How Much Is Breast Reduction Surgery?
Breast reduction (or reduction mammoplasty) is a life-changing procedure for many women with overly large breasts. While many women might be eager to reduce the size of their breasts, the cost of the procedure is a major factor that influences a potential patient’s decision. In this blog, we discuss what goes into determining the cost of your breast reduction, including insurance and financing options.
4 Min Read:
What Influences the Price of a Breast Reduction?
There’s no one-size-fits-all price for breast reduction surgery; the price you will pay depends on the following:
- Surgeon’s Fee: The surgeon’s fee often makes up a majority of the cost and is influenced by your surgeon’s reputation and experience. A board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive breast reduction experience will likely charge more, but their patients consistently experience superb aesthetic results and fewer complications. It’s definitely worth investing in a highly qualified surgeon for this complex procedure—cutting corners and finding a “good deal” is not worth the risk.
- Anesthesia Fees: Anesthesia fees cover the cost of the anesthesiologist who gives the anesthetic during the surgery. The cost can vary depending on the length and type of surgery.
- Facility Fees: These are the costs associated with the surgical facility or hospital where the procedure takes place. Many plastic surgeons perform breast reduction in their own accredited surgical center for maximum safety and care. Having your procedure performed in a hospital is also an option, although the cost is usually higher.
- Postoperative Care: Your total bill may include post-surgical care (like follow-up visits, prescription medicine, surgical bras).
Does Insurance Cover Breast Reduction?
Many insurance policies will cover breast reduction surgery if it is deemed medically necessary. Insurance companies will cover all or a portion of the surgery if the patient has a documented history related to a significant health issue, such as back pain or persistent rashes.
Before committing to a breast reduction, check with your insurance provider to determine if you qualify. Also, ask your plastic surgeon if they accept insurance or can provide assistance when filing a claim. For example, Dr. Larry Pollack’s office accepts many insurance plans, including Sharp Community Medical Group Insurance.
You will typically need documentation of any medical conditions from your primary care doctor or other specialists, like:
- Pain in the neck, back, or shoulder that interferes with daily activities or recurs with conservative treatment (physical therapy or support bracing) for at least three months, and use of anti-inflammatories for several months with no long-term improvement.
- Nerve issues, such as thoracic outlet syndrome.
- Skin disorders, such as submammary rashes, that have not responded to conventional treatments.
Many plastic surgery offices are familiar with navigating the insurance process and can help you along the way.
Financing Your Breast Reduction
If, for whatever reason, your breast reduction is not covered by insurance, there are many financing options that help make the process of getting a breast reduction more accessible. CareCredit® is a popular financing option that provides patients with flexible payment plans that can easily fit most budgets.
Interested in Breast Reduction in San Diego?
When you’ve decided that breast reduction surgery is right for you, arrange a consultation with Dr. Larry Pollack in San Diego, CA, to discuss your goals, answer any questions you might have, and receive a quote. Call us today at (858) 450-9100, or fill out our contact form to request a consultation.