Can "side boob" be removed with a longer anchor scar during a breast reduction? (Photo)

Question

I've read in a few places that insurance will not cover liposuction during a breast reduction, so I'd like to avoid it if possible. However I'm also afraid of that wide breast shape I often see, that extends under the arm. Can this area be addressed well via skin/fat resection in a longer anchor incision? ( I don't mind a longer scar as I have no intention of wearing a string bikini!! ) Also, if that area is cut out is it included in the grams removed for insurance purposes? Thank you!

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.
  
I perform a liposuction breast lift that removes tissue from the areas you don't want such as near the armpit and the lower portion hanging near your stomach. Once I use this to shape the breast I then remove the skin to tighten the breast and create a better shape with nice cleavage. Since I perform this less invasively the recovery time is faster. The size would depend on the proportion with your body versus going for a cup size. It works very well if there are asymmetries. I can also use the removed fat as a natural breast augmentation by grafting the fat back into the breast to create more projection or into the top to create more cleavage. This procedure can also be combined with an implant if needed or wanted.  It should not affect nipple sensation, mammograms, cancer risk or breast-feeding. If you gain or lose weight, the transferred fat can do the same.
  
The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.  Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic plastic surgery.  
  
Best of luck!    
  
Dr. Schwartz 
  
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
  
#RealSelf100Surgeon 
  
#RealSelfCORESurgeon

Jon Ver Halen, MD, FACS (license suspended) · Answer

Hello and thank you for your excellent question. Yes, the fold of skin and breast tissue you are seeing along the side of your chest wall can be addressed surgically by extending the reduction incision laterally. It does not necessarily require liposuction to address. Of course, you will need an in-person consultation to evaluate you for this procedure. Preoperative visualization and surgical simulation with the Crisalix system may help with your decision. I suggest that you find a board-certified plastic surgeon with whom you are comfortable. Be sure to have all of your questions answered during a face-to-face meeting with your surgeon, and review before and after pictures of patients who have had similar procedures. Good luck!
Best,
  
Jon Ver Halen, MD FACS
  
Harvard educated plastic surgeon
  
Texas “Top Doc”

Can "side boob" be removed with a longer anchor scar during a breast reduction? (Photo)

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Can "side boob" be removed with a longer anchor scar during a breast reduction? (Photo)

Answers (2)

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