Life happens. And with it, the effects of gravity, weight changes, and pregnancy reshape our bodies. Many women long to feel more like the previous version of themselves. They may consider a breast lift to restore a more youthful, perky appearance.
A breast lift, medically known as a mastopexy, is an elective cosmetic procedure that reshapes drooping or sagging breasts. The procedure removes excess skin and tightens the surrounding tissue to provide a more shapely and firm appearance.
You may wonder, “Does insurance cover breast lifts?” as it is considered a cosmetic procedure. The answer is maybe. Keep reading to learn all the details about insurance coverage for breast lifts.
Does Insurance Cover Breast Lifts?
In most cases, a breast lift is considered an elective cosmetic procedure. This means it is done for aesthetic reasons rather than medical necessity. Sadly, most health insurance plans usually don’t cover procedures like a breast lift. However, rare exceptions do exist. Your insurance may cover the cost of the procedure if you can prove that a breast lift will benefit your overall health. Some circumstances that may allow for coverage for a breast lift include:
Post-Mastectomy Reconstruction
By law, insurance providers must cover breast reconstruction surgeries for women as a part of breast cancer treatment. Women who have undergone a mastectomy or lumpectomy will have coverage for reconstruction. If you want a breast lift because of asymmetry after a mastectomy or lumpectomy, your insurance might cover it.
Severe Breast Drooping
Severe breast sagging can cause chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain. If your doctor believes a breast lift can ease your pain and reduce the need for ongoing medication, your insurance might cover part of the cost.
Recurrent Skin Issues
Large sagging breasts can cause skin irritation, rashes, and, in severe cases, infection under the breast folds. In certain cases, insurance may cover some of the costs of a breast lift to alleviate these chronic skin issues.
Combination with Breast Reduction
Insurance may cover a breast lift if done with a breast reduction. This is especially true if your doctor shows that the surgery helps with chronic pain or skin problems.
What Can You Do To Get Coverage?
To get a breast lift covered by insurance, they will need a few things to help support the claim. Check with your insurance company first and review the policy’s coverage details. Next, you’ll need to talk to your doctor about your concerns and symptoms. They can ensure that everything is properly documented. After your doctor documents your symptoms, such as back pain, posture issues, or skin rashes, they will submit the note to your insurance company. This note helps support your claim for coverage.
If insurance does not approve coverage for a breast lift, you must pay out of pocket for the procedure. Generally, a breast lift can range from $4,000 to $8,000.
What’s Next?
Most breast lift procedures aren’t covered by insurance, but you can still try to get coverage. However, restoring your self-confidence and improving your well-being may be worth the investment.
Find out the answer to the question, “Does insurance cover breast lifts?” – schedule a free consultation today!