I am a 40H. What is a good size for breast reduction? How much will this alleviate back pain? (photo)

Question

I have severe back pain, including a slipped disc. It is painful doing workouts with my breasts flopping up and down, despite the expensive quality bras. Will insurance cover breast reduction? I have an exercise routine that has helped me to lose over 20lbs, but my breasts don't get any smaller. I was a DD in high school, but I just want to have a bra smaller than my hats. Since having two kids I have excess skin on my arms and abdomen, and want a mommy makeover, but my breasts are top priority.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Breast
reductions are indicated when a woman has symptoms such as neck, back or
shoulder pain and has disproportionate large breasts.At size 40 H, you would certainly meet these
criteria’s.I recommend a new technique
called The Ultimate Breast ReductionTM.Breast tissue is reshaped creating upper pole
fullness, elevated higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your
cleavage.This technique avoids the ugly
vertical scars of the traditional technique, maintains nipple sensation and the
ability to breast feed.The weight of
the breast is transferred to the underlying muscle resulting in immediate pain
relief.Best Wishes,Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Joshua Cooper, MD, FACS · Answer

It sounds like you have had very large breasts since high school, and your large breasts could certainly be contributing to your back pain. Very commonly my patients tell me that their back pain has been resolved, or at least improved a lot, after their breast reduction has been performed.  Certainly, there are many causes for back pain, but large breasts certainly can exacerbate that pain. Insurance will sometimes cover the breast reduction procedure.  Different companies, and different plans, have their own requirements that must be met in order for the procedure to be covered.  Criteria often include: amount of breast tissue that your plastic surgeon estimates he/she can remove in relation to your height and weight and attempts at conservative therapy such as physical therapy or chiropractic therapy. Definitely meet with a board certified plastic surgeon today to find out more!

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. Based on the description, you may be an excellent candidate for breast reduction surgery. This operation tends to be one of the most patient pleasing operations we perform. I am sure that you will be able to find many well-qualified board-certified plastic surgeons in your area to help you with the breast reduction procedure as well as interacting with the health insurance company. I would suggest that you make sure your plastic surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and can demonstrate significant experience and an excellent safety record when it comes to achieving the types of results you are looking for. 
When it comes to obtaining insurance coverage for breast reduction, there will likely be 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” for the procedure.
This documentation and letter/pictures from your plastic surgeon will help you obtain authorization. Remember also when dealing with health insurance companies that you may need to be persistent. Best wishes.

Ross Stutman, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.Many insurance carriers do cover breast reduction surgery when certain criteria are met. Largely, they want to be assured that the reduction is for functional reasons (e.g. back, neck, and/or shoulder pain or to prevent chronic rashes under the breast folds). Most patients do have significant pain reduction after surgery.  I recommend you be seen by a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your particular case.Best Regards,Dr. Stutman

Abhay Gupta, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Hello.I believe breast reduction surgery would be an excellent option for you to help decrease your back and neck pain. Most patients notice a significant reduction in their pain the next day after surgery. Depending on your general health and other medical problems, the surgery can be performed safely as outpatient surgery in a surgery center. Insurance will often cover the cost of a breast reduction procedure but every insurance company is different. I recommend you read your health plan manual carefully to check for inclusion and exclusion criteria regarding breast surgery. To improve your chance of getting the procedure covered, you may need supporting documentation from your primary care physician and physical therapist or chiropractor proving that attempts at non-surgical treatment have been unsuccessful at relieving your back pain. But the letter and pictures your plastic surgeon submits to the insurance company is equally important. I recommend you seek consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon in your area to discuss your treatment options.Good luck!Sincerely, Abhay Gupta, MD.

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