Excess flab after breast reduction is a common complaint

Christopher W. Chase, MD answers: Excess flab on sides after Breast Reduction

I had Breast Reduction around five years ago, followed by a lot of complicatons (which were fixed by another doctor). Now, I'm concerned about the excess flab on my sides from the surgery. It's really bothersome if i don't put a bra on, or if I wear certian kinds of bra. Are there any procedures for fixing this? If so, is it possible for such procedures to be covered by insurance?


Christopher W. Chase, MD
9 months ago

Many women (particularly those who are overweight) have excess tissue that extends past the  outside of the breasts under the arms as a fold of skin and fat.  This typically lies under the bra strap.

Breast reduction is typically limited to the breast tissue itself and therefore does not involve removing the excess "flab" on the sides.  However,  this "flab" can become more noticeable after breast reduction and is a common complaint after surgery.

Improvement may occur with weight loss and/or time.  Surgical correction may involve liposuction and/or excision of the "flab" which may involve additional scarring. 

Surgical correction is not likely to be covered by insurance as it is basically a different issue from and unrelated to the enlarged breats that were corrected by the breast reduction surgery.

However, in your case, your insurance may cover an additional procedure since you apparently had some post-operative issues related to the reduction.  Your plastic surgeon should be able to advise you in that regard.

Best Wishes!

1 of 1 found this helpful
Helpful?
Post your question
IMPORTANT: As noted in our Terms of Service, the information found on RealSelf.com, including that provided by professionals in the Questions & Answers area, is a general educational aid. The Questions and Answers contain opinions and views created by community members. RealSelf.com is not responsible for the accuracy of any information posted by community members. Do not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical or healthcare advice, or for diagnosis or treatment purposes.