Patients who present for breast reduction are usually bothered by a sense of disproportion due to their large breast size and a host of symptoms such as back and neck pain, chest heaviness, shoulder pain or deep bra-strap indentions. They may also experience difficulty exercising or being fitted for clothing or lingerie, and may feel very self-conscious due to their breast size. Breast reduction may alleviate all of these symptoms and lead to increased self-esteem and self-confidence in one's appearance.

Since patients achieve both cosmetic and functional improvement through breast reduction, the procedure may be covered by insurance in most cases. Most insurance companies require that at least 350 grams of tissue (approximately three quarters of a pound) be removed at the time of the surgery from each side or the procedure may be considered more cosmetic than functional (in other words, a breast lift) and coverage would be denied.  At this time, Dr. Samuels does not participate with insurance..

Good candidates for a breast reduction should be nonsmokers who are not planning a significant weight loss prior to the procedure. Smoking can significantly delay healing or cause poor scarring, and weight loss can cause breast sagging or loss of the lifted effect of the breast reduction. Smoking should be stopped at least six to eight weeks prior to the surgery to ensure the best healing capacity.