Why was Lily Porter denied breast reduction surgery by the NHS?

The NHS denied Lily Porter breast reduction surgery primarily because her Body Mass Index (BMI) was considered too high according to their strict guidelines.

What health risks did Lily Porter face due to her large breasts?

Lily Porter contracted a potentially life-threatening sepsis infection due to skin tears caused by the weight of her breasts, and she remains at high risk of recurrent sepsis.

How much of Lily Porter's body weight is attributed to her breasts?

Lily Porter's breasts are estimated to weigh five stone in total, accounting for approximately 30% of her 17-stone body weight.

Home / Health / Sepsis Survivor Denied Breast Reduction

Sepsis Survivor Denied Breast Reduction

6 Feb

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Summary

Woman battled sepsis due to skin tears from large breasts.
NHS denied breast reduction due to high BMI.
Her breasts account for 30% of her body weight.

A 21-year-old mother is experiencing significant distress and pain due to her 36 NN breasts, which weigh an estimated five stone combined. Last September, the weight of her bust caused skin tears, leading to a life-threatening sepsis infection. Despite surviving the ordeal, the infection persists, leaving her at high risk of recurrent sepsis.

She has been denied a breast reduction by the NHS, which cited her high Body Mass Index (BMI) as the reason. Ms. Porter contends that her BMI is disproportionately affected by her breasts, which constitute about 30% of her total 17-stone body weight. This has prevented her from enjoying life and caused constant physical pain.

Ms. Porter has sought help from her local MP, Jo White, who has written to the NHS on her behalf. However, her local integrated care board (ICB) has so far blocked the surgery. The NHS stated that strict guidelines, including a BMI requirement of 18-25 maintained for one year, must be met, though exceptional cases can be considered.