If you’re interested in breast reduction surgery, there are several aspects the plastic surgeon will assess to determine if you are a candidate. Primarily, the procedure is suitable for those who suffer from physical discomfort or pain due to large breasts. This discomfort can manifest in various ways: • Breast weight and size: Breasts that weigh over 2 pounds each or cause significant back, neck, and shoulder pain. If your breasts limit your physical activity or make it difficult to find clothes that fit properly, you might be a good candidate for surgery. • Skin irritation: Conditions like rashes, infections, or moisture retention under the breasts caused by excess skin and tissue. • Breast symmetry: Asymmetry of 10% or more between breasts. In addition, psychological discomfort is just as valid a reason for seeking a breast reduction as physical discomfort. If your breasts are causing low self-esteem, body image issues, or other forms of psychological distress, breast reduction surgery may be right for you. It’s ideal for candidates to be at or near their desired weight before surgery. As smoking can affect wound healing and heighten the risk of complications, ideal candidates are non-smokers. Patients with a history of breast cancer or a high risk of developing this disease may not be suitable candidates. Certain factors make breast reduction inadvisable, including active infections, recent pregnancy or breastfeeding, severe scarring or keloid formation, or inability to tolerate anesthesia.