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Is it Safe to have a Second Breast Reduction?

asked 1 year ago by New York1988 in New York, NY
Latest answer by Tom J. Pousti, MD
Question viewed 437 times
Tags: age 18-24, breasts, female

I had a breast reduction at 18, I weigh 115, 5'6 and my breasts went from a double/triple D to a C after the surgery. However about 4 years later, they are an uncomfortable double D again. The surgery also left one almost a cup size larger then the other. I also used to have scoliosis and had an operation to reverse it at 14 so posture is a life long health concern for me. I want to have a 2nd breast reduction but would my insurance (medicaid) pay for it again? Also would I be a good candidate?

8 answers to Is it Safe to have a Second Breast Reduction?

Repeat Breast Reduction?

Thank you for the question. It is not unusual for patients to request further breast reduction after having had the 1st breast reduction at a young age. One of the concerns when repeating breast reduction surgery is related to blood flow to the remaining breast tissue; is important to perform the operation in such a fashion that the blood flow to the nipple/areola/breast tissue is not compromised. The part of the tissue that is left in place after... more

Tom J. Pousti, MD
San Diego Plastic Surgeon

Second breast reduction

On rare occasion, I have had to repeat a second breast reduction in similar circumstances (multiple years after the initial reduction). Once key concern is the neurovascular supply to the nipple. This can be compromised in a secondary procedure and lead to loss, partial or complete, of the nipple and areola. It is in your best interest to provide your current surgeon with copies of your initial operative report to minimize this risk. One possibility is the use of liposuction if... more

Otto Joseph Placik, MD
Chicago Plastic Surgeon

I would think that you certainly are a good candidate for further breast reduction procedure

I would think that you certainly are a good candidate for further breast reduction procedure, particularly to try and improve the different sizes between your breasts and decrease them both evenly. It's often impossible to get the breasts exactly the same particularly if you do have a scoliosis but certainly it would be possible to have attempt to make them more even.

Adrian Richards, MD
London Plastic Surgeon

A Second Breast Reduction Surgery (Secondary Reduction Mammoplasty)

While repeat breast reduction surgery is not common, it is sometimes be necessary. It is more likely for a woman having had breast reduction surgery at a young age. A young woman tends to want to preserve more fullness, may not be completely developed and has a longer life expectancy during which the breast may further enlarge. The safest way to have a second breast reduction is to see your original surgeon. They have the best chance of knowing where the preserved blood supply is... more

Joseph Mele, MD
Walnut Creek Plastic Surgeon

Medicaid and breast reduction

The best way to figure out if medicaid will cover your breast reduction is by calling them to find out their requirements.

Steven Wallach, MD
Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

Second Breast Reduction

Both of the previous posters are correct. A second reduction is a very difficult operation because the blood supply to the flaps and nipple/areolar are in question. A very wide pedicle is needed. Plus the uneven size adds to the degree of difficulty. As for medicaid covering the operation, my guess is NO but you can investigate it. Best of luck from MIAMI Dr. Darryl J. Blinski, 305 598 0091

Darryl J. Blinski, MD
Miami Plastic Surgeon

Second Breast Reduction Difficult, But Not Impossible

It is often difficult to have a second breast reduction. The reason is that there can be alot of scar tissue in place and the blood supply to the nipple/areola may be unknown. In these situations, it is critical to have the old operative report or go back to the original surgeon. The operative report can tell your surgeon where the blood supply was based the first time so he/she can plan appropriately. Whether yur insurance covers it again is another matter... more

Christopher V. Pelletiere, MD
Barrington Plastic Surgeon

Breast reduction the second time

Breast reduction the second time is safe, although the risk of nipple sensory loss is greater, and there may be an increased risk of nipple loss due to poor circulation to the tissue. Still with care the risk is managable and you may be a candidate for further reduction. There may be a university program in your area able to help you. Best of luck, peterejohnsonmd

Peter E. Johnson, MD
Chicago Plastic Surgeon

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