeal among young women.