Why did a top Dr. almost refuse to give me a breast reduction because of my BMI? (I am barely overweight, if at all). I got a BR consult from an NYC Dr. and was told that I’m almost too overweight for surgery and that I should lower my BMI >4 points (15-20lbs). Insurance was not the reason as this Dr. doesn’t take it. At 5’3 and a stable 155lbs, I have long been eating clean and healthfully with exercise 2-3 times/week, but not starving myself. This is just how my body is! I’m curious to hear Dr.’s perspective on the use of BMI as it seems unfair and dangerous to tell women like me they need to lose weight
Answer: All surgeons are different Studies have shown that when your BMI is over 30, there are increased risks of infection, wound breakdown, and other complications with surgery. However, I see tons of women who are much larger in Chicago with very large and heavy breasts. It is much more the norm to see patients with BMIs from 30-40 in this region than those who are under 30 seeking out breast reduction. Simply put, larger patients have larger breasts and tend to have more symptoms of heaviness. Even though the complication risk is higher for larger patients, it does not mean these patients will not be HAPPY. You can look at my photos for examples of larger breast reduction patients that were very happy with results. I would get another consult with a couple other board certified plastic surgeons and I am sure you will find someone who is very comfortable working with your size and breasts. Good luck on your journey!Ramsen Azizi M.D.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
Answer: All surgeons are different Studies have shown that when your BMI is over 30, there are increased risks of infection, wound breakdown, and other complications with surgery. However, I see tons of women who are much larger in Chicago with very large and heavy breasts. It is much more the norm to see patients with BMIs from 30-40 in this region than those who are under 30 seeking out breast reduction. Simply put, larger patients have larger breasts and tend to have more symptoms of heaviness. Even though the complication risk is higher for larger patients, it does not mean these patients will not be HAPPY. You can look at my photos for examples of larger breast reduction patients that were very happy with results. I would get another consult with a couple other board certified plastic surgeons and I am sure you will find someone who is very comfortable working with your size and breasts. Good luck on your journey!Ramsen Azizi M.D.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
August 21, 2019
Answer: BMI and surgery Dear littleorb,
Helpful
August 21, 2019
Answer: BMI and surgery Dear littleorb,
Helpful
July 27, 2019
Answer: What is your perspective on the use of BMI to refuse a breast reduction? Congratulations on your decision to proceed with breast reduction surgery; this operation tends to be one of the most patient pleasing operations we perform. I agree with you that specific calculations, including BMI, are not always helpful when it comes to determining a specific patient's suitability to proceed with surgery.
Helpful
July 27, 2019
Answer: What is your perspective on the use of BMI to refuse a breast reduction? Congratulations on your decision to proceed with breast reduction surgery; this operation tends to be one of the most patient pleasing operations we perform. I agree with you that specific calculations, including BMI, are not always helpful when it comes to determining a specific patient's suitability to proceed with surgery.
Helpful
July 26, 2019
Answer: What is your perspective on the use of BMI to refuse a breast reduction? (Photos) At 5'3" and 155 lbs your calculated BMI is 27.5, certainly low enough to have a breast reduction. Having a BMI exceeding 30 increases your chances of complications during and after surgery and decreases the probability of optimal results. Consult with another board certified PS in your geographical area.
Helpful
July 26, 2019
Answer: What is your perspective on the use of BMI to refuse a breast reduction? (Photos) At 5'3" and 155 lbs your calculated BMI is 27.5, certainly low enough to have a breast reduction. Having a BMI exceeding 30 increases your chances of complications during and after surgery and decreases the probability of optimal results. Consult with another board certified PS in your geographical area.
Helpful
July 25, 2019
Answer: BMI with a reduction Hello and thank you for your question! Most plastic surgeons will not perform surgery with a BMI >30-35 due to the complications that can occur after surgery. With a BMI >35 you may not have optimal healing and could alter your results. I personally look at the whole picture. If you are overall healthy and exercise regularly, I would have considered you a good candidate for that particular procedure.
Helpful
July 25, 2019
Answer: BMI with a reduction Hello and thank you for your question! Most plastic surgeons will not perform surgery with a BMI >30-35 due to the complications that can occur after surgery. With a BMI >35 you may not have optimal healing and could alter your results. I personally look at the whole picture. If you are overall healthy and exercise regularly, I would have considered you a good candidate for that particular procedure.
Helpful
