Am I a Good Candidate for a Breast Reduction?

I am 19, and have been suffering from heavy, sagging breasts with nipples that point down since I was about 14. I am 5'4", and around 200 pounds. My bra size is a 38 DDD. They chafe underneath my breasts, and my bra straps dig in. I have scoliosis and hypolordosis. Finding bras and swim suits are impossible, and exerciseis EXCRUCIATING. I love being active, but my large chest makes it painful. unwanted whistling and attention makes me really self-conscious.Can I get insurance being overweight?

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4 Doctor Answers | Asked by haley_qrt

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Alternative technique to the traditional Wise pattern

Breast reductions are authorized by insurance companies based on 2 criteria. First, you must have symptoms related to the large breasts such as neck, back and shoulder pain or rashes. Second, you must have to amount removed that meets their criteria. The criteria is based on your height and weight. At 5'4 and 200 lbs your body surface area is 2.02 meters squared. If your insurance was Aetna, they would require 965 gram removal. At size 38 each 200 grams... more

Breast reduction candidate?

Based on your symptoms it seems you would be a good candidate for breast reduction. A call to your insurance company will help determine if it's a covered benefit under your policy and any restrictions they have associated with the surgery. By visiting a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon you'll be able to learn more about the procedure including risks and benefits. Your surgeon can also assist you in exploring your benefit coverage. Good luck!

Mennen T. Gallas, MD

8 reviews

Houston Plastic Surgeon

Breast reduction

I am so sorry you are living with these large breasts. Yes, your symptoms make you a good candidate for breast reduction. Insurance usually will cover breast reduction - every policy is different. Call your insurer to find out what you need to do, if anything, to qualify for surgery. large breasts can make exercise impossible, making weight control difficult. Many breast reduction patients become more active after surgery and lose weight. if... more

Good Candidate for Breast Reduction?

I'm sorry to hear about the problems you have experienced secondary to disproportionately large breasts since you were very young. Based on your description, it is clear that you have suffered both from the physical and psychosocial stamp point. Also, based on your description it is clear that you may be an excellent candidate for breast reduction surgery at some point; it will be in your best interests to drop weight first. Doing so will help decrease the risks... more