Medical aids and breast reduction: an oxymoron

Keywords: breast reduction, medical aid

Abstract

Of all the procedures performed by plastic surgeons, bilateral breast reduction (BBR) is the most misunderstood by both clinicians and medical aids. This problem is not unique to South Africa; even in the USA there is limited insight into this condition and what criteria should be met for the selection of appropriate cases.1-3 Consequently, BBR is excluded as a benefit by many medical funders.1-3 It is erroneously viewed as a cosmetic procedure performed by plastic surgeons to improve breast shape.

Author Biographies

D Hudson, University of Cape Town

Division of Plastic Surgery, Faculty of Health Science, University of Cape Town, South Africa

B N Lelala, University of Cape Town

Division of Plastic Surgery, Faculty of Health Science, University of Cape Town, South Africa

F Malherbe, University of Cape Town

Division of Plastic Surgery, Faculty of Health Science, University of Cape Town, South Africa

C N Hudson, University of Cape Town

Division of Plastic Surgery, Faculty of Health Science, University of Cape Town, South Africa

Published
2021-12-08
How to Cite
Hudson, D., Lelala, B., Malherbe, F., & Hudson, C. (2021). Medical aids and breast reduction: an oxymoron. South African Journal of Surgery, 59(4), 193-194. Retrieved from http://sajs.redbricklibrary.com/index.php/sajs/article/view/3584
Section
Opinion