Is breast reduction surgery wrong?
Question:
Hi brother Jeffrey,
I hope you are doing fine.
I am a member of the Lord's church and I'm in my late 40s. I am concerned about a decision I have to make regarding breast reduction surgery. Does Romans 14.23 apply to me?
"But he who doubts is condemned if he eats, because he does not eat from faith; for whatever is not from faith is sin" (Romans 14:23 NKJV).
I do believe there is some vanity in me that wants the surgery, but it is also because I physically need it. The vanity in me wants to be able to wear a dress and not get looks. I want to wear T-shirts that don't get dirty looks either. I want to feel good in my clothes. I want people to look me in the eyes when they talk to me -- especially men. I do not wear clothes that show but it's inevitable.
I'm tired. My back hurts and I'm starting to develop rheumatoid arthritis.
I've had comments from sisters telling me that this is the way God made me and I should accept it. That there are so many women wanting this, and I don't want it. That I just should be happy this way.
My primary care doctor believes I do qualify as a medical reason to have the reduction, which would be covered by my insurance.. Even if my insurance fights it, and I pay for it out of pocket, I think I still want to do it. But then the doubts come.
What did God say about this?
Answer:
That you have medical reasons for having the surgery done and your doctor agrees. That is sufficient reason.
The argument that "this is the way God made me" isn't adequate. People are born with problems (bowed legs, feet problems, etc.) and we think it fine to have corrective surgeries. Your breast size is putting a strain on your back, so it is reasonable to relieve the discomfort. The fact that you expect to like the resulting look better is merely a bonus.
