Breast Reduction: Insurance Company Requirements
Breast reduction is done by plastic surgeons for many women. Most of them are covered by health insurance. If you have DD or larger breasts, back / neck / shoulder pain which hasn't responded to over the counter medications, interference with daily activities, and if the surgeon estimates removing more than 1-2 pounds of excess tissue, then your health insurance will likely cover reduction surgery. However insurance companies do not all use the same requirements. Some require you to have treatments prior to seeing a plastic surgeon, so you are wise to inquire of them first. We do not require referral (we'll help you anyway), but your insurance may so check first. Your primary care doctor may be able to answer your questions, or call customer service at your insurance company. http://www.expertplasticsurgeon.com/photogallery/breast-reduction-4799
We also commonly perform breast reduction for a reasonable fee for women that do not have health insurance, have high deductible policies, or who want to have it done even though their insurance company will not cover the procedure. Cosmetic breast reduction is usually less extensive than the procedure done for very large breasts.
Breast lift is always part of breast reduction. Although breast lift alone is chosen by many women to improve the effects of gravity, pregnancies, breast feeding and / or weight loss. You've probably heard of the "Mommy Make Over?" That's combining breast enhancement with body contouring. http://www.expertplasticsurgeon.com/photogallery/breast-lift-mastopexy-4796
You may find it interesting that we also perform reduction of large male breasts, although the procedure is much different for men. In fact, male breast reduction is the 5th most common cosmetic surgery for men. Insurance does not usually cover the procedure done for men, but they like feeling more comfortable without a shirt at the beach or lake. http://www.expertplasticsurgeon.com/photogallery/male-breast-gynecomastia-4841