Do I need a breast reduction?

Question

I wear a 38H bra size. My underbust measurement is 37 inches and my bust measurement, at the fullest part, is 45 inches. There is an 8 inch difference between my underbust and bust measurement. Do I need a breast reduction?

Robert Cohen, MD · Answer

You need a formal evaluation by a licensed plastic surgeon and expert in breast reductions to determine what is best for you and your goals.Breast reduction is one of my favorite surgeries as it allows me to dramatically improve a woman’s breast appearance as well as alleviate many physical symptoms of large breasts, such as back, neck and shoulder pain, bra strap grooving, and rashes under the breasts. When I perform breast reduction surgery, I generally use a superomedial pedicle to provide blood supply to the nipple while maintaining fullness in the upper and inner breast. Excess lower and outer breast tissue are removed. Breasts are often asymmetrical, so I remove more tissue from the larger breast. The final scar pattern is a circle around the areola, down the breast, and possibly under the breast, depending on the degree of skin excess.
For me, breast reduction is not a one-size-fits-all surgery. The size and shape of the breasts are customized to each patient depending on her goals and desires. Some women want a significant amount of tissue removed while others prefer to have a more limited reduction. Regardless of the amount of tissue removal, I perform the maximum safe amount of lifting and tightening for each patient.
I suggest consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon and expert in Breast Reductions. - Dr. Cohen

Jeff Angobaldo, MD · Answer

Hello and thanks for your question. Do you feel like your breasts are too large? Are they causing you discomfort? Do you have any back or neck issues related to the size of your breast? Each bra company vary in sizes. What is a 34 D at one manufacturer may be completely different than another. If you are wanting to reduce the size of your breasts I would talk with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss all of the available options, risks, and requirements for that particular surgery.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Bra sizes vary by manufacturer so no conversion table exists where one can interpolate the appropriate bra size with the data you have provided.  A BMI of 35 is probably the upper limit that a plastic surgeon would consider for a BR. It is best to be within 10 pounds of your goal weight for six months prior to your surgery.  This reduces the risks of complications during and after surgery and enhances results. A PS cannot guarantee that a breast will be a specific cup size after reduction.  Very large breasts rarely are reduced by more than two or three "cup" sizes. Going too small can sacrifice the shape of the breasts.  The nipple has to have a blood supply to survive from the underlying tissue. Schedule a Skype consult with photos or an in-office exam with a board certified PS who has before and after photos on his/her website and patient reviews.  This is the most efficient way to have all your concerns addressed.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear B4376,
breast reduction is an elective procedure so there is no real measurements which determine the candidates for surgery. If your breasts cause you pain or discomfort, then you might be a candidate for a surgery. 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 breast reduction surgery, you should consult with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options and make sure your surgeon understands your goals. 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

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

This is a question for the individual as this is an elective procedure. There is no standardized cup size to body size correlation.Candidates for reduction will typically have documented evidence of neck/back and shoulder pain as well as rashes and bra strap grooving attributable to the increased breast weight. They will often demonstrate that these symptoms have been resistant to more conservative measures like therapy, weight loss and pharmacologic intervention.
In addition to establishing a case for medical necessity, there are also requirements for resection weight (when covered by insurance). This may be a standard "500 gm per side" stipulation or a more variable standard based upon body surface area/Schnur scale. It is important to realize that these weight requirements can occasionally exceed your goals for size reduction. Insurance coverage is contingent on these requirements being met, thus cosmetic concerns become secondary(i.e. cup size goals).
As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).
Donovan Rosas MD
Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member: American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
RealSelf Top 100
RealSelf Hall of Fame

Do I need a breast reduction?

Answers (9)

Answer: Breast reduction

Answer: Breast reduction

Answer: Do I need a reduction?

Answer: Do I need a reduction?

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.

Do I need a breast reduction?

Answers (9)

Answer: Breast reduction

Answer: Breast reduction

Answer: Do I need a reduction?

Answer: Do I need a reduction?

Browse related questions

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.