How To Recognize The Signs That You Need a Breast Reduction

If you are large-breasted, there can be many signs that you need a breast reduction. Breast Reduction surgery has been proven to provide a number of benefits for your health, and this is the reason that your insurance may cover the procedure. There are thousands of women who suffer from breast-related physical pain, and if not properly addressed, these issues can develop into much more serious conditions over time.  

In order to avoid progressively worsening symptoms, it is essential to recognize the early signs that may indicate that a breast reduction procedure may improve your quality of life.  Look to us for the many options that can help remedy your situation. This blog covers the signs to look for, qualifications for the procedure, and what insurance options may be available to you.

Reasons To Get A Breast Reduction

From chronic, physical pain to general unhappiness with your physical appearance, the most common reasons to get a breast reduction include: 

• Pain
  Back, neck, or shoulder pain is especially prominent in those with large chests, even more so for those who have smaller frames.  Carrying the excess weight may cause muscle spasm of the neck, back and shoulders.
• Rashes and Infections
  The space within the breast fold between the bottom of your breast and the skin of your chest and abdomen can act as a location that harbors moisture and potentially infection.  Friction of the skin at this location, particularly in the context of moisture retention can act to worsen these conditions.  If you have rashes or infections under your breast, the risk of further complications can be eliminated by a breast reduction.
• Neurological Symptoms
  Migraines and nerve tingling in arms and hands may actually be from the weight of your breasts pulling on your neck.
• Improper Posture
  Heavy breasts often negatively impact one’s posture in an attempt to compensate for the extra weight. This will also contribute to muscle spasm of the neck, back and shoulders.
• Limited Physical Mobility
  Large breasts may hinder one from performing particular physical tasks to the fullest extent. They may even hurt during physical activity.
• Sleep Difficulties
  Continuous lack of sleep caused by breast discomfort can negatively impact one’s physical and mental health.
• Unwanted Attention
  For some people, large breasts can draw unwanted attention and can cause emotional distress.
• Appearance
  It is not uncommon for large-breasted individuals to struggle with body image issues. In addition, finding clothes that support or cover a larger chest can also be challenging.

Luckily, a permanent solution to these issues is breast reduction surgery. Therefore, if you experience one or more of these symptoms, you may be a good candidate for this elective surgery. Below, you will find more information about qualifications, insurance, and where to schedule an appointment.

Breast Reduction Qualifications

If you are thinking about breast reduction surgery, it is vital to understand the qualifications for breast reduction. To begin, you must be in overall good health. This is imperative for the safety of surgery and a shortened breast reduction recovery time.

Body mass index, or BMI, will also be a primary factor of consideration. In addition to the negative effects of obesity as a whole, weight loss may naturally decrease breast size. Thus, BMI will be heavily taken into consideration when qualifying for surgery.

Your doctor will assess you for any other underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, that may pose additional complications. Additionally, smoking is an immediate disqualifier for breast reduction surgery.

Finally, your breasts must be fully developed. Performing a breast reduction too early in one’s development can be detrimental and is not recommended. Although the minimum age for breast reduction surgery is generally 18-years-old, this can vary depending on your doctor’s assessment of your development.  We have cared for younger patients with extenuating circumstances.

Overall, if you are serious about breast reduction surgery, it is essential to take the necessary measures to become the best candidate possible.

Does Insurance Cover Breast Reduction Surgery?

The total out-of-pocket cost for breast reduction surgery will vary based on your insurance plan. 

Under certain conditions, Dr. Everett can deem the surgery to be medically necessary, and your insurance may cover part or all of the cost of your surgery. However, Dr. Everett has to demonstrate medical necessity to your insurance company. Therefore, each symptom must be documented as a medical condition to ensure insurance classifies surgery as a medical necessity. This will give you the highest chance of being fully insured for a breast reduction.

Taking The Next Steps

Breast reduction surgery can be life-changing for the better. If you believe that you are ready to take the next steps, Dr. Marc Everett MD, FACS can help you throughout every step of your breast reduction.

Dr. Everett has earned a reputation as one of New York’s leading plastic surgeons for breast-related surgeries, including insurance-covered breast reductions and revisions of previous breast surgeries.

For a free insurance validation and to schedule an in-person or virtual consultation, please click here.