When it comes to breast size, bigger is always better, right? Not necessarily.

Breast augmentation remains one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the U.S., but not all women value large breasts. In fact, breast reduction in San Francisco and across the rest of the country has been gaining momentum in the past several years. According to statistics released by the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), there was roughly one reduction performed for every two augmentations in 2011.

Though every patient is unique, we do find that the reasons for seeking out breast reduction are typically related to one or more of the following five categories:

1) Reduces Unwanted Male Attention

While most women enjoy feeling attractive, too much attention focused on large breasts can result in significant psychological discomfort.  Many women with disproportionally large breasts feel embarrassed by their chest or feel it doesn’t accurately represent who they are as a person.

Numerous research studies have shown that women who have undergone breast reduction experience a variety of psychological benefits including higher self-esteem, increased sexual satisfaction, as well as a reduction in anxiety and depression.

2) Makes Exercise More Comfortable

Many women with large breasts find it difficult or even impossible to participate in rigorous exercise. Even with the support of multiple sports bras, they still experience an uncomfortable “bounce” which can be both embarrassing and painful.

For many patients, breast reduction re-introduces them to the joys of physical exercise. They’re more likely to be physically active and experience numerous health and body benefits as a result. Breast reductions patients are also less prone to eating disorders following surgery.

3) Chronic Pain Reduction

Extremely large breasts are typically linked to physical discomfort – especially chronic pain in the back, neck and shoulders. Bra-strap “grooving” which occurs when the straps must hold a significant amount of weight is also common. As a result of this chronic pain, many women suffer with a decreased quality of life.

Because breast reduction surgery removes excess tissue, fat and skin from the chest, it improves posture and can significantly reduce or completely eliminate (depending on the extent of the procedure) this form of chronic pain.

4) Diversifies Clothing Options

Expanding your wardrobe can be both uplifting and fun or completely demoralizing, depending on how you feel about your body. Disproportionately large breasts not only make it difficult to find tops, bras and swimsuits that actually fit, they can make even the most basic wardrobe add-ons appear unflattering or inappropriate.

Following breast reduction, most women feel more comfortable with the way their clothes fit. This results in increased body confidence and improved self-esteem.

5) Prevents Rashes

Though it might not be the first thing most people consider, large breasts can’t help but chafe – making them more prone to uncomfortable rashes. Rashes between and underneath the breasts are common for women with very large breasts. This can be extremely uncomfortable, especially in warm climates. Women who experience this chronic skin irritation are also more likely to develop an infection.