Can I Have A Breast Reduction If I Am Overweight?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I am asking about breast reduction surgery for my overweight friend. She has a BMI of 43. Is it possible for her to get this surgery without losing weight? Her breasts are very large and saggy and cause her back and shoulder pain. She is much less concerned with aesthetics than she is in relief.

A: There would be no reason why one would need to lose weight before a breast reduction surgery, particularly when one has significant musculoskeletal symptoms. Yes it is more ideal to be at a better weight before the surgery if possible but that is not an absolute exclusion criteria.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana