I am 5'2", weigh168 lbs (currently losing more weight), and a 38DD-40DD. Am I a good candidate for Breast Reduction Surgery?

Question

I am 5'2", weigh 168 lbs (I am currently losing more weight), and a 38DD-40DD in breast size. I suffer from back pain, indentations in my shoulders from my bra, and am not able to sleep (I am assuming this is from the general uncomfortableness of my large breast size). I am currently looking into getting a breast reduction surgery and I am wondering if I am a good candidate for it (the idea I have in mind is a 36C breast size). I am also wondering what type of reduction technique would be best.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Since your breasts are very large (38DD-40DD) and you are
having back pain, you are certainly a candidate for breast reduction and I
recommend a new technique called The Ultimate Breast ReductionTM.  This technique reshapes your breast tissue
creating upper pole fullness, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more
medial to increase your cleavage.  The
breasts can be reduced to the size proportionate to your body and you do not
have to undergo excessive reduction.  Pain
is relieved by transferring the weight of the breast to the underlying
muscle.  The traditional technique uses
an anchor shaped incision, which results in ugly vertical scars, nipple
numbness and the inability to breast feed. 
This technique eliminates those complications and results in beautiful
breasts.Best Wishes,Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Craig S. Rock, MD, FACS · Answer

Based upon your description and photo, you may be an excellent candidate for breast reduction.  I always recommend that patients wait until they have achieved their long-term weight goal (if possible) prior to undergoing breast reduction, as weight loss after surgery may result in your final breast size being either smaller or larger than you desire when compared to the rest of your body.   If your bras are sized correctly, breast reduction does not change the size of the bra band (eg. 36, 38), the number primarily changes with changes in body weight.Which breast reduction technique would be best is determined by your pre-operative breast anatomy (size, shape, nipple position, etc.), desired post-operative appearance, as well as the experience of your plastic surgeon.  I would recommend consulting with board-certified plastic surgeons experienced at performing breast reductions, who will be able to guide you regarding the best timing and treatment options for you.Best wishes.

Jeffrey Ditesheim, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear Kaitline,   A few pieces of information that will be helpful to you:1. The pain and discomfort from large breasts is gone forever once you have a breast reduction procedure.  In over 400 women who I have cared for, every woman has had immediate relief of her discomfort.2. Losing weight is always a complicated process including knowing what is the "right weight" and being able to maintain that weight in the future.  What women tell me is that they are able to exercise with greater ease and confidence once the uncomfortable large breasts are dealt with ( with surgery).3. Some women will lose in their breasts with weight loss, others not.  If you don't lose in your breasts, then waiting to lose weight may just be frustrating.4. There are many techniques and they are different.  Most surgeons use the anchor technique that will create a scar both vertical from nipple to crease and horizontal from cleavage to under armpit.  This is a very common technique that will reduce the size of the breasts.  An alternative technique that I have used for over 15 years is what is called a lollipop or vertical approach.  This is more of a shaping technique, that removed breast tissue from the sides and the bottom ( hanging breast) and creates a smaller but more shapely breast.  There are many examples of women I have cared for with this approach on  RealSelf.5. Size, Yes a 36C may be a very reasonable expectation.  At a consultation, I will help you with a plan that will be right for your breasts and your body.

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

You would be a good candidate for a anchor type breast reduction.  It would be best for your to consider a reduction when you have achieved a stable weight.  Your goals seem reasonable and you should get symptomatic relief from your back, neck and shoulder pain.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Based on your description and picture you may be a excellent candidate for breast reduction surgery at some point; you are correct in that it will be in your best interest to drop  additional weight first.
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” for the procedure.
This documentation and letter/pictures from your plastic surgeon will help you obtain authorization. Make sure you are seeing a well-trained/experienced board-certified plastic surgeons.  Ask to see lots of examples of their work.
When dealing with health insurance companies, be prepared to be persistent.  In the end it will be worth it;  breast reduction surgery tends to be one of the most patient pleasing operations we perform.
 The first step would bein-person consultation with well experienced board certified plastic surgeons.  Ask to see lots of examples of their work and make sure you feel comfortable with the quality and consistency of the work performed. During these consultations, you may be able to see other patients ( similar to yourself) who have undergone breast reduction surgery.
Ultimately,  you will need to decide whether the “pros” ( benefits) of breast reduction surgery outweigh the potential “cons” ( potential risk/complications).  You may find the attached link helpful to you as you educate yourself about the pros/cons of the breast reduction procedure.
I would suggest that you communicate your goals clearly with your plastic surgeon and make sure that you have realistic expectations prior to proceeding with any type of surgery. In regards to breast size desired, also communicate carefully. In my practice the use of goal pictures are helpful in this regard; a discussion of cup size can be confusing and imprecise.   Therefore, I would not suggest that you communicate your goals and/or base your satisfaction with the outcome of surgery on achieving a specific cup size.I also find that the use of pictures is more helpful than the words “natural” or "proportionate” etc., which can mean different things to different people.Many of my patients choose to have enough breast tissue removed to help alleviate symptoms while retaining enough breast tissue to remain proportionate to the remainder of  bare torso. Again, preoperative communication will be critical.Best wishes.

I am 5'2", weigh168 lbs (currently losing more weight), and a 38DD-40DD. Am I a good candidate for Breast Reduction Surgery?

Answers (5)

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