Breast Reduction: Q&A

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Is a Breast Reducttion Right for Me? 38D

I am a 38D in bra size. I am 24 5'6" and weigh 160. I have back problems. I am wondering if a breast reduction is something I should consider and if Blue Cross Blue Shield Insurance will cover it. I have a hard time finding comfortable bras that support well because of this size.

9 Doctor Answers | Asked by Cotton1986 in Opp, AL
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Breast Reduction Candidate?

Thank you for the question. Based on your description you may be a good candidate for breast reduction surgery; it Is one of the most patient pleasing operations we perform. The best way to obtain insurance coverage for breast reduction surgery involves some “hoops” to jump through. The more documentation you have (for example, from your primary care doctor, physical therapist, chiropractor etc.) the better when it comes to obtaining insurance “authorization”... more
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Options for slightly enlarged breasts

You should meet with a surgeon to discuss if you are a candidate and meet the criteria for breast reduction. Other options such as liposuction may be an alternative for mild degrees of breast overgrowth with less scarring, recovery AND expense.
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Breast reductions may or may not be covered by insurance

Insurance companies are all different in how they determine coverage of a breast reduction.  For example, many Blue Cross plans require a certain amount of tissue to be removed based upon your weight.  For some Aetna plans, photos are required along with supporting documentation from several physicians claiming that the large breast size is a cause of neck and back pain.  So, the best way to determine whether or not you insurance plant will cover your breast reduction is... more

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Is breast redustion right for me?

This will depend on several factors. Your reduction will have to be determined medically necessary. You will need evidence to back that up for example back, neck, or shoulder pain, indentations from your bra straps, skin irritation underneath your breasts, restriction of physical activity due to the weight and size of your breasts, etc. It will also depend on the amount of breast tissue that is removed. Every insurance is different, but you can always check with your specific insurance... more
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Breast reduction

If you have symptoms of back pain and neck pain related to your large breasts, then a reduction may help improve your symptoms. AS for insurance you should check with your company to see if they would cover it.
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Breast reduction and back pain

One simple test to see if a breast reduction will help your back pain is to cradle your breasts in your arms when you have the pain and see if the pain goes away. While weight of the resected breasts is often a relative if not absolute criterion of insurance coverage, it reality it is the physical signs and symptoms that should be relieved. Whatever you can do to document the pain and its subsequent relieve will help in making a case.
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Insurance May Cover

Breast reductions can be covered by insurance.  It takes pre-approval through the Blue Cross process.  First, you should seek evaluation of your back through your primary care or a back specialist.  After that, seek out a board-certified plastic surgeon who can review  your history, perform an exam and forward the necessary information to your insurance company.  You can then proceed with your plans based on your insurance companies response.  If your... more
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38D Breast Reduction

You are on the borderline for whether or not a breast reduction would be covered by insurance.  You would have to be willing to go to a B cup in order to have any chance.  You should seek a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area who should be able to assist you.
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38D likely won't be a reduction covered by insurance

At 160 pounds, a 38D isn't that big so it would be unlikely that insurance would cover a reduction especially since they generally require about a pound removed per side.  It doesn't mean you can't have a nice reduction, just that it will not be paid for by insurance.
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These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.

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