Will I be able to get a breast reduction at 230 lbs?

Question

Age-21 Weight-230Lbs. Bra size-40H height-5’7 Hi so I started gaining a lot of weight around the time I was going into middle school and for years I’ve had such bad back pain and breathing issues which has always made it hard to loose any weight even though I try to excercise and diet. I’ve also seen specialists and had tests done and everything came up normal wil I be able to because of how much I weigh? And what size cup can I go down to?

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

At 5'7 and 230 lbs, your BMI is 36 which puts you at high risk for complications. An alternative to consider is liposuction of the breasts. This can decrease the mechanical load on your neck, should and back. An appropriate weight for surgery would be 208 lbs. Once you have reached this weight, then you can consider a breast reduction. The technique I recommend is The Bellesoma Method. This will 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 (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear lilyjane663,
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

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It is best if you could lose weight prior to having breast reduction surgery, but it is understandable that this is sometimes a challenge.  You will need to be examined by a board certified plastic surgeon and your medical history reviewed in order to determine if you are a candidate for the procedure at your current weight.

Scott C. Lindsay, DO · Answer

Thanks for your question! Every doctor and office has different BMI requirements that are put in place for patient safety. I would find a qualified surgeon in your area and then find out what their criteria are. Good luck!

Will I be able to get a breast reduction at 230 lbs?

Answers (4)

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