Is 500 grams of tissue a lot? I’m currently a 36DDD with one side being larger.

Question

Based on my insurance requirements, the minimum that would need to be removed would be an average of 450grams per breast. I’m currently a 36DDD with one side being larger and spilling over the top. I went for a consult and the doctor made it sound like it was a lot and would put me around a B. Goal is C. I know most doctors don’t like to discuss cup size so I’m not sure if he’s just trying to talk me out of going through insurance. Is this a lot?

Ross Blagg, MD · Answer

Hello,500 grams is a fairly standard amount to remove with a breast reduction. Most insurance companies require approximately that amount, but it can vary based on your height and weight. If you are unsure I recommend getting an additional consult to compare.All the best!Dr. BlaggAustin, TX

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

At size 36, each 200 grams removed corresponds to 1 cup size change.  If your insurance requires a minimum of 450 grams removed, you would go down 2 cup sizes.  500 grams removed, you would go down 2 1/2 cup sizes.  I recommend The Bellesoma Method to reduce and reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage.  The weight of the breast is transferred to the underlying pectoralis major muscle resulting in pain relief without excessive reduction.  Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation and the ability to breast feed are maintained.Best Wishes,Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the questionOf and congratulations on your decision to proceed with breast reduction surgery; this operation tends to be one of the most patient pleasing operations we perform..
There is no direct correlation between the amount of tissue removed and the ultimate cup size that a patient will wear after breast reduction surgery.  There is simply too much variability among bra cup manufactures to make it a useful metric when it comes to preoperative communication and/or post operative predictions.
 
Before undergoing the breast reduction procedure it will be very important to communicate your size goals with your surgeon (who you should choose very carefully). Most patients wish to achieve enough of a reduction to help with their symptoms while remaining proportionate with the remainder of their torso. 
With the goal of improving communication with my patients I find the use of photographs of “goal” pictures (and breasts that are too big or too small) very helpful. For example, I have found that the use of words such as “natural” or “B or C cup” means different things to different people and therefore prove unhelpful. Also, as you know, cup size varies depending on who makes the bra; therefore, discussing desired cup size may also be inaccurate. 
Once you have communicated your goals carefully, your plastic surgeon will be able to provide you with an estimation of how much tissue will need to be removed, in order to achieve your desired outcome. If you remain in doubt, or concerned, seek additional consultations with well experienced board-certified plastic surgeons in your area.
Best wishes with your breast reduction procedure; hopefully you will be very pleased with the outcome of the procedure performed.

Cain R. Linville, MD, FACS · Answer

500 gm is not a lot in a DDD breast.  You'll probably still be around a C cup, although I never guarantee cup sizes.  It is important to get off the proper amount of breast tissue to get the surgery covered, however.

Is 500 grams of tissue a lot? I’m currently a 36DDD with one side being larger.

Answers (4)

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