Breast reduction surgery is not the most-talked-about form of plastic surgery that occurs today. However, it's very common, with around 90,000 of these surgeries performed each year in the United States.

While it can understandably be a private matter, many celebrities like Queen Latifah and Sunny Hostin have revealed that they underwent breast reduction surgery. Queen Latifah shared that her kickboxing workouts were difficult with her DD breast size. Hostin said she made her decision after years of struggling with back pain and body-image issues.

However, Blac Chyna made waves in January when she shared that she developed complications from her breast reduction surgery.

We spoke with medical experts to understand what women need to know if they’re considering the procedure.

Reasons for getting a breast reduction

Breast reductions are usually sought for a combination of reasons. Physical pain is typically the most common complaint.

“Heavy pendulous breasts cause neck and back pain,” Dr. Steven Williams, president of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, told Atlanta Black Star. “That weight can also trigger other symptoms like migraines.”

Williams went on to explain that patients can also get significant rashes in the folds of heavy breasts. Some women may even experience skin inflammation in the fold below the breast due to excessive moisture and contact.

“Large breasts can restrict physical activities, leading women to desire a reduction in breast size to improve mobility and comfort," said Dr. Nicholas Jones, an Atlanta-based plastic surgeon.

Amber Rose, Queen Latifah, and Sherri Shepherd all noted physical discomfort and their inability to comfortably carry out regular tasks as their main reason for doing the procedure. Shepherd jokingly said that she just wanted to experience sleeping on her stomach.

Jones also explained that breast reductions can make the breasts more symmetrical, restore shape after aging or childbearing years, and improve shape and nipple position on the breast mound.

Risk factors to consider

Every surgical procedure carries some amount of risk. Breast reduction surgery is no different.

“It’s important that patients are close to their ideal body weight, have stopped smoking, and are in general good health,” Williams said. Smoking increases the risk of complications during and after surgery, including impaired wound healing and increased risk of infection. 

“Obesity is associated with a higher risk of surgical complications, including wound healing issues and increased anesthesia risks,” Jones said. “Some surgeons may advise weight loss before surgery to optimize outcomes.”