I'm 5'0, 94 Lbs, 32DDD Bra. Reduction? (photo)

Question

All research I have done says insurance requires doctors to take 1,000cc. I'm very tiny, 1,000cc would leave me flat. Do they not take body to breast ratio into account? I'm too skinny to lose weight (BMI 18.8). Also, when will procedures without the scars become the general technique for reduction? Is it possible to lift without an implant?

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and pictures.

	At some point you may be an excellent candidate for a small breast reduction/lifting operation.

	As you know,   one of the downsides associated with breast lifting surgery is the necessity of additional incisions/scars.  For some patients the necessity of additional scars is a “dealbreaker” ; for these patients it is better to avoid breast surgery altogether.
	 

	On the other hand, many patients (if properly selected and who are doing the operations at the right time of their lives  psychosocially) accept the scars associated with breast augmentation/breast lifting surgery as long as they are happy with the improvement in contour, size, and symmetry. This acceptance of the scars is the essential “trade-off” associated with many of the procedures we do in the field of plastic surgery.
	 

	When the time is right,  I would suggest that you select your plastic surgeon carefully. Ask to see lots of examples of their work and communicate your goals clearly.

	 Best wishes.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

If you are not having symptoms related to your large breasts, I do not think you necessarily need a reduction.  A lift can always be performed without an implant.  However, removal of skin will require scars to manipulate the breast tissue higher.  Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

Ronald A. Lohner, MD · Answer

Coverage for breast reduction varies greatly by region, insurance companies, and even different insurance policies within the same insurance company!  Most dictate a required resection weight based on either BMI (body mass index) or BSA  (body surface area).  Some require proof of symptoms and history of conservative treatment as well.  Breast reduction utilizing specialized liposuction techniques (ie Vaser) can be attempted, but increased breast density in younger patients do not always allow for adequate tissue removal. Sorry, no lifts without incisions.... yet!

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question and posted photo. In some cases depending upon the health insurance company exceptions are made to amounts needed to be removed, though VERY rarely. You need to be your own advocate and start a dialogue with your insurance company. Good luck. Also be sure you understand the risks of scars in reduction.

Thomas P. McHugh, MD · Answer

There are insurance companies that use 500 grams as the least amount you have to remove but over the years this has increased to 800 grams and now 1000 grams.  In looking at your picture I feel that 1000 grams would leave you flat.  A breast lift does not mean you have to have an implant.  Many women choose to have an implant with a lift but it is not a requirement.  Insurance companies generally do not take into account your BMI but the absolute weight of the tissue removed.  The individuals making the decisions at most insurance companies are not physicians but nurses who use a checklist to qualify your surgery.

I'm 5'0, 94 Lbs, 32DDD Bra. Reduction? (photo)

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I'm 5'0, 94 Lbs, 32DDD Bra. Reduction? (photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: I'm 5'0, 94 Lbs, 32DDD Bra. Reduction?

Answer: I'm 5'0, 94 Lbs, 32DDD Bra. Reduction?

Answer: Breast Reduction and weight

Answer: Breast Reduction and weight

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.