Breast Reduction Surgery
It is very common for women to pursue breast augmentation to increase their breast size. However, some women are looking for the exact opposite surgery. Some women are in need of decreasing the size of their breasts. Breast reduction therapy, also called reduction mammaplasty, is a plastic surgery procedure that removes extra tissue from a patient’s breasts. Specifically, excess breast fat, glandular tissue, and skin are removed to create a decrease in breast size that is more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing.
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) reported an 11% spike in the number of breast reduction surgeries in 2017. ASPA President Jeffrey E. Janis, MD commented, “Breast reductions are consistently reported as one of the highest patient satisfaction procedures because it positively affects a woman’s quality of life. It addresses both functional and aesthetic concerns.”
The Trouble with Macromastia?
Let’s first talk about why a person would want to consider breast reduction surgery. Enlarged breasts can negatively affect a person both physically and emotionally. Excessively large breasts, also known as macromastia, can cause discomfort, especially back pain. Macromastia adds extra weight to a person’s body resulting in pain in various areas of the body and creating disproportion of the body. The strain on the back may also cause nerve and muscle strains leading to shoulder and neck pain and even headaches.
In addition to physical pain, patients with macromastia may experience decreased self-esteem and feel self-conscious because clothes do not properly fit as expected. They may also have difficulty or discomfort in participating in activities such as exercise.
Some patients do not experience symptoms caused by macromastia, however, they are not pleased with the appearance of their enlarged breasts. Breast Reduction Surgery is sometimes performed solely for cosmetic purposes. These patients may gain emotional benefits from the surgery.
What can a breast reduction surgery offer?
Breast reconstruction surgery can reduce the size of the breasts, helping relieve pain and discomfort. In addition, breast reduction surgery also creates a more proportionate body that improves function and appearance. This can significantly impact a person’s life in such a positive way. It offers increased appreciation of self-image, increases self-esteem, and boosts confidence.
Male Breast Reduction (Gynecomastia)
Excess breast tissue is not only a concern for women. Something similar that men experience is called gynecomastia. Gynecomastia is the medical term used to describe enlarged or swelling of breast tissue in men. Gynecomastia can occur at any age. Gynecomastia is typically caused by an imbalance of male and female hormones, specifically an increase in male estrogen levels. Cleveland Clinic, informs us that 25% of men experience gynecomastia at mid-age or older. Typically gynecomastia causes emotional symptoms including decreased confidence and low self-esteem. Gynecomastia surgery can help men feel more secure about their bodies and increase involvement in activities that they were hesitant to participate in prior.
How Much Does Breast Reduction Surgery Cost?
On average, breast reduction surgery costs $5475. USD. This cost does not include anesthesia or facility fees. The cost varies from surgeon and location. It is recommended AGAINST choosing the surgeon that offers the cheapest price. What is most important when choosing a plastic surgeon is to look for one experienced with breast reduction surgery, and a surgeon that you feel comfortable with and trust. We also recommend choosing a surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
Is Breast Reduction Surgery Covered By Insurance?
Fortunately, your procedure may be covered. Many insurances cover breast reduction surgery. This is typically for breast reduction surgery if you are experiencing symptoms caused by macromastia. This is because in these cases it is determined to be medically necessary. It is best to check with your insurance directly to see if it is covered and what is required if it is covered. Insurance policies vary so what is covered for one person, may or may not be covered by your policy. Your insurance policy may also request something called a prior-authorization from your plastic surgeon. The insurance company may require that your surgeon’s office submit a letter explaining why a breast reduction surgery is recommended and also possibly request photos and additional information.
Also, remember that your insurance policy may charge deductibles and co-pays even if a procedure is covered.
If breast reduction surgery is performed for solely cosmetic reasons, it may not be covered by your insurance. It is best to discuss this with your plastic surgeon and then check with your insurance company based on your surgeon’s recommendations.
Beverly Hills Breast Reduction Surgery
Applebaum MD offers breast reduction surgery that is a safe and effective option for women wanting smaller and more natural-looking breasts. The Applebaum MD Beverly Hills Breast Reduction Surgery offers less scarring and faster healing using innovative techniques. Dr. Applebaum performs the French Verticle Mammoplasty, also known as the lollipop breast reduction. Dr. Applebaum has 15 years of experience performing this procedure along. What’s more, he has practiced as a plastic surgeon for over 25 years.
Why is the French Vertical Mammoplasty Procedure (Lollipop breast reduction) so great?
Just a few reasons why patients are choosing the French vertical Mammoplasty Procedures include:
- Fewer incisions and decreased scarring, which results in quicker recovery time.
- Decreased recovery time with minor discomfort, without the use of drains.
- Better shape outcome, creating a more youthful projected shape
- Long term results demonstrate maintenance of youthful breast shape.
Dr. Robert Applebaum has performed various cosmetic surgeries on both men and women. Take a look at Dr. Applebaum’s before and after photos of both men and women at his online photo gallery and see the amazing differences. Dr. Applebaum is very familiar with the common requirements of insurance companies for breast reduction surgery coverage. He will submit the necessary information to determine if your specific insurance policy will cover the procedure. Some insurance companies also require a history of physical therapy treatments if you experience neck or back pain due to macromastia. Dr. Applebaum will create a pre-authorization letter and photographs for you. It can take approximately 2-4 weeks for insurance companies to reply back.
Get Started Today
If you are seeking insurance coverage for your breast reduction surgery, time is required to account for submission and approval from your insurance company. Dr. Applebaum and the team at Applebaum MD can assist in making this process go smoothly. The first step is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Applebaum who is located in the heart of Beverly Hills. The Applebaum MD office offers a very welcoming environment. If you do not live near Beverly Hills or cannot currently travel, no problem. Applebaum MD offers complimentary tele-consultations, which is a great place to start. If you plan to come to the office from out of town, Applebaum MD can offer comfortable nearby hotel accommodations. The entire staff at Applebaum MD will address your concerns and care for your needs.
If you are considering breast reduction surgery–schedule an appointment with Dr. Applebaum to discuss possible options. Dr. Applebaum and his team can answer all your questions and make you feel comfortable with whatever decision you make.
Take the first step today. Call Applebaum MD at (310) 550-7747
Medically reviewed by Dr. Robert Applebaum
Dr. Robert Applebaum is a world renowned and highly respected Plastic Surgeon who is Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. In his nearly 30 years as a practicing physician, Dr. Applebaum has become known as an innovator in the field of laser technology techniques for plastic surgery procedures. He has published numerous articles and scientific papers about the use of laser technology and educates physicians worldwide on the applications of laser technology for plastic surgery. Dr. Applebaum primarily practices out of his private outpatient surgery center, Four Thirty Six Aesthetic Surgery Center, which is located in Beverly Hills.
Sources
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16227-enlarged-male-breast-tissue-gynecomastia