Finally ready for a breast reduction - advice for moving forward?

Hi lyrn88,
In general, patients presenting for breast reduction have chronic back and neck and shoulder pain, bra strap grooving, rashes in the fold underneath the breast, and challenges finding clothes that fit. Many feeling awkward in social situations, and have trouble exercising.
In addition to symptoms and life issues as above, many patients will have undergone physical therapy, chiropractic care, massage therapy, and/or have multiple visits to their primary care doctor to address the above issues.
For insurance based surgery, good documentation of symptoms, life changes, and use of the medical system as above is very helpful in getting procedures covered. These, plus your surgeons expected removal weight, will be inherent to the preapproval process. For out-of-pocket surgery, you and your surgeon can discuss having the surgery at your discretion, as there is no pre-authorization process.
Hope this helps.
Best,Christopher Pannucci, MD MSBoard Certified Plastic SurgeonPlastic Surgery NorthwestSpokane, Washington

Most breast reduction patients are very happy after surgery and have significantly improved quality of life. Not only does reducing the weight of your breast decrease the stress on your neck and back, a breast reduction also lifts your breast tissue so that your center of gravity is not constantly pulled down, thus also helping with your posture. Next steps would be to seek a board certified plastic surgeon for a consultation to discuss the procedure in detail, your expectations, and to make sure your are medically cleared for elective surgery.

If you are at a healthy, stable weight and are at least six months post partum you are ready for surgery. From your description you are a good candidate for the procedure. Visit the ASPS website to find board certified plastic surgeons near you. Hear you can review credentials and look at before/after photos. Schedule a few consultations with those who meet your criteria.