Breast Reduction

When considering a reduction, women with uncomfortably large breasts are interested in learning more about how this surgery can enhance their looks, increase comfort, and help them enjoy life to the fullest. In fact, many of Dr. Sorokin’s breast reduction patients come to Philadelphia office concerned about:

• Back, neck, or shoulder pain
• Premature sagging
• Discomfort when exercising
• A disproportionate or “top heavy” body shape
• Rashes under the breasts
• Unwelcome stares and awkwardness
• Painful bra strap marks and rashes

Women with large breasts select breast reduction to improve their body image and emotional well-being. After a surgery that takes a few hours and a recovery period that generally takes a few weeks, women are able to enjoy breasts that are a better fit for their body and their lifestyle.

Insurance companies have become more and more difficult over the years when dealing with surgeries like this. They require vast amounts of documentation in order to even qualify for these procedures. Insurers demand documentation from other physicians, chiropractors, and evidence of treatment for pain and rashes and even when given this documentation, refuse to cover the procedure. Even when they do agree to cover the costs of surgery, they agree to pay at rates far less than what most plastic surgeons feel is reasonable reimbursement for this surgery. For these reasons, Dr. Sorokin has decided not to participate with commercial insurance companies. We charge up front as we do for any elective procedure and then patients can try to obtain potential reimbursement from their insurance company. If you are looking for full insurance coverage of breast reduction surgery, it will be better for you to check with your insurance carrier for in-network surgeons. We tell you this not to discourage you from coming to see us but rather in the interest of full and fair disclosure.

The procedure begins with a carefully placed incision that circles the areola and drops down to where the breast connects to the chest wall (in anatomy, known as the inframammary fold). This extends along the crease of the breast fold and is often described as an anchor incision.  Through these incisions, Dr. Sorokin is able to remove excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin. He then repositions the nipple and areola and closes the incision to give the breasts a tightened and lifted look. He does not believe in liposuction alone for breast reduction as this will make the breast smaller but will make the breast sag in an unappealing way.

Variations on this technique may be used depending on your breast anatomy and your cosmetic goals. Dr. Sorokin will discuss your breast reduction surgery options to create your desired breast size and position. A reduction can eliminate both the physical and emotional pain that are so often a part of having overly large breasts.

You can change your look and your life with breast reduction surgery. Request a consultation at the office of Delaware Valley Plastic Surgery in Philadelphia to discuss your options in detail, or call to set up an appointment.