What To Know Before Getting A Breast Reduction

Posted on: 6 January 2022

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Large breasts can be very painful. They can cause years of back and neck pain and may also make exercising and other physical activities challenging. A breast reduction can feel like having a weight lifted off your chest. Breast reduction surgery removes tissue and skin, resulting in smaller and lifted breasts. While there are numerous benefits to breast reduction, it's a personal decision, and there are a few things to know about this procedure. 

What It Will Cost

If you are healthy and feel like breast reduction surgery will positively impact your life, it's a good idea to consider the cost before committing to the surgery. If you have a breast reduction for primarily cosmetic reasons, you will likely end up paying for the procedure out of pocket with no help from your health insurance. If this is the case, what you pay will depend on your needs and your surgeon. On average, breast reduction surgery alone costs $5,913. However, the total cost will be higher, including the operating room, anesthesia, and aftercare costs. 

Insurance May Cover The Cost

If you are getting a breast reduction to help with health issues like back and neck pain, your health insurance policy may cover the procedure. However, you will likely need to meet some criteria set by your insurance company before getting approval for the surgery. Some insurance policies may also require a minimum amount of breast tissue removal, often 200 to 350 grams, for the procedure to be covered. Check your insurance policy before seeking out breast reduction services to know for sure. 

What Recovery Will Look Like

Another thing to know about breast reduction surgery is what recovery will likely look like. Recovery varies depending on numerous factors, including your age, the amount of skin and breast tissue removed, and the details of your surgery. Like with many other surgeries, you'll have swelling and possibly drains, and you will need to take at least a few days off from your typical activities. Another thing to know is that you will have scars from your breast reduction surgery, and it will take time before they improve. 

If you are thinking about breast reduction, there are a few things to know. First, the cost of reduction surgery varies, but it will cost a few thousand dollars in most cases. Second, your health insurance may cover the costs; however, you will have to jump a few hurdles. Finally, knowing what recovery looks like for this procedure is essential.