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Breast Reduction Asked 2021-06-20

Would I be a good candidate for breast reduction surgery? I am 138 pounds, 5'3, and my bra size is a 30DDD. How much fat do you think would get removed and do you think my insurance would cover it?

2 answers Procedure(s) Breast Reduction Dr. Steven J. Clark, MD, DMD, FACS Request Consultation Answered 2021-06-27

BASED ON YOUR DESCRIPTION OF WEIGHT /HEIGHT AND BREAST VOLUME/SIZE.IT SOUNDS LIKE YOU WOULD BE A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR REDUCTION MAMMOPLASTY OR BREAST REDUCTION. OTHER IMPORTANT FACTORS WOULD BE THAT YOU DO NOT SMOKE OR VAPE WITH NICOTINEAND AER GENERALLY IN GOOD PHYSICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL HEALTH.BREAST TISSUE REMOVAL ESTIMATION AND SURGICAL TECHNIQUE IS MORE ACCURATELY DECIDED ON PHYSICAL EXAM ,ALTHOUGH GENERALLY IT WILL INCLUDE 500-T0 1500 GRAMS .EVERY INSURANCE COMPANY HAS DIFFERENT CRITERIA THEY OFTEN WILL COVER THE SURGERY IF IT IS MEDICALLY NECESSARY -IF THE WEIGHT OF YOUR BREASTS ARE CAUSING NECK AND BACK PAIN , RASHES BRA IMPINGEMENT ETC.

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Thank you for sharing! Large breasts may not only interfere with your physical ability to function in daily activities but can be emotionally burdensome as well. From what you describe you are a candidate for a breast reduction. Breast reduction surgery removes excess breast tissue and reshapes the contour of the breasts so that they are smaller and perkier. It is possible to do a breast reduction with a minimal scar technique and can also be done as an outpatient procedure under twilight sedation. I commonly use a minimal incision technique (Le Jour), eliminating the need for large scars while providing a pleasing breast contour that is proportionate to the patient’s body. Your surgeon knows exactly how much tissue he or she is taking out, because it is weighed after removal. Additionally, breast reduction comes with an added bonus- the removed breast tissue can be sent to the lab and examined by a pathologist for signs of cysts or cancer. And having smaller breasts can take years off your appearance! Breast reduction is usually covered by insurance when the surgery is performed as part of a medically mandated procedure to treat neck, back, or shoulder pain or other problems related to the spine, which sounds like your situation. Recently, managed care has adopted stricter standards for coverage, so just make sure these problems are thoroughly documented in writing by your primary care physician and plastic surgeon. They may also have to submit photographs. Even then, you may be required to seek a second opinion from a chiropractor, physical therapist, or orthopedic surgeon. It's important to be sure expectations are realistic and you have an understanding of the commitment needed for the healing process. Make sure that you understand the nature of your surgery, the recovery process, and that you feel comfortable to make these changes to your body. I suggest making an appointment with a board certified plastic surgeon who will discuss your options in detail.

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