Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Reduction? I Have BCBS and Currently Live in ND.

I'm an 18 year old female, I'm 5'5 and 170 pounds, small frame and have fairly large breasts. Even at my healthy weight at 120 I had large breasts, at about a 36D. I am in the process of losing weight but my back and neck soreness is getting to me. I'm always slouching due to my breasts and they are becoming saggy and I can't stand the extra weight on my chest. I'm wondering if I'm a good candidate for breast reduction? I have BCBS and I currently live in ND

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4 Doctor Answers | Asked by MRG_FGT

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Breast Reduction Candidates

The best candidate for a breast reduction has a combination of disproportionately large breasts and associated symptoms of midscapular back pain, neck pain, bra strap grooving and a recurrent rash beneath the breasts. Breast reduction surgery alleviates these symptoms in the majority of patients. In the hands of a board certified plastic surgeon, patients are usually quite happy with both the cosmetic and functional improvement. In general, the procedure is performed with... more

Breast reduction and insurance

Every insurance company is a bit different regarding coverage for breast reduction surgery. Certainly if you have large breasts, and significant symptoms related to is, then it is very possible. WIthout an exam I could not be sure.

Steven Wallach, MD

12 reviews

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

Insurance coverage for breast reduction

We have to make a distinction between whether you are a good candidate for surgery and whether that surgery will be covered by your insurance company. A D cup would be too small for most carriers at your height and weight and many will require proof of conservative medical treatment prior to approving surgery. If you are losing weight, it would be best to have the surgery after your weight is stable. I also recommend that you see a board certified plastic surgeon who can write a... more

Good Candidate for Breast Reduction Surgery

Thank you for your question. If your large breasts are contributing to your back and neck pain, then you are a good candidate for breast reduction surgery. Each insurance company is different with what they require to "authorize" the breast reduction surgery through insurance. I write a letter and send photos of the patient when trying to get authorization (I am sure most plastic surgeons do this as well). Also getting supporting letters from other doctors who... more