Breast Reduction Surgeons in NYC

What breast reduction is

Breast reduction removes breast tissue, fat and skin to make the breasts smaller and lifts them at the same time. People often look into it because of neck, back or shoulder discomfort, bra strap grooves, skin irritation under the breast, or difficulty exercising and finding clothes that fit.

How insurance approval works

• Many plans cover breast reduction when it is considered medically necessary. Each insurer sets its own rules.
• Insurers often ask for a record of symptoms and treatments you have already tried, such as physical therapy, and photos.
• Some insurers require a minimum amount of tissue to be removed, based on your height and weight.
• Ask the practice to request written preauthorization before you schedule. If the surgeon is out of network, ask about out of network benefits.

Techniques and scars

Most reductions use an anchor shaped incision or a vertical, lollipop shaped incision around the areola and down the breast. Scars are permanent but usually fade over a year or more. For some people with mostly fatty tissue, liposuction alone may reduce size with smaller scars.

Choosing a surgeon

• Check board certification. For body and breast surgery, look for the American Board of Plastic Surgery. For the face, facial plastic surgeons certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery also perform these procedures.
• Ask how many of this exact procedure the surgeon performs each year, and ask to see before and after photos of patients with a starting point like yours.
• Ask where the surgery happens. New York State requires offices that perform surgery under sedation to be accredited, and hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers are licensed. Ask to see the accreditation.
• Ask who gives anesthesia. A board certified anesthesiologist or a certified registered nurse anesthetist is standard for sedation and general anesthesia.
• Ask what the written quote includes: surgeon fee, anesthesia, facility, garments, medications and follow up visits.

Recovery

Expect a surgical bra, one to two weeks before desk work, and several weeks before running or heavy lifting. If future breastfeeding matters to you, raise it at your consultation; some people can breastfeed after a reduction and some cannot. For men, see gynecomastia surgery.