STORYTIME: BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY AND HOW I GOT APPROVAL

#breastreduction #surgery
Here is a story time video of my breast reduction surgery and the approval process. FAQ is below.
BREAST REDUCTION VLOG: • WEEK OF BREAST REDUCTI...
UNITEDHEALTH CARE POLICY: www.uhcprovider.com/content/d...
CIGNA POLICY: cignaforhcp.cigna.com/public/...
AETNA POLICY: www.aetna.com/cpb/medical/data...
🔹How old are you?
37
-What size where you before?
38DDD or 38EE
-What size are you now?
A full C or small D.
-What size do you wear in clothes.
Before I was a 12/14 and size L in shirts. Now I’m a 12 and size M in shirts
-How tall are you and how much do you weigh?
I’m 5’4” and weigh 168
-Did you need help afterwards?
Yes I needed assistance for at least 2-3 days.
-Where you in a lot of pain?
No I experienced more soreness than pain.
- How long was your surgery?
Almost 3 hours.
-Did you lose any sensations?
No everything felt fine.
-Was it uncomfortable to sleep?
No because I was already a back sleeper.
-When did you start driving?
I was up and driving after 5 days. Please consult your doc though.
-Did you experience any other symptoms?
I ran a low grade fever the day afterwards but medicine resolved that. I also had chills the first day. Around day four my varicose veins become horribly inflamed. This is due to immobility but when away after a day or two. I also had a sore throat a few days.
-What surprised you the most afterwards?
I was very hungry and didn’t prepare enough food. I was also surprised at how swollen I was afterwards.
-Who was your plastic surgeon?
Dr. Travis Holocombe
-How did you find your surgeon?
He was recommended by a breast specialist.
-Did you insurance cover your reduction?
Yes. I have Cigna insurance and they covered the surgery. I previously had UnitedHealthCare and purposely switched.
-How did you get your insurance to cover your reduction?
I spent two years documenting my medical issues. I will have a separate video on this. Most insurance companies just need 6 months of documentation.
-What supplies did you purchase after your surgery?
I bought a number of things including gauze, pads, bras, pjs, a robe, oils, etc. A video is coming on this.
-Do you have any children? Are you having any more?
I have a five year old but I do not plan on having any more children.
-Any words of advice?
Ask your obgyn for referrals to a plastic surgeon. Take your time to interview him/her. I had a great surgeon with 30+ years of experience. Make sure you have assistance the first few days. Don’t bother buying any bras until a few days after surgery. Use the ace bandages and have help to wrap yourself back in. Don’t be surprised at how you may feel afterwards. I experienced a mix of emotions including depression the week afterwards. Be patient. My breasts looked lumpy the first few days and are still forming their shape actually.
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[@annettemint]

Hi yall. Hope you enjoy this video. I listed an FAQ in the description box along with policies for United, Cigna and Aetna. You can also look up your policy by using the name of your insurance along with the CPT code, 19318.

[@Lifewittniyahhh290]

annettemint thank you so much. I have been researching so much lately and this video alone has been extremely helpful

[@lacortneyfinch]

annettemint I have Cigna and just got my approval letter. Did you have to pay out of pocket for anything?

[@lucious890]

I have Cigna

[@augustray5453]

@@lacortneyfinch do you know exactly what plan you were on with cigna?

[@augustray5453]

do you know exactly what plan under cigna you were on?

[@katarina.michelle]

Thank you so much for this video! I’m currently 23 and have been dreaming about this surgery since I was 15.

[@aubriehannah5979]

it feels like it’s been forever for me and i’ve only been waiting three years. so shout out to you!!! i hope it all works out for you.

[@FunkyFrogllc]

Wow literally me too this was an amazing video for me

[@CatEyedGoddess]

I can relate. I wanted a breast reduction since 19. I always tried to get my insurance to cover it but it was always denied. I’m now 39 and decided to just pay for it myself.

[@Swanofdreamers]

I admire how organized and determined you were to get your breast reduction done. Glad it all went well with you.

[@MB-xv7er]

The issue is most insurances require you to see a chiropractor, physical therapist, or massage therapist before approving reduction and MOST insurances won’t cover those things... I’ve been trying for 5 years to get a reduction and also breast cancer runs in the family. I’m so tempted to cut them off myself because I can hardly walk, breathe, or even work out. I’m in america of course

[@cheykhristovska]

THIS. THIS. THIS!! Makes me want to cry!

[@chloeesther190]

Smh praying for your breakthrough.

[@Chichi-mo2pc]

Can you switch insurance companies or switch doctors?

[@MB-xv7er]

@@Chichi-mo2pc hey chichi So i fought hard for my autonomy and battled the insurance company. I GOT IT DONE!!!

[@mandyr1942]

First of all you're gorgeous! Second of all thank you for this video! I just got Approved for Breast Reduction Surgery for April 6th. I'm super excited but a little nervous. This video helps me alot.

[@vixenvalenzuela]

How did everything go for you!!???

[@pey2723]

how did the surgery go? i hope it went well!

[@sweetstorm7652]

Please update doll

[@lclane5256]

Thank you soooo much! I'm getting info on how to prep/get approved and this was VERY helpful. Thanks again for sharing!

[@victoriawallacehunter3448]

I love your videos! They are very informative and engaging. You are very authentic and funny!

[@tinatorrez1648]

Thank you so much for this info. My sister is having a lumpectomy in 2 weeks. This helps me to feel like I'm doing something for her by getting all this to make it easier when the time comes. thanks for sharing.

[@diannahall25]

Love when u say I’m still fluffy !!! Great insight !!

[@jessecompton6653]

Hello! I'm a 32HH and I just wanted to say you are so beautiful! Currently trying to get mine covered too!

[@rebeccajones9757]

Thank you for making this video!

[@pamrosina]

Thanking God for your recovery, you look gorgeous your hair is life giving. 💖😚

[@annettemint]

Well look who it is. Thanks so much sis. Side note..I miss your videos.

[@pickyeatersrus4237]

Very informative video, I had a breast reduction at age 14! Yes. I’m 30, 3 kids later and they have returned of course. I’m hoping to get another reduction this year, I’ve struggled for many years and suffer through back pain each night. I regret not documenting it like you, but I will get my gym check ins, and chiropractor visits documentation. I hope to go in for a consult in July

[@Justonevideoplease]

Pickyeaters R'US where tf do you that they do that to 14 year olds??? That’s shocking! Although of course I will guess you must of had very large ones but no way is that something they would do where I live

[@ashleyparisi145]

Sorry if this is a weird question but did the reduction affect you breast feeding your kids or anything??

[@taylortee8474]

Thank you for this video. I hope to have my breast reduction by the end of the year.

[@LadyTrim]

Thanks for sharing your story! I'm so close to getting mine done and I'm excited and nervous at the same time 😄 I've never had surgery before but I'm trusting the Lord to see me through.

[@annettemint]

I'm telling you..it's the best decision ever. You'll feel so much better. Keep praying honey.

[@LadyTrim]

@@annettemint Thank you love!

[@LadyTrim]

I had to come back and let you know that I had my surgery earlier this week!!!!! I'm so happy!!!! I noticed the difference while in Recovery, simply amazing! Cheers to a healthier lifestyle 😁

[@jataralucas]

thank the lord you are okay so glad your breast is better and your back is better you are a beautiful and awesome and amazing and gorgeous woman love ya girl.

[@TheOfficialFayLouis]

I just got my breast reduction done early this week so far it’s painful but very tolerable. I hope everyone who going through this journey or planning to have a safe recovery. Also uploaded my second video based on my breast reduction video.

[@sharl5002]

@Fay Louis. Hi I know you posted this a year ago but this is the message I needed to hear. Mine is Wednesday and I’m nervous, yet excited. Praying for a successful surgery and speedy recovery 💜. Thank you for blessing me. 😁

[@lauraswihart4816]

I'm a 40ddd - I can't stand it! But I'm 195 lbs so I definitely need to lose weight! My husband says it's worth trying to lose weight first & I agree. I may look into it anyhow! 🤔

[@brooklynjlo2012]

Thank u for your very detailed video and description box very detailed I had Cigna but my job switched to united healthcare I’m in Florida so idk .I’m considering but I haven’t had kids yet I’m only 30 the pain is crazy 😥.

[@cartierlens1277]

Brooklyn Jlo did united Healthcare approve you for the BR?

[@brooklynjlo2012]

@@cartierlens1277 I just saw the comment terrible. Life happened I'm still doing my research I haven't started the process. Sorry for the late response.

[@nancyellen8006]

@@brooklynjlo2012 Good luck on your quest!

[@becomingedove1693]

Awesome! Thank you for sharing! I’m considering but seems a lot to get done before the deny you Lol. Then more to approve you 👌

[@healingwithgolden]

God bless your heart. Thanks for sharing 💕

[@ScoobyDTyree]

I'm 17 and a 36D which most ppl think isnt that big but they're so heavy and its hard to stand up straight. I want a breast reduction but I'm kinda nervous and scared. Mostly about having the money and getting approved for the surgery..

[@tamaracarthen704]

Hi sis, so glad I found your channel. I'm in the process of scheduling my breast Reduction. I have United Health and they approved my surgery within 10days .. Woot.. Woot🎉 I'm sooo excited!! My surgeron is the Greatest too! I'm hoping to have my surgery by May 1, 2022🙏🏾 .

[@Tikaboo1187]

Hey Tamara, congratulations 🥳🙌🏾 Did you have to see a chiropractor?

[@tamaracarthen704]

@@Tikaboo1187 Thank you☺️ No , I didn't have see a Chiropractor. My surgery was April 20th. I feel and look Fabulous👏🏽🌹 🤩

[@housdn1]

Hello Tamara - what steps did you have to take to get approved via United healthcare?

[@tamaracarthen704]

@@housdn1 Hi Destiny, I did my research on plastic surgeon's in my area 1st. Then, narrowed it down to 2 surgeon's. I used realself which is very helpful w reviews on surgeon's. I had already inquired, if my insurance paid for Breast Reductions, which they did🤗. if the doctor deemed it medically nessary. I scheduled a consultation w a surgeon I selected on realself, March 27th and was approved 5 days later☺️ I think the 🌟 were aligned. (Because it happened so fast) my surgery was April 20th. Best decision ever! 👏🏽 6mons I feel Amazing! Hope that helped☺️ Good Luck !

[@Angela-uu9hm]

Hi Tamara, I have UHC too. Did you have to show prior documentation of back and shoulder pain before your consultation with the surgeon? I just got insurance after I graduated college and got a job so I don’t have any documentation, but I have all the symptoms of someone who needs a breast reduction. I have a consultation in January, but I do not have any prior doctor’s visit because I didn’t have a primary care physician. Please advice. I will really appreciate any suggestions or feedback you give. Thanks I’m advance

[@lindseybennett3297]

Thank you for the information

[@aimeelerdo]

Very helpful. Thank you.

[@sydney6302]

Poor Jabby. Glad you're doing okay.

[@82RoseLyn]

Thanks for the info

[@blessed_jess_4eva]

Great video! Preparing for my breast surgery in 2024 My bra size is currently a 50 N which is too much & too painful

[@amixeblu]

I had a 3H keyhole knee surgery on my right knee after my car accident and it is just like you say: lights out and then you wake up and don't know what happened. I was in the hospital for a day, and then was allowed to go home. I'm glad everything went well and that you had a great surgeon. I myself am a 32D, and it is not that bad, but your size, I mean I could often see the heavy burden, the slouch (not meant in a mean way) and the weight you carried in the vlogs. Have fun bra shopping. ;) That has got to be fun, right? :D

[@annettemint]

I'm nosey so you don't have to answer this..Was the car accident what caused your current health issues? I think you mentioned that you have chronic pain and I believe we're on the same meds. Oh girl I'm so not offended...those boobs where out of control. haha Side note..I'm having a giveaway for those of you not in the U.S. What line of products can you not get in your country?

[@amixeblu]

You can be nosy all you want :) and I will answer to the best of my ability! :) Yes, that car accident caused a complication called CRPS, complex regional pain syndrome. It took almost 3 years to diagnose, so it was much too late to do something about it by then and it had led to a disability on my 2 legs entirely. In 2008 it spread to both my arms (but that is do-able). I take Neurontin (almost highest dosage) + a pain patch (buprenorfine; highest dosage) for it. I'm so glad you're not offended! Oh gosh, hair products. We can get them over here, but they are considerably more expensive (I order through www.pakshop.eu - there you can see what we can get in the EU). Shea Moisture is always good, because it costs around 17-22 euro a bottle/tub over here, so I think that is always nice. Do be careful and mark your package "gift" when you send it out because when you stick a monetary value on there, people will have to pay customs on the package (you may already know, I don't mean to insult your intelligence, but some people just don't know). Have a great day!

[@nataliehouson3569]

Am 38 and having been wanting a reduction since forever,, My breast started growing from 10yrs…at 38ddd I need one Good share

[@BreakingFreewithShaiMarii]

“ These titties “ 🤣🤣🤣 I need to get mine reduced. I been telling granny about my pain since I was in high school but she always said it was heartburn! 😭 I said in my back? It’s always sharp sharp pains to where it hurts to breathe or move. This morning I woke up and a light bulb went off then remembered you had a breast reduction!

[@talknerdytome8476]

Glad it went well

[@digitalfroot]

i’m a 36 G/H and only 20, 5’2, 180lbs. I already lost 60lbs… I’m convinced my boobs carry a good amount of weight. I want my face to be the first thing people notice about me :(

[@chalseywilder937]

My grandmother got one after she had breast cancer

[@shantihalbeisen]

I want this surgery now. I don't have time to wait. Im in so much pain but i have never documented it with a doctor. I dont even have one! Ugh!! Im setting up a consultation with a PS. How long did you have to wait to have surgery from when you finally got the process started?

[@teesht]

hey, how did it go?

[@ashleyrosee5780]

I also have Cigna and just got approved, my pre-op appointment is this week 😊

[@zyasharpley3635]

I know this is random but I also got Cigna and had United healthcare and have been fighting to get them to approve. How long did it take for Cigna to approve it?

[@RTPDJRT]

I currently have Kaiser I hope they cover my breast reduction I have been a DDD since the 8th grade with a small build and I dream of getting this done

[@divinehealing682]

Did Kaiser ever approve ? Im currently trying to get a breast reduction through them

[@RhoyalOne1922]

Did you have to be a certain BMI for approval?

[@djmom2500]

I didn’t hear if you said your nerves were cut or if you didn’t have feeling in your chest

[@LilmommaAves]

Off topic but I LOVE that haircut on you

[@Gothiqueluv]

Geez. You sure are pretty! O.O

[@queenofitall6613]

How long did you have your insurance before getting surgery?

[@kodaplays8268]

i’m a 38H, the pain is horrible

[@lucious890]

Oml

[@hello_04]

At a 40J 🤦🏾‍♀️🤦🏾‍♀️🤦🏾‍♀️🤦🏾‍♀️the struggle is real

[@caritorojas9117]

well, now I know mine will be denied, even when I have been needing this since I was teenager 😪

[@esperanzanemec7003]

We pay health insurance and they don't want to pay for anything big. I mean we are the one paying every month or year. Is our money, right, so they should pay for anything we want. That is why I hate health insurance. I would like to do that. I used to be 34C and now I'm 34DD.

[@blessed_jess_4eva]

I always take a long time coming out from anesthesia

[@tashabines2871]

I’ve been denied 3 times from insurance I’ve lost 90 ponds have had therapy pain meds and pain creams for my back and shoulders I cry all the time trying to come up with the money to pay for it myself I don’t understand why I keep getting denied I have anthem insurance

[@annettemint]

I'm so sorry your having to go through that. I had to switch my ins for better chance of approval but I get that alot of companies don't give their employees options.

[@cakampe]

Did they do a lift as well as the reduction,? Also the documentation you were documenting, should I start making appointments with my primary to let my doctor know about my back pain, shoulder pain and rash under my breast? I'm a 38DDD and want to be 36 C. I'm 5'9 and weigh 168. Did they go under your breast or through the Arreola? I also live in Phoenix area. Who was your breast specialist

[@lauraswihart8018]

I'm 40ddd & it's like carrying watermelons around! I'm going to lose weight for starters. 😉

[@brenda6721]

How long does it take to get approve d?

[@rbraxton00]

👍🏾

[@Gothiqueluv]

I'm a 38DDD now and I would LOVE to get a reduction. Unfortunately, I have Medicare/Medicaid (United-health). So far no one will take it because they say my insurance will not cover it. Anyone know any tips to have them do it?

[@destinygraham6867]

Switch to Affinity Health Plan

[@carolinacutie8197]

Don’t be discouraged I recently got approved through Medicaid.

[@Gothiqueluv]

@@carolinacutie8197 Wow, this was a year ago! I got my reduction done and it was fully paid for by Medicaid/Medicare. I couldn't believe it! I got a letter from my physical therapist first.

[@royallyunique3855]

@@carolinacutie8197 how long did it take I have my Consultation scheduled I can’t wait I am a 44f I am in so much pain

[@carolinacutie8197]

@@royallyunique3855 2weeks

[@latashawilliams2919]

Im a 38DDD and my surgeon suggested that he remove 450 grams from each breast to give me a full C cup... Aetna denied my claim but they are willing to approve my surgery if he removes 720 grams from each breast. He seems to think that’s too much and will leave me flat chested... do you mind me asking how much was removed from you?

[@annettemint]

That's way too much in my opinion. They removed 550 in the right and almost 600 in the left. Now I'm a full C. I would have to wear a push up bra just to have cleavage. I'm also working out like crazy because my body shape has changed some. Removing over 700 will leave you with hardly no boobs.

[@latashawilliams2919]

annettemint that’s what my doctor said. We both just sent information to appeal the 720 so hopefully we can get it approved. I’ll know something by August 30th

[@reikah3891]

LaTasha Williams did you ever hear back from Aetna about your claim . Interested to know

[@latashawilliams2919]

Shareika H it’s funny that you asked because I went through hell with them and they still wouldn’t approve the surgery so I decided to drop them and I applied for Medicaid. My doctor sent everything to Medicaid this past Monday of THIS WEEK and Medicaid approved my surgery WEDNESDAY of THIS WEEK! I was shocked they responded that fast! My surgery will be February 20th. I’m sooooooo happy! My doctor will also remove the fat between my arms and breast because he feels it will look better! Now I’m getting kinda nervous now that it’s coming up soon lol ..

[@latashawilliams2919]

Shareika H Aetna goes by the BMI chart which can be kinda hard to be approved if you don’t fall within the guide lines

[@shine2491]

Can I get done in Nigeria

[@freightonvenus6674]

Wow, watching how they grew one cup in less than a month was admittedly shocking, I used what I talked about the other day, and well it actually took about 6 weeks for them to totally grow by two cups, I just go’ogled Mika Klopsworth and now the looks I get are so worth it.

[@amberwilliams9469]

Did u have to pay any out of pocket cost?

[@annettemint]

Yes because I had not met my deductible. The irony is now that all the claims have it and I've met it. : )

[@ashleytook9043]

Hey I was wondering if it is less than 2k $

[@elziaskitchen8162]

Can you please refer me to your doctor

[@italymarie2893]

Hi did you have to do blood work before your surgery?

[@annettemint]

I did not however I already had recent bloodwork in my medical records.

[@shemikahullom1014]

I’m wondering how much did you spend on trying to gather evidence to support your claim? You’ve done so much.

[@annettemint]

I gathered documentation for nearly a year.

[@shemikahullom1014]

@@annettemint thanks

[@ihop1571]

13:18

[@godseliteforever]

At 144444 ouchhh