I have diabetes. Can I have a breast reduction? (Photo)

Question

I'm a 55 yr old with diabetes. I take metformin twice a day. I am 5'0 165 lbs. I just lost 32 lbs. I am a 38 H. Have back and shoulder pain. I was told it's to much of a risk for infection. They would not do it.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

If your blood sugars are well controlled and you do not have any other medical problems, proceeding with surgery may be reasonable.Kenneth Hughes, MDBeverly Hills, CA

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

In my opinion as long as your glucose  is controlled you can have a breast reduction.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,Congratulations on your weight loss!  There are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of significant complications after elective surgery:1. Lower your BMI to below 30.  For you, that means a body weight of 152 lbs or less. 2. Keep your Hemoglobin A1C to below 5.5%3. Don't smoke, and don't be around those that smoke either indoors or out. Once again, I commend you on your weight loss. You are getting very close.  If you haven't already, please consider a high protein/fat, low carb diet.  This will help with decreasing body fat stores, maintain muscle, and lower blood glucose. Best of luck!

Payman Danielpour, MD, FACS · Answer

Diabetes is not a contraindication for Breast reduction surgery however it is imperative that you have tight control of your sugar and hbga1c.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.Diabetes does increase your risk for healing issues and infections.However, if your HGBA1c is good and your blood sugars are controlled, you would be a good candidate.You will also need  medical clearance from your primary doctor.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 and restorative breast surgery.best of luck!Dr Schwartz

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about the problems your disproportionately large breasts cause.Based on your description, you may be an excellent candidate for breast reduction surgery; this operation tends to be one of the most patient pleasing operations we perform. Patients are encouraged to try to have the procedure performed when they are at their long-term stable weight if possible.Well-controlled diabetes will not  in itself  pose a contraindication to breast reduction surgery. I would suggest an evaluation and “medical clearance” from  your primary care physician.Best wishes.

David S. Motoki, MD · Answer

Thank you for your questions and photo. Diabetics can have an increased risk of infection and healing problems after surgery. However, if the diabetes is well controlled than the risk can be acceptable if your back and shoulder pain are a major problem for you. Breast reduction surgery is the only proven way to eliminate or improve the pain associated with overly large breasts. Consider a second opinion from an experienced and board certified plastic surgeon.

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

and you should find another surgeon to do this for you.  Yes, you have increased risks for wound issues and infections but they should be easily managed for a satisfactory outcome.  You should be able to have your procedure and have your insurance cover it for you as well.

Carmen Kavali, MD · Answer

Good afternoon and thank you for your question.  No matter the surgery, it is never a bad idea to see a few different surgeons to get multiple opinions.  It is certainly possible to do a breast reduction in a patient with diabetes, although it does increase your risk for wound healing issues and infection.  Every physician has their own criteria for surgery, but getting your HgbA1C to an acceptable range would increase the likelihood of being able to do the surgery and having a desirable outcome. I recommend getting updated blood work and visiting a board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate you and your labs.  Best of luck.

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