Breast Reduction

Overview

Do you feel as if your breasts are disproportionately large, and do not "match" the rest of your body? If so, you may be a good candidate for a breast reduction procedure at our Orange County. The procedure may be performed for cosmetic reasons, improved comfort, or both.

Women with especially large breasts often suffer from back and shoulder pain, due to the weight. They may also experience skin irritation from chafing under the breasts. Bras straps often feel uncomfortable, even leaving indentations in the skin on the shoulders.

Breast size can also be a serious social and emotional concern. Although many women with small breasts think of their well-endowed peers as "blessed," it can feel more like a "curse." If you feel embarrassed and self-conscious, avoid certain clothing styles, and feel that men do not take you seriously, you are not alone. Many women with large breasts struggle with these and similar experiences on a daily basis, hence, the popularity of breast reduction surgery.

The procedure

Breast reduction surgery is an outpatient procedure, performed using general anesthesia, which is only administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist. After you are sedated, the surgeon will create the incision, which is shaped similar to an anchor. It extends downward, following the natural contours of the breast. Next, the surgeon removes excess skin, fat, and glandular tissue, then repositions the areola (dark skin surrounding the nipple). The diameter of the areola may also be reduced during the procedure if desired. Finally, the skin is brought together and sutured. Excess fat may be removed from the armpit region using liposuction.

When the surgery is complete, you will need to remain in our office for about an hour, until you become alert. The incisions will be covered with bandages, and you will be wearing a supportive bra. You may also have drain tubes to prevent the accumulation of fluids.

Results

Breast reduction surgery provides more immediate results than virtually any other cosmetic procedure. As soon as the surgery is complete, your breasts will be shapelier, smaller, and better proportioned. Your clothing will fit better, and symptoms such as back pain often improve immediately. Most women are very pleased with their new body shape, and they enjoy the confidence of feeling well-proportioned and attractive.

Costs

Contact the office for pricing for all procedures.

Insurance coverage

Typically, insurance companies pay all or part of medical procedures that they deem necessary, while those labeled as optional are not covered. Therefore, the qualification of breast reduction usually depends on the reason for the procedure. If your only concern is cosmetic improvement, it will almost certainly be an out-of-pocket expense. However, if the procedure is needed for medical reasons, your insurance is likely to pay at least a portion of the cost.

Large breasts can cause or exacerbate pain in the shoulders, back, or neck, and the bras straps may cause indentations in the shoulders. Skin irritation or infection may occur, associated with chafing. During your complimentary consultation, your doctor will examine your symptoms and determine if a breast reduction surgery is medically necessary, according to insurance industry standards. If your insurance company is to be billed, your breasts will be photographed and measured for records.

If the weight of your breasts is a medical concern, the procedure may be covered by your insurance. Typically, there will be a minimum (about 500g) amount of tissue removal to demonstrate medical necessity. Your insurance carrier may also demand documentation from your primary care provider, showing infections, pain, or other medical symptoms. You may also need documentation proving that you have tried more conservative treatment options, such as chiropractic adjustments or medications.