I am about 180 pounds right now, with more fat than am I comfortable with, but primarily the weight of my breasts has become an issue. I am a 40F and I have extreme sagging because of how heavy my breasts are, an due to their weight my back is rounded with neck, upper and lower back pain, and shoulder pain. It is impossible for me to straighten my posture for any length of time. I am curious if with the pictures provided if it is clear whether or not this can be something covered by insurance?
June 2, 2018
Answer: Am I a candidate for a breast reduction/lift? Thank you for the question. I am sorry to hear about the problems your disproportionately large breasts are causing; based on your description, you may be a good candidate for breast reduction surgery. “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. By doing so, patients often find improvement in neck, back, and shoulder discomfort and find it easier to form their activities of daily living and exercise. Best to check directly with your insurance company to see whether breast reduction surgery is a “covered” benefit with your specific policy. Then, given that every insurance company has different “criteria”, best to identify exactly what your specific insurance company considers criteria for approval. Generally, 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. Again, your insurance company will be able to be more specific when it comes to what "hoops" they want you to jump through. Also, for many insurance companies, the closer you are to your long-term ideal weight, the better. This documentation and letter/pictures from your plastic surgeon will help you obtain authorization. Also, prepare to be persistent when dealing with health insurance companies. Best wishes.
Helpful
June 2, 2018
Answer: Am I a candidate for a breast reduction/lift? Thank you for the question. I am sorry to hear about the problems your disproportionately large breasts are causing; based on your description, you may be a good candidate for breast reduction surgery. “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. By doing so, patients often find improvement in neck, back, and shoulder discomfort and find it easier to form their activities of daily living and exercise. Best to check directly with your insurance company to see whether breast reduction surgery is a “covered” benefit with your specific policy. Then, given that every insurance company has different “criteria”, best to identify exactly what your specific insurance company considers criteria for approval. Generally, 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. Again, your insurance company will be able to be more specific when it comes to what "hoops" they want you to jump through. Also, for many insurance companies, the closer you are to your long-term ideal weight, the better. This documentation and letter/pictures from your plastic surgeon will help you obtain authorization. Also, prepare to be persistent when dealing with health insurance companies. Best wishes.
Helpful
Answer: I am 24, 5’5” with 40F breasts. Am I a candidate for a breast reduction/lift? Based on the photo, you will benefit from a breast reduction surgery. Not only because of the aesthetic improvement but also for your overall health. Having the breast reduction surgery will get rid of the excess weight of the breasts and thus relieve the pressure exerted on your back and neck. In this sense a lift is not advisable as it will not relieve the pains you are feeling on the back and the neck. Schedule an appointment with a board-certified plastic surgeon for an in-person examination and a detailed discussion of your surgical options and their benefits.
Helpful
Answer: I am 24, 5’5” with 40F breasts. Am I a candidate for a breast reduction/lift? Based on the photo, you will benefit from a breast reduction surgery. Not only because of the aesthetic improvement but also for your overall health. Having the breast reduction surgery will get rid of the excess weight of the breasts and thus relieve the pressure exerted on your back and neck. In this sense a lift is not advisable as it will not relieve the pains you are feeling on the back and the neck. Schedule an appointment with a board-certified plastic surgeon for an in-person examination and a detailed discussion of your surgical options and their benefits.
Helpful