Breast reduction - do I need to lose weight first? (Photo)

Hello, Glorious 51990. Thank you for your question regarding whether you need to lose weight first or undergo your breast reduction. For most plastic surgery procedures, most plastic surgeons recommend you lose as much weight as reasonably possible. Currently, your BMI is 26. This is not bad. However, if you can lose more weight, that would be ideal. If you undergo your breast reduction now and lose weight after your surgery, you may lose volume from the breast. Therefore, your breasts might wind up being smaller than you had anticipated. If you lose the weight first, and then have the breast reduction, your breasts stand less of a chance of losing volume with further weight loss. In conclusion, it is always best to lose weight before any plastic surgery procedure. This approach achieves optimal outcomes. Therefore, most plastic surgeons would advise you to lose more weight before your breast reduction. Good luck. I hope I’ve helped answer your question regarding whether you should lose weight before or after your breast reduction.
Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic and Aesthetic Surgeon

Hello, you don't have that much weight, you can do the reduction and lifting with the Weight you currently have

The most ideal weight situation is one where the patient is classified normal weight for their height. An overweight status is also acceptable. As one's weight increases and they fall into the category of obese, the risk for complications increase. It's best to calculate the body mass index or BMI and figure out what category you fit into. You can easily find a BMI calculator online. With that said, a BMI of 30 or less is reasonable to move forward with a breast reduction. We have performed breast reductions are larger BMI's but it is determined on a case by case evaluation. From the looks of your photo that you provided, you appear to be a good candidate at your current weight.

There are plenty of studies looking at breast reductions in overweight patients and while the complications may be higher depending on the study you read, it is still a great option to help reduce your breasts and improve your symptoms

Thanks for your question! As long as you are happy with your weight, you should be fine. If you would like to lose weight, then you should try to do that first to get the best result! Good luck!

Your BMI is 26 and you are a suitable candidate for breast surgery. You do not need to lose additional weight prior to surgery, unless you want to. The technique I recommend is The Bellesoma Method. This will reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage. Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Thank you for your question! It is always best to be assessed by a board-certified plastic surgeon in person. It is typically recommended to complete your weight loss journey before undergoing any body contouring surgery. Reaching your weight goal will help to decrease the risks of surgery while also improving your cosmetic outcome.

Ideally, we should all lose weight to be at our ideal weight range. If you want insurance to cover your reduction, they will increase the amount of tissue that must be removed according to how much over ideal weight you are.

Hi, thanks for your question and photo. You are right, for a breast reduction procedure, you must be in your ideal BMI. It's the best for your health and to get optimal results. Consult a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area and be sure to follow a long-term weight reduction treatment. Good luck!

You are fine to proceed with a breast reduction when you are ready. However if you are intending to lose weight, it is best to complete that goal prior to surgery, especially if you tend to lose volume in your breasts with weight loss. This will give your surgeon the best opportunity to maximize your results.