Medscape.com recently published results from a study of women who underwent breast reduction surgery. The goal of the study was to see how breast reduction surgery affected their quality of life over time.
For many women, breast reduction surgery is about much more than aesthetics. Overly large breasts (or breast hypertrophy) can create pain in the shoulders and back and cause lifelong physical problems. This is why many breast reduction surgeries are covered by health insurance, because surgery can reverse the damaging affects of breast hypertrophy.
The study found that patients who undergo breast reduction surgery typically see a significant improvement in their quality of life in the weeks right after surgery, but also a year later. The patients in the study were evaluated pre-surgery, about 6 weeks after surgery, and at various intervals through one year post-operative. A majority of patients showed a striking improvement in quality of life after surgery, even though they were still in the recovery period. The study showed that this significant increase in perceived quality of life is maintained for at least a year.
These findings may assist plastic surgeons in managing patient expectations, and for obtaining insurance authorization.
If you're interested in breast reduction surgery, call us to set up a consultation. We can help you determine if the surgery is right for you, and whether or not it will be covered by your health insurance plan.
