I have PCOS and find it difficult to keep weight off. Do I need a reduction and lift?

Hi, Thank you for the question.
Based on what you are describing, you may be a candidate for breast reduction surgery, which is typically covered by insurance.
During breast reduction surgery, excess breast tissue is removed, the breast is lifted and nipple/areola is typically made smaller. It is easiest to think of breast reduction as including the breast lift.
I suggest that you seek an in person consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon specializing in Breast Reduction surgeries to further discuss your options, specific techniques, concerns and expectations. Make sure you specifically look at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results.
I hope this helps.Best regards, Dr. Karanetz
Dr. Irena KaranetzFellowship-TrainedBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

You will need to have a consultation with a surgeon to determine what is the best option for you. Without some more information, it is difficult to provide a more succinct answer.

Hello @tamaralnh thank you for your question. First I suggest you consult a board certified plastic surgeon to tell him what you want and he can assess what can be done. As for the scar, when I approach a breast reduction for me is very important minimal scarring and adequate aesthetic result over time. The incision I always do in breast reduction is in L because the cleavage area remains free of scars and in my 20 years of experience it always has excellent results.

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.

Dear tamaralnh,
generally speaking, you want to reach your goal weight before you consider a tummy tuck, otherwise your results will be suboptimal if you continue to lose weight after the surgery. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. 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

Unfortunately if you are wanting a lift and reduction, incisions must be made on the breasts to accomplish this. There are many scar treatments available on the market to help scars heal favorably. Many are hardly noticeable after a few years. I encourage you to discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon near you.