How much volume can be removed from the breast in breast reduction surgery

Thanks for your question. Breast reduction consistently is one of the most satisfying surgeries we do for our patients. The amount of breast tissue that can be removed is based on how much we have to leave behind so that there is adequate blood supply to the nipple areolar complex. Once you have been examined, your surgeon should be able to estimate how much can be removed on each side. Unfortunately fewer and fewer reductions are getting approved by insurance companies as many will not consider them medically necessary unless a HUGE amount is resected. Some policies list it as an exclusion. This is very unfair for healthy patients who have breasts that are disproportionately large for their frame. Provided you have a BMI of less than 30 and have been seeing a doctor, chiropractor or physical therapist for treatment it should boost your chances. Best of Luck!

It's impossible to answer your question without measuring and examining your breasts (I'm afraid cup sizes are not how surgeons measure breasts, since they are not accurate or reproducible). Based on your information, it's quite likely you would be covered if you meet your insurance plan's criteria (which include more than just breast size).

Measurements need to be submitted and it depends on your insurance policy. Typically anywhere from one third to two thirds of your total breast volume can be removed easily using any one of about seven different techniques that are generally accepted. We typically customize the approach to your particular breast shape and size.

Thank you for your picture. In my practice I do not use cup size as a final measure. I use the "look" to determine the final size meaning your breast must be proportional to your hips and waist. Your insurance company will determine if you have coverage and what the minimal amount need for removal. The majority of the time in my patients I remove far more than the minimum to achieve proportion.
Best wishes