Is it normal to see a orthopedist for breast reduction? 5'3, 153 pounds with a size 34i breast.

Question

Is it normal for my pcp wanting me to see a orthopedist before writing me a letter of support for breast reduction. My back hurts due to the weight for my breast i am 5'3 153 pounds with a size 34i breast..

Scott C. Lindsay, DO · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.
Most Insurance companies want documentation from various Physicians. They want to see if you have explored other areas to relieve the pain, shoulder grooving, rashes, etc. So yes, it is a good idea to see an orthopedic doctor. Best wishes!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Insurance companies have various criteria that have to be met before they approve for a breast reduction.  This may include seeing specialists to see if other interventions other than a breast reduction will improve your symptoms.  Your PCP may be "building a case" to give you the best chance for approval.

Erik Miles, MD, FACS · Answer

Insurance companies have come up with restrictive prerequisites for breast reduction coverage.  Documentation of symptoms related to your large breast size, and conservative attempts to relieve those symptoms are typically required.  This can be done in a variety of ways. Some people use physical therapist or chiropractor treatments. Orthopedist records might be helpful as well.  Keep in mind that a letter of support is typically useless and not part of the criteria.  Generally speaking, treatment records are the only supportive documentation that insurance companies consider.

Finny George, MD · Answer

Hi, thank you for sharing your question. Given that you have back pain, it may not be related to your heavy breasts and your primary doctor may want to rule out other causes. This is not uncommon.

Christopher Pannucci, MD, MS · Answer

Hi pardeepxkaur,
Some insurances will require evaluations from your primary care doctor, physical therapist, and/or a chiropractor before authorizing a breast reduction surgery. A referral to an orthopedic surgeon would be uncommon...but if your neck pain seemed out of proportion to neck pain from large breasts, or if you were having symptoms concerning for a nerve impingement at the spine level, your primary doctor might refer you to an orthopedic spine surgeon.
Best of luck,Christopher Pannucci MDBoard Certified Plastic SurgeonPlastic Surgery NorthwestSpokane, Washington

Is it normal to see a orthopedist for breast reduction? 5'3, 153 pounds with a size 34i breast.

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Answer: Breast reduction

Answer: Breast reduction

Answer: Back pain can have many causes

Answer: Back pain can have many causes

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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Is it normal to see a orthopedist for breast reduction? 5'3, 153 pounds with a size 34i breast.

Answers (8)

Answer: Breast reduction

Answer: Breast reduction

Answer: Back pain can have many causes

Answer: Back pain can have many causes

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.