Breast reductions: why so expensive, any non-surgical alternatives? (photos)

Question

58 yo. Poor skin elasticity at this point from combo of sun and weight fluctuations. About 30 lbs overweight now. Just recently gained 30 lbs (of 50 lbs lost 14ys ago). At optimum wt., my breasts are a B cup, but sagging. Don't think I'll be able to control my weight as well as I did before. I might be able to lose 15 lbs, but my breasts will still be a C-cup, with more loose skin, and I want a be a B-cup. Suggestions?

Moises Salama, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, the only non-surgical alternative to breast reduction is weight loss. Breast reduction surgery can sometimes be covered by medical insurance if the breasts are large enough to cause other complications. Price of the surgery is dictated by the area you live in, some areas are much more expensive than others. Many practices do offer financing so that is another option to consider.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

A breast reduction performed by liposuction can reduce the size of the breast a moderate amount, but the procedure will not lift the breasts.   If you want a substantial reduction or desire a lift as well, then the excisional procedures should be performed. Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Wayne I. Yamahata, MD · Answer

Your photos suggest that to achieve your goals will require a breast reduction and lift. The costs are typically dictated by the difficulty and time required to perform the procedures. Thus the costs by board certified plastic surgeons are generally consistent in a specific geographic area. You can generally obtain ballpark estimates by calling surgeons offices.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear 55 and counting,
based on your photos, it looks like you might need breast reduction. Breast reduction is best suited for women who wish to decrease the size of their breasts. While there are different techniques used to perform this surgery, I prefer the vertical incision (lollipop pattern) breast reduction technique instead of the anchor scar pattern, which reduces more noticeable scarring than usual. I also use a SAFE liposuction technique to reduce additional fat around the stubborn axilla area and bra line. This way, my patients are achieving beautiful results with minimal incisions which reduces downtime and delivers an overall better breast shape long term.
If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Matthew A. DelMauro, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello! Thank you for your question. The ability to perform procedures other than a surgical reduction depends on the amount of fat that is present in your breasts and the quality of the breast skin. If there is minimal fat or poor-quality skin, liposuction (and other minimally invasive or non-invasive procedures) are likely to be of little benefit. Additionally, if there is any breast sagging, these techniques are likely to be of little benefit. 
Based on your photos, breast reduction surgery may be a good option to improve the shape, contour, and perkiness of your breasts. The surgery can be designed to minimize the scar appearance. 
Keep in mind that if you decide to pursue surgery it’s very important that you find a surgeon whom you are comfortable with and trust and who evaluates you in-person, addresses your concerns, and tailors an individualized treatment plan for you and your aesthetic goals. Best of luck!
Matthew A. DelMauro, M.D.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.

Besides significant weight loss (if relevant), there is no nonsurgical method to reduce breast size. I would not recommend the use of any medications, herbs, creams, "miracle technology"… that you may find heavily marketed. Ultimately, breast reduction surgery may be your best option if your breast size remains a concern. 
If you choose to proceed with breast reduction surgery, keys will be: very careful selection of plastic surgeon and careful communication of goals.  Avoid the use of cup sizes as a reference point.
 
What patients may not realize is how much “overhead” is associated with performing good quality and safe elective plastic surgery. In other words, there are significant expenses, outside of surgeons fees, associated with these types of operations.

Plastic surgeons offices can point you in the right correction when it comes to “credit” companies that work with patients seeking surgery.  It is always in patients' best interest to achieve a certain degree of financial stability prior to undergoing elective surgery of any type. Patients should also keep in mind that additional surgery may be necessary in the short or long term, following the primary procedure that is being performed; this additional surgery may be associated out-of-pocket expenses. Again, best to achieve a physical, emotional and financial “stable state” prior to considering elective plastic surgery.

Best wishes.

Jeffrey C. Hamm, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
It is best to be within 15 pounds of your desired body weight when undergoing breast reduction as significant weight fluctuation after surgery will alter the result. A good tool to use is your BMI ( body mass index equals weight in kg. / square of height in meters). You can find BMI calculators on the internet. If your BMI is > 30, the result will be less than optimal and weight loss is recommended. If your BMI is > 35, the operative risk increases. 
The only way to achieve breast reduction is through surgery, which will reduce and reshape the breast after removing excess glandular tissue and loose skin. The cost is due to the fact that it is a major operative procedure and requires an operating facility, an anesthesiologist, recovery room care, and associated equipment such as anesthesia machines, monitors, emergency equipment,  etc.  The surgeon's fee must also be considered. In some circumstances, the procedure is covered by insurance if there are physical manifestations related to breast size. 
I recommend evaluation by a board certified plastic surgeon to determine your candidacy for the procedure.
Best wishes...

Christine Sullivan, MD (retired) · Answer

Breast reduction surgery is probably your best option to achieve your goal. My best advice is to find a board certified plastic surgeon in your geographical area.  Schedule an evaluation to learn more about the benefits and risks of breast reduction surgery. When choosing a surgeon remember that most reputable surgeons in any geographical area are in the same general price range. Good plastic surgeon is not inexpensive but if you want change it is your best option. Best wishes!

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