Breast augmentation is one of the most popular plastic surgeries today. In a society where busty women are the idea, implants are becoming increasing common. However, women with small chests are not the only ones going to the cosmetic surgeons these days. For some people a breast enhancement procedure can actually translate into a breast reduction.

Having overly large breasts can cause scores of problems among which are terrible back and neck pain from the strain of extra weight in the front. The issue can also lead to bad posture, painful grooves over the shoulders from the pressure of bra straps, and rashes underneath the breasts from sweat and friction.

Beyond these physical concerns, a massive chest can make it very difficult for a woman to find well-fitting bras and clothing and it can even contribute to low self-confidence in some cases, as large boobs become a target for jokes and make women self-conscious about their appearance.

In light of all these related problems, it is no surprise that breast reduction procedures are on the rise. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, there were 106,791 such operations in 2007, a 25 percent increase since the year 2000.

There are several considerations to contemplate before ones undergoes reduction surgery. Age is an important factor. Typically, it is not recommended that women have the procedure before they turn 20 years old as the bust may not be fully developed before that point. There are some exceptions made though, when teenage girl experience severe emotional and social trauma from overly large breasts.

Women are also encouraged to wait for the surgery until after they are done having children as the breast tissue can dramatically change during pregnancy and breast-feeding. The results are much more satisfying and long-lasting when the child-bearing days are behind the patient.

Another consideration is whether or not the surgery will be covered by the insurance. Although reduction surgery is often considered a "cosmetic" procedure, it can actually be a medically necessary event and some insurance companies recognize that fact and will pay at least part of the cost. Paying for reduction surgery privately will cost somewhere in the range of $5000 to $10,0000.

Breast reduction candidates may also be required to get mammogram tests before the surgery to check for cancer and other issues. Additionally, patients will need to stop smoking at least two weeks pre-surgery, if not more. Nicotine in the system keeps the body's blood from flowing as smoothly as possible, making the recovery period more difficult as blood has a harder time getting to the wound site to heal it.

After the reduction surgery has been performed, patients enjoy the benefits of being able to exercise more and participate in more sports and physical activities. Another great result of the procedure for many is that they experience better sleep and breathing. And last, but certainly not least, breast reduction patients often gain greater self-confidence that helps them function better all around in their daily lives.