How long does it take for the approval process?

Congratulations on your decision to proceed with breast reduction surgery; this operation tends to be one of the most patient pleasing operations we perform. You will find that the answer to your question will differ from one plastic surgeons practice to another and from one health insurance company to another as well. Your plastic surgeon's office will likely be able to provide you with an update. Best wishes.

Every insurance plan has their own unique criteria on whether they will
cover a breast reduction. Approval times vary significantly. More and more, we are seeing plans where a
breast reduction is not a covered benefit. If it is a covered benefit,
some insurance plans set a minimum required amount of tissue to be
remove in order to met their threshold for coverage. Some set the amount
in relation to your BMI (height and weight). Others require extensive
medical records documenting neck pain, back pain, and history of rashes.
The other alternative is to opt for a breast reduction as a self-pay
option. Start by visiting with a board certified plastic surgeon to
learn more about your options.Best wishes,Dr. BasuHouston, TX

It is a process that is different with each insurance company.  Some can approve with a phone call, and some need multiple records from several doctors and some want 6 months of notes from back specialists.