Some burdens are emotional. Some are cultural. And some… are just really heavy.
Literally
Let’s talk about something that’s been hiding in plain sight, yet rarely makes it to the dinner table conversation—not politics, not in-laws, but breasts. More specifically, very large, very heavy, very misunderstood breasts.
In India, we love metaphors—weight of responsibility, burden of expectations, pressure to perform. But what happens when the weight is not just metaphorical, but anatomical? There are women who live each day with an actual physical burden on their chest. Not metaphorical baggage, but kilos of breast tissue causing chronic pain, poor posture, skin infections, and an identity crisis they didn’t sign up for.
And the worst part? Many of them don’t even know there’s a solution.
When a Gift Becomes a Curse
Having a full chest is often seen as a blessing. One patient said “So lucky!” they say. “You must never have to wear padded bras!” “If only a well-fitting bra could also carry the emotional weight I carry”.
Relief Exists
Enter: macromastia, a medical condition characterized by excessively large breasts. Sounds exotic? Not really. It’s more common than you think and far more debilitating than we talk about. So many women suffer in silence, duct-taping their discomfort with posture correctors, and tight blouses. Because, if you’re not bleeding, limping, or gasping—you’re fine, right?
Wrong.
The surgery involves careful removal of excess breast tissue ,fat and skin while reshaping , repositioning and maintaining the proportion. On contrary to common myths :Breast feeding may still be possible after the surgery ,nipple sensation may change but is usually temporary and the recovery is manageable , with patients returning to daily activities in 3-4 weeks’ time.
As a plastic surgeon, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing dramatic transformations. Not just in shape or size, but in posture, in confidence, in breath.
One of my patients, let’s call her Joe, was a 27-year-old Bharatanatyam dancer .Graceful on stage, but behind the curtains, she was exhausted—physically bent and emotionally tired. When she finally underwent breast reduction surgery, she didn’t just reclaim her spine; she reclaimed her stage. “For the first time in years, I felt like I could dance without apologizing for my body” she said.
This isn’t anecdotal fluff
The World Health Organization defines health as complete physical, mental, and social well-being—not just the absence of disease. Macromastia flunks all three.
According to the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), breast reduction is among the top procedures worldwide for patient satisfaction. We’re talking 95%+ satisfaction rates.
The Indian Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (IAAPS) reports that in India, over 80% of women who opt for breast reduction do so for medical reasons—not aesthetics. Their motivation? Pain relief, mobility, mental clarity.
It’s not about vanity. And the surgery? Modern reduction mammoplasty techniques are safer than ever, with minimal scarring, retained nipple sensation in most cases, and—contrary to urban legend—you can breastfeed afterward in many instances.
So, what’s holding us back?
Cultural Modesty vs. Medical Necessity
Let’s face it: In India, we don’t talk about breasts unless they’re feeding babies, starring in cinema, or being used in crime reporting.
Health? Silence.
But here’s the twist: Breast reduction isn’t about shame. It’s about showing up for yourself.
It’s about the woman who wants to run without being winded or stared at. The teenage girl who’s tired of being teased in school. The working mom who just wants to buy a kurti that buttons up all the way.
It’s about dignity.
Confidence and Comfort
You know what really happens after breast reduction surgery? Yes, there’s physical relief. Yes, there’s better posture. But above all—there’s peace !
- Peace of mind when shopping for clothes that actually fit.
- Peace in your body when jogging / dancing or just lying flat without discomfort.
- Peace in your reflection—finally seeing yourself, not just your chest.
So… Why Are We Still Whispering?
Breast reduction surgery is safe, effective and emotionally liberating. And yet, so few talk about it. We need information. We need awareness. And we need to stop treating suffering as a badge of honour.
Let’s Lighten the Load !
This blog isn’t a sales pitch for surgery. It’s a love letter to women who’ve carried silent pain for far too long. It’s a gentle reminder that discomfort is not a virtue, and relief is not vanity.
If you’re reading this and nodding quietly, wondering whether your pain is valid—it is. If you’re hesitating to seek help—don’t. And if you’re judging someone else’s decision to undergo breast reduction—maybe ask what they’ve been carrying before you weigh in.
Because for many, this isn’t about going down a cup size.
It’s about finally standing up straight.
And a board certified cosmetic plastic surgeon can help you with the same .
Written by,
Dr.Anjana Elangovan,
Register number – TNMC-120693
Phone number :8056270507
IAAPS NUMBER – 2025/TN/96
Disclaimer : The opinions here are personal views of the authors. IAAPS is not responsible. All members may not have the same scientific view point
