Procedure: Bilateral breast reduction.

Patient Concerns: This 35 year old female was 5’2” tall, weighed 130 lbs and wore a 36DD brassiere. She complained of breast heaviness and pain, moderate back discomfort, back pain and neck discomfort. After having completed breast feeding, this patient was ready to alleviate her discomfort and pain.

Dr. Markus’ Treatment: Bilateral breast reduction was performed utilizing the inferior pedicle technique. Preoperatively, there was breast asymmetry with the left breast larger than the right. During surgery, more tissue was removed from the left side in order to provide balance. Approximately 0.66 pounds of tissue was removed on each side and patient breast size was changed from a 36DD to a 36C.

Many insurance companies have written guidelines that 1 pound or more of breast tissue must be removed to qualify for coverage. Preoperatively, it was apparent that less than 1 pound of tissue needed to be removed. There are instances when the insurance guidelines do not fit with a patient’s needs. Dr. Markus’ staff wrote to the insurance company, explained the situation and coverage was obtained preoperatively.

Patient Comments: ‘It’s been 2-1/2 years since my breast reduction surgery, and I can honestly say it has changed my life in so many different ways. I suffered from chronic backaches and shoulder discomfort since I was a teenager, not to mention embarrassment. I am 5’2” and wear a size 6 in pants, but I wore a 14 in blouses (pre-reduction). Clothes shopping was a nightmare. I always dreaded the summer since I would have to wear bathing suits with built-in bras for support and had a harder time hiding my disproportionate chest in summer clothing. I nursed three children, and by the time I was finished nursing my youngest, my breasts were so stretched out they faced straight down to the floor. I looked like an old woman from the waist up. I remember showing my mother the bruises on my shoulders from my bra straps holding up all that weight. She was shocked. She always knew how uncomfortable I was with my large breast size, but I don’t think she realized my physical distress.

I tried to get back into shape after my third child was born, but I couldn’t use much of the equipment at the health club. Running and jumping was painful since my breasts were so heavy, they would pull the tissue across the top of my chest. I could feel the pulling even if I walked quickly across the street. Even after I lost my “baby weight”, my breasts were large and more saggy than ever! My husband understood my pain and agreed to meet with Dr. Markus. I decided immediately to go through with the breast reduction surgery. Dr. Markus is extremely thorough and cautious, and even my reluctant husband trusted him. Following the surgery, I was in pain for a good 2-4 weeks, but then I just kept feeling better and better. Dr. Markus and his staff provided the best after-care treatment. I didn’t tell very many people, but everyone’s immediate comment was that I looked like I lost weight. I feel so much more comfortable with my body and can exercise freely without pain. I can play and run after my kids without worry. Clothes shopping is also much easier. And, best of all, I haven’t had a backache since my surgery! Now when I look in the mirror I see me!’