Will Insurance Cover My Breast Reduction?

If you have overly large breasts, they may cause physical pain and discomfort as well as a number of emotional and health problems. With breast reduction surgery, you can ease your discomfort, boost your self-confidence, and enjoy an overall higher quality of life. For more information on how breast reduction works and whether your insurance may cover this procedure, read on.

How Breast Reduction Works

In a breast reduction surgery, a surgeon will remove excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin and move the nipple and areola to their new positions. Although the length of breast reduction surgery depends on the complexity of the procedure, it is usually completed in one to two hours in an outpatient setting with general anesthesia.

For many patients an even better choice is breast lipo-reduction, also called No-scar Breast Reduction. Because this procedure is basically liposuction of the breasts, only small skin incisions are made to introduce the thin liposuction cannula; these incisions heal with little if any scarring, unlike the extensive scars that form after standard breast reduction surgery. The majority of patients are good candidates for breast lipo-reduction. As Dr. Langdon will present at the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery Annual Meeting (February 2019), data from standard mammograms, which show the amount of fat content in the breasts, can reliably predict the likely success of this procedure.

After undergoing breast reduction surgery, you can expect a reduced breast size, which corrects sagging and uneven shape. You’ll also be able to alleviate any muscular pain you may be facing from carrying excessive breast weight. Additionally, you’ll find activities and exercise to be more comfortable and notice your clothes fit better.

*Individual Results May Vary

Paying for Breast Reduction Surgery

Because breast reduction can affect your physical and mental health, it may be covered by insurance. The medical term for large breasts that lead to pain and obstacles in daily life is symptomatic macromastia. Insurance companies look for this when determining whether a breast reduction is a medical necessity.

In the event your insurance company considers your surgery cosmetic rather than a necessity, you’ll have to pay for it out-of-pocket. Fortunately, we can work with you to design a payment plan that is comfortable for your budget.

Our financial professionals will work with your insurance company to determine the scope of your benefits. If there is a chance your insurer will cover breast reduction surgery, we can help you document symptoms that may prove the procedure is a medical necessity. Some of these symptoms include back pain, neck pain, posture problems, and significant skin irritation. Keep in mind that Dr. Langdon does not participate as a provider in health insurance plans or Medicare.

Take the Next Step

If you have further questions about breast reduction, we encourage you to schedule a consultation at The Langdon Center in Guilford, CT. Call us at (203) 453-8625 or fill out our convenient online contact form.