Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Reduction

Will my breast reduction be covered by insurance?

Many insurance companies will cover breast reduction, though insurance criteria for coverage vary widely between different companies and plans. To determine coverage, we must submit a preauthorization letter along with Dr. Friedman’s dictation of your visit, your photos, a letter from your primary care physician recommending that you undergo breast reduction, and an estimate of the volume of breast tissue to be removed. Most insurance carriers take about 6 weeks to make a decision regarding coverage.

Will my breasts be lifted during my breast reduction?

All breast reductions involve lifting the breasts. Although the primary reason for surgery is reduction of back and neck pain, the breasts generally look much better after surgery. In addition, the nipple-areolae are reduced in diameter and moved higher on the breasts, so that they point forward (rather than down).

What size will my breasts be after reduction?

This is an individual decision. However, Dr. Friedman usually recommends a postoperative size in the C to D range. The idea is to remove enough breast tissue to improve your symptoms and appearance--without removing so much tissue that you feel there’s nothing left.

How visible are the scars?

Every woman scars differently. However, the scars around the nipple-areolae and along the upper portion of the vertical incision are generally fine line and relatively inconspicuous. The lower part of the vertical scar and, if needed, the incision within the crease under the breast frequently widen to some degree, as these portions of the scars bear the most weight and tension. The scars are clearly a trade-off for the improvements anticipated with surgery. For most women, this trade-off is very worthwhile.

Should I lose weight before breast reduction surgery?

Many women with enlarged breasts are overweight. Dr. Friedman does not require you to lose weight prior to surgery. However, if you do plan to lose weight, you should do so before surgery, rather than afterwards. If you lose a large amount of weight after surgery, you may experience some recurrent sagging of the breasts.

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