Is It Time to Consider Breast Reduction Surgery?

Back pain. Stiff neck. Rashes. Shoulder aches. These are symptoms of “macromastia,” or excessively large breast size. Macromastia can interfere with a woman’s life. Sports, exercise, sleeping, and even everyday movements can be a problem because the musculoskeletal system is in chronic pain.

The solution for many women is breast reduction surgery. “Most patients who have breast reduction surgery do so because of the significant daily pain they suffer,” says Stacey DonFrancesco, DO, a plastic surgeon at Restorative Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, a Holy Redeemer physician practice.

“Women may feel self-conscious about their appearance and struggle to find clothing that fits properly. This can create emotional and social distress”, adds Dr. DonFrancesco, “which are additional reasons women decide to have this surgery.”

Breast reduction surgery, known as reduction mammaplasty, involves the removal of excess breast fat, glandular tissue, and skin to help alleviate pain and achieve a breast size that the patient is comfortable with. Although less common than breast augmentation surgery, breast reduction surgery increased by 11% in 2017, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Medically Necessary Surgery

You can have breast reduction surgery at any age, even as a teenager. However, most young women wait until their breasts are fully developed, to avoid a possible second surgery later in life.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, you are a candidate for breast reduction surgery if you have symptoms of macromastia, such as:

• Chronic back, neck and shoulder pain requiring pain medication
• Breast pain
• Nerve pain, including numbness in the little fingers
• Rash or skin irritation beneath the breasts
• Shoulder indentations from bra straps
• Restricted activity
• Poor self-image related to large breasts
• Difficulty fitting into bras and clothing

Some women may have symptoms of macromastia but have other conditions, like diabetes, heart problems, smoking, or extreme obesity, where the surgery may not be recommended for them.

Insurance Coverage

Breast reduction surgery is usually covered by insurance when it is considered medically necessary due to symptoms of macromastia. Coverage requirements can vary and may not be covered by all insurance plans. The procedure can also be performed as an elective cosmetic surgery for a fee not reimbursed by insurance.

It is important to note that insurance companies vary widely. Some require a referral from a primary care physician or gynecologist who can assess your need for the surgery. In addition, some insurance companies may require 6 to 12 months of documentation and treatment by either a physical therapist, chiropractor, dermatologist, or orthopedic doctor before proceeding to surgery. If you believe you are a candidate for breast reduction surgery, it is never too soon to let your primary care physician or your gynecologist know about your symptoms of macromastia. If you are considering surgery, you should contact your health insurance carrier and have them provide you with the criteria for coverage.

Outcomes

Breast reduction surgery addresses both functional and aesthetic concerns. “Many of my patients say this surgery has had a profound impact on their quality of life.” says Dr. DonFrancesco.

Are you considering breast reduction surgery? Contact Restorative Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery practice to schedule a consultation with Dr. DonFrancesco. To learn more about the breast reduction and other services available at the practice, please visit the practice page or call the office at 215-447-8054.