Are You A Good Candidate For Breast Reduction Surgery?

Updated on May 25, 2021

People with overly large breasts can often experience emotional and health problems. The physical impact usually includes pain and discomfort and the weight of the excess breast tissue may negatively affect an active lifestyle. The self-image and emotional discomfort associated with large breasts are as important as the physical pain and discomfort experienced. 

Getting breast reduction surgery is usually an attractive consideration in this case. However, before you decide to go ahead with the procedure, you need to be sure that you are a good candidate for breast reduction surgery.

Who is a Candidate for Breast Reduction Surgery?

You may be considered a good candidate for a breast reduction surgery procedure if you have overly large breasts. Beyond this, other considerations indicate whether or not you are suitable for the procedure. To be eligible for breast reduction surgery, you should:

  • Be physically healthy
  • A non-smoker
  • Have realistic expectations
  • Have breasts that restrict an active lifestyle
  • Be concerned about the size of your breast
  • Experience shoulder, neck, and back pain caused by the size and weight of your breasts
  • Have skin irritation underneath your breast crease
  • Have shoulder indentations caused by bra straps

What is the Cost Implication of a Breast Reduction Surgery?

The cost of the surgery should be a major consideration when contemplating going through a breast reduction procedure. According to statistics, the average cost for a breast reduction surgery is $5,475. 

This cost does not include other costs, such as anesthesia, medical tests, surgical facility costs, medication, and post-surgery garments, among others. It is important to check with the plastic surgeon to know the exact fee you would be paying for the procedure. 

In some instances, your insurance carrier may cover this type of surgery. However, you should check with your insurance company to know if this applies to your plan.

Possible Risks Associated with Breast Reduction Surgery

Having a breast reduction surgery is a personal decision and you must weigh the benefits against the risks before proceeding. Like any other surgery, breast surgery comes with its share of risks. This is why you will be required to sign consent forms that indicate that you properly understand what the procedure entails and the possible complications or risks. 

Some possible risks associated with breast reduction surgery include anesthesia risks, blood clots, bleeding, and allergies to suture materials, tape, glues, topical preparation, injectable agents, or blood products. 

They also include breast asymmetry, change in breast or nipple sensation (permanent or temporary), breast shape and contour irregularities, fluid accumulations, and infections, among others. To significantly reduce these complications and risks, you must choose a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. 

What Does Breast Reduction Surgery Entail?

Anyone can have a breast reduction surgery and the age of the patient does not affect the procedure. However, surgery is recommended when the breasts are fully formed. This type of surgery can be performed at the surgical facility located in the accredited office of the surgeon. It can also be performed in a hospital or an ambulatory surgical facility. 

You should check out the facility before you give your consent for the procedure. If you are not comfortable with the facility, then you should check with another surgeon. The plastic surgeon assisting medical personnel will ensure you are safe and comfortable all through the procedure.

Conclusion

You must choose a plastic surgeon that you trust for your breast reduction surgery. This will make you feel comfortable and at ease during the procedure. If, after the operation, you experience chest pains, unusual heartbeats, or shortness of breath, you should immediately seek medical attention.

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The Editorial Team at Healthcare Business Today is made up of skilled healthcare writers and experts, led by our managing editor, Daniel Casciato, who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare writing. Since 1998, we have produced compelling and informative content for numerous publications, establishing ourselves as a trusted resource for health and wellness information. We offer readers access to fresh health, medicine, science, and technology developments and the latest in patient news, emphasizing how these developments affect our lives.