Covered breast reduction in British Columbia - is there a size requirement? I have very large breasts. I am a 38-39 I

Question

Iam scared I will go too small if I Opt for a free reduction. I have been working with my doctor for a few years on back issues. A een multiple chiropractors etc and I've even shrunk 1. I don't have indents as I just opted not to wear a bra.been told a free reduction they just remove breast tissue and do no lift and they require I go down to a b cup. also don't think they need to go that small?How much of that information is true?I have an appointment with my GP to start the process.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about the problems you are experiencing secondary to breast hypertrophy; based on your description you may be an excellent candidate for breast reduction surgery at some point.  “Official” recommendations of course would necessitate in-person consultation.

Breast reduction surgery is one of the most patient pleasing operations we perform. By removing “excess” breast tissue, adipose tissue, and breast skin this operation reduces AND lifts the breasts to a higher position on the chest wall (in other words, the breasts are "automatically" lifted when a breast reduction is performed). By doing so, patients often find very rapid improvement in neck, back, and shoulder discomfort and find it easier to form their activities of daily living and exercise.

Unfortunately, online consultants will not be able to predict, with any degree of certainty/accuracy, whether your insurance company will authorize the procedure.  Either direct contact with your insurance company or with the help of your plastic surgeons office, will give you more precise information.  Generally speaking, obtaining insurance coverage for breast reduction surgery will likely involve 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 letters/pictures from your plastic surgeon will help you obtain authorization. Prepare to be persistent when dealing with health insurance companies.

When the time is right, seek consultation with well-trained/experienced board-certified plastic surgeons. Ask to see lots of examples of their work and communicate your goals clearly.

I hope this, and the attached link, helps. Best wishes as you work towards your goals.

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. You need to discuss with your plastic surgeon the details of your insurance coverage. Each insurance is different in what they require. Depending on your expectations and goals, your plastic surgeon should be able to tell you whether you can achieve those goals and still meet the requirements of the insurance. Best of luck!

Colin White, MD · Answer

Hello cgislason,
You don't need shoulder indentation to justify having a breast reduction. With most breast reduction techniques a breast lift is performed as part of the surgery. There is no "requirement" to decease in size. 
Hope this helps,

Covered breast reduction in British Columbia - is there a size requirement? I have very large breasts. I am a 38-39 I

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Covered breast reduction in British Columbia - is there a size requirement? I have very large breasts. I am a 38-39 I

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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