Hello,
I had a reduction when I was 18 (from a 32I to a 32B). I am now 29 and am up to a 34DDD. I can feel the same issues that led to the first reduction (rashes developing beneath breasts, skin feels stretch and painful, upper back pain, inability to do cardio exercises without intense pain) coming back. Is DDD enough to warrant another reduction? How do I know when to do it again?
The good news is that repeat breast reduction is safe and effective. Timing is mostly up to you: when your complaints are no longer tolerable. You should be a non smoker who is otherwise healthy to have the least risk of complications. If you are expecting your insurance to cover this you should contact them and ask what their coverage criteria are. Now is a good time to reach out to a board certified plastic surgeon in your area to arrange for a consultation- this may need to be a virtual appointment depending on your area government restrictions. Best of luck!
I have performed a number of secondary reductions. There is a somewhat higher risk of healing difficulties, due to the fact that the breast tissue contains scar from the original reduction which hampers blood flow. If you have completed childbearing, and your weight is stable and comfortable for you, then considering another reduction is appropriate.
Thank you for sharing your question. It is possible to have another breast reduction to improve upon your symptoms, with timing dependent on your schedule to recover appropriately. See a series of surgeons in consultation to discuss your best option.
A secondary breast reduction is certainly an option if you are feeling the same symptoms that you were having when your breast were a 32I. It can be done safely and the plastics surgeon may want you to provide the operative report from your first surgery. Additionally, if you are considering having children in the near future, it might be advisable to wait until afterwards since your breasts will change shape and size with pregnancy and breast feeding. Regarding your question of whether a DDD warrants another reduction, that is a personal decision and can be discussed at the time of your consultation. It also depends on what size you are looking to be after surgery. Insurance coverage for the procedure usually partially depends on how much tissue is removed. If your plastic surgeon does not feel that you have enough tissue to be covered under your insurance, you may still be able to do a small reduction by paying out of pocket. It sounds like a consultation is the next step...
A repeated reduction can be safely performed. the timing is entirely up to you, and its necessity. excellent results can be gained by a repeat procedure. Today is a good day to contact a plastic surgeon and discuss the procedure.