(212) 287-7211
Not Your Average Breast Reduction
The breast reduction was designed fifty or so years ago to decrease the burden of large breasts. In that regard, it was revolutionary. Unfortunately, breast shape and overall aesthetics took a back seat. The result is a breast that is much smaller, but generally not aesthetically pleasing with a wide base, a flat upper breast, and a disproportionate amount of tissue under the breast.
Introducing The 5th Avenue Breast Reduction
However, Dr. Gandolfi has designed a method of reducing the breast that not only removes excess breast tissue but at the same time creates a youthful, sporty, and proportionate breast. This is a custom surgery, tailored to fit your body and make you feel good about yourself. Dr. Gandolfi has named this approach after the avenue that his office shares with the most iconic names in the fashion industry. In his boutique office, he too creates a unique experience, customized for you in an extremely supportive environment. This is why his small office is known in the film and music industries.
Limited Availability and Insurance Coverage
Dr. Gandolfi only take on a small number of clients. The 5th Avenue Breast Reduction is more complex and thus more time intensive than a standard breast reduction, so he cannot accept all insurances. He does, however, accept blue cross (in network) and most commercial plans with out of network benefits.
If you have questions about your coverage, you can call or email his office and the team will look up your benefits free of charge. Additionally, Dr. Gandolfi’s office accepts credit card payments and collaborates with lenders to assist clients in securing the necessary funding to achieve their goals.
Why Do Women Decide to Get a Breast Reduction?
When your breasts are disproportionately large for your body, it can lead to a host of complications. One of the most significant of these complications is physical discomfort. If you have oversized breasts, it is not uncommon to experience chronic neck strain and headaches.
Other physical symptoms of oversized breasts include “bra strapping,” where the bra straps create permanent indentations in the shoulders. This may also cause you to experience regular rashes and skin problems. Having large breasts can make it difficult to find clothing that fits properly, and in addition to being inconvenient, oversized breasts can also be awkward and embarrassing.
With breast reduction surgery, Dr. Gandolfi can help bring your natural curves into greater harmony with the rest of your body.
Our Breast Reduction Procedure Process Explained
While the process can look a little different from patient to patient, breast reduction usually follows a certain set of steps leading up to surgery.
Double Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Brad Gandolfi is a double board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with offices in New York City and Englewood, NJ. He specializes in cosmetic surgery and is a member of The Aesthetic Society, a by-invitation-only society for doctors with experience and excellence in cosmetic surgery. He obtained his plastic surgery degree at Duke University Medical Center and spent additional training in facial surgery at UCLA Medical Center. Dr. Gandolfi is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery.
Other Things to Consider Before Getting a Breast Reduction
Are There Any Risks Involved?
In addition to risks associated with anesthesia, there is also the possibility of bleeding and/or nerve damage. Specific to this surgery, there is a very low but present risk of breast skin, tissue, or nipple loss which is directly related to the size of the reduction and the overall health of the patient. The best way to minimize surgical risk is to seek a qualified, highly-trained plastic surgeon who specializes in breast reduction.
Will I Need to Request Off Extensive Time from Work?
We would recommend taking off at least one to two weeks from work. After 10 to 14 days, most patients feel ready to resume normal activities. Strenuous exercise, including heavy lifting, should be postponed for four to six weeks.
Will I Have Scars After the Surgery?
While breast reduction surgery does come with scarring, Dr. Gandolfi carefully places incisions to ensure the scars are well-concealed. Before your surgery, Dr. Gandolfi will provide a full explanation of where your scars will be, and how he will work to minimize their visibility. Also, note that careful adherence to post-op guidelines can help you minimize the appearance of your scars.
Does My Insurance Cover the Procedure?
Yes*! Well, maybe. In order for insurance to cover your procedure with Dr. Gandolfi, you must have a commercial insurance policy. Dr. Gandolfi is in network with many blue cross plans, and is out of network with all other commercial plans. In both instances, you must meet very specific criteria to be eligible for an insurance breast reduction.
For a medical breast reduction, you must have chronic medical issues related to your breast. Most insurance companies require you to have documentation that you have discussed these problems with another health care provider. Common acceptable issues related to enlarged breasts that may make you eligible for an insurance reduction include:
- “bra strapping” chronic bra marks on your shoulders
- Back pain requires persistent medication (Tylenol, Advil, narcotics) and documentation from another physician (chiropractor, physical therapist)
- Breasts so large custom bras are required
- Persistent rashes under the breast
- Breast pain
In addition to the above requirements, some insurances (like Horizon) require 2 additional letters from other physicians to support your case. All require measurements, pictures, and estimated removal amounts to be submitted by the office.
Our office is here to help you navigate the insurance and financing processes.
Is Breast Reduction Surgery Really Worth It?
While this is ultimately a question you must answer for yourself; it is worth noting that the women who do have breast reduction surgery overwhelmingly tell us that they are happy about their results.
Excellence in Breast Reduction
Enlarged breasts can compromise your physical health as well as your self-image. Breast reduction surgery may provide relief. Dr. Gandolfi is a double board-certified plastic surgeon with ample experience performing breast reduction procedures. To speak with a member of our team, contact our office at (212) 287-7211.