36DD, Too Small for a Reduction?

Question

Hi, I am 5'7" and 180lbs. I'm currently experiencing pain and posture problems related to my bust. I want to consider a reduction but I am only a 36DD. Is this too small for doctors and insurance to recommend a reduction? How would I go about starting the process for a reduction?

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

You may very well qualify, it really will depend on the guidelines of your insurance company. Most require 500 grams from each breast needs to be removed to qualify, and that usually equates to a DD cup. They usually want documented information as to what you have tried so far, such a good support bras, physical therapy, analgesics, etc. Seek out a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon that specializes in breast reduction surgery, and your surgeon will be able to help you obtain authorization. Good luck.

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

Every insurance company uses its own criteria for determining if a breast reduction is medically necessary. The symptoms most women experience from large breasts are back, neck and shoulder pain along with indentations on the shoulders from the bra straps. Headaches, rashes under the breast and sometimes tingling or numbness of the little finger from compression of the nerves as they exit the lower neck. During an examination by an experienced plastic surgeon an accurate history and physical examination will be performed. Part of that examination includes an estimate of the amount of breast tissue to be removed. Most insurance companies use a sliding scale based on your height and weight to determine how much breast tissue should be removed. All of this information is then sent to the insurance company in the form of a pre-approval letter. The first step is to have a consultation with a plastic surgeon.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Breast reduction may be performed in your circumstance but an exam and history would be essential. As for your insurance "covering" it, you will have to check to see what their criteria are.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Difficult to give you good advice without direct examination or viewing pictures. Regardless of your cup size, you may be a good candidate for breast lifting and/or breast reduction surgery. Much will depend upon your physical examination and your goals.

	 Best to start with consultation with board-certified plastic surgeons. Ask to see lots of examples of that work and communicate your goals clearly.  Your plastic surgeon will be able to give you a better idea of whether the procedure will be potentially covered through health insurance. Also best to be accurate long-term stable weight prior to undergoing breast surgery.

	 You may find the attached link helpful to you as you learn more about breast lifting/reduction surgery.

	 Best wishes.

36DD, Too Small for a Reduction?

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