There is a lot to consider when you have made the decision to undergo breast reduction surgery. At this time, we understand that you are focused on the results of your procedure, but it is important to make sure that everything goes smoothly by taking care of yourself and your health before and after the procedure.
We want to help you prepare for your breast reduction surgery so that you can be confident in your decision and in your results.
The first thing that you need to do is find out if your insurance will cover any of the cost of the procedure. In Michigan, there are specific requirements for coverage for breast reduction surgery, so it is important that you do this as soon as possible. Many surgeons will be able to help with this process or refer you to a professional who can assist you.
If your insurance does not cover any of the cost, then it’s time to start saving up! Breast reduction procedures can cost upwards of $10,000 depending on where you live and what surgeon performs the procedure for you. It also depends on how much tissue needs to be removed during the surgery and how much recovery time will be required after surgery.
Many surgeons offer financing options or payment plans. This can help immensely when trying to afford a procedure like breast reduction. There
average cost of breast reduction in michigan
All women deserve to seek a high quality of life. For some of our patients, the size of their breasts cause physical and emotional side effects that make enjoying everyday life difficult. Women with very large breasts may experience back or shoulder pain, grooves on their shoulders from bra straps, difficulty exercising, and stress about clothing options. With breast reduction surgery, or mammoplasty, a patient may find relief from these physical and emotional symptoms.
How is breast reduction performed?
There are many variations in technique and your surgeon will work with you to determine the best approach based on the physical characteristics of your breast and desired results. At the University of Michigan Health System, breast reductions are most often performed as out-patient procedures using general anesthetic. The procedure typically takes 3 to 4 hours to perform, followed by a 2 to 3 hour recovery period in the hospital, after which patients complete their recovery at home through self-care .
Most often, a breast reduction involves three incisions. The first will circle around the areola, or the dark skin around the nipple. The second incision begins under the nipple and continues until the bottom of the breast. The final incision is along the breast crease, following the natural curve along the base of the breast. These incisions define the areas where the breast can be reduced in size by removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin. It also allows surgeons to define a new location for the nipple. Once the excess skin, fat, and breast tissue have been removed, the nipple and areola will be placed in a higher position and the breast will be reshaped about them. The areola is typically reduced in size to complement the new, smaller breast size. Occasionally your surgeon may recommend combining breast reduction with liposuction to reach the best results, particularly if the sides of the breasts need to be reduced.
If your breasts are too large, and you would like a simple outpatient procedure to reduce their size, then listen to what other women have said about this simple, virtually-no-downtime procedure.
Scarless breast reduction involves the use of a modern form of liposuction, usually through 1-2 tiny holes, and excess fat and mass is removed. This option has the advantage of a very quick recovery (done on a Friday, then back to work and a normal life on Monday*). The results to some degree are instant, but there is some swelling that takes awhile to go away.
Standard breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty) is a procedure where excess breast tissue is removed, and a scar is placed around the nipple and down to the base of the breast, then along the breast crease. The results are instant as well, and swelling goes away in a few weeks.
Is a breast reduction right for me?
If you feel your breast size is inhibiting a healthy lifestyle, breast reduction may help relieve your symptoms. Many patients choose breast reduction in order to achieve a greater sense of freedom in their physical activities, clothing styles, and to improve self-confidence. Additionally, some patients choose breast reduction to alleviate chronic pain, including neck, back, and shoulder pain. Reduction mammoplasty may also reduce headaches, shoulder-grooving from bra-straps, and may help alleviate upper extremity nerve problems due to posture problems.
It is important that any candidate for breast reduction surgery be in good health, with no active diseases or serious, pre-existing medical conditions. Because of interference with normal wound healing and other potential complications, the University of Michigan Health System does not currently take candidates for breast lifts who smoke. When preparing for your surgery, your care team will provide guidelines for eating, drinking and smoking as you approach your surgery date.
Breast Reduction Overview
Also known as reduction mammaplasty, breast reduction treatment is a procedure that is used to remove excess skin, tissue, and fat from the breasts. If your breasts are large in size, you may decide to have this treatment so that you can ease discomfort and achieve a breast size that is in proportion with the rest of your body.
Average Cost for a Breast Reduction
The average cost of breast reduction in the United States is $5,475. This is according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons’ statistics for 2019.
However, it is imperative to note that this does not include any extra costs, such as operating room facilities or anesthesia, and so the total bill is typically more. Plus, costs can differ based on a number of factors, which we will discuss below.
3 Factors That Will Influence Your Breast Reduction Cost
There are a number of different factors that can have an impact on the cost of breast reduction treatment. Three of the main factors are as follows:
Geographic Location
One factor that can have an impact on how much you pay is the geographic location of the clinic. Naturally, in some places costs are simply higher than others.
The Expertise of Your Surgeon
Another factor that can have an impact on the cost of the treatment you receive is the expertise of your surgeon. The qualifications and training your surgeon has made a difference, and the last thing you want to do is cut corners is when it comes to treatments like this.
Anesthesia and Other OR Costs
You also need to factor in any other costs that are associated with your treatment. This includes the cost of operating room facilities, anesthesia, and anything else that needs to be included. These costs should be discussed with you upfront so that you are aware of the total cost of treatment prior to committing to anything.
Consultations Available Now
Take the first step. Get your questions answered by meeting with one of our knowledgeable medical staff for an in-person consultation. Simply fill out the form on this page, and one of our experienced team members will reach out to you promptly to schedule your consultation.REQUEST A CONSULTATION
Am I a Candidate for a Breast Reduction?
You may be a candidate for breast reduction at West Michigan Plastic Surgery if the following applies:
- You have skin irritation underneath the breast crease
- You have shoulder indentations from your bra straps
- You experience shoulder, neck, and back pain because of the weight caused by your breasts
- Your breasts are limiting your physical activity
- You are bothered by the feeling that your breasts are too big
- You have realistic expectations
- You are a healthy, non-smoking individual
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does breast reduction decrease chances of breast cancer?
Breast reduction does not change your chances of having breast cancer.
- Do I need to lose weight before surgery?
Some women may need to lose weight before their breast reduction surgery. This will ensure the best possible outcomes from the procedure and recovery. Schedule a consultation to see what your surgeon recommends.
- What size can I expect my breasts to be after surgery?
Your surgeon will work with you to find a size that is both desirable to you and possible to achieve through breast reduction surgery. The surgical team will work to achieve results as close to this size as possible.
- Will the nerves in my nipple be affected by surgery?
Some women experience temporary nipple numbness or hyper sensitivity after breast reduction surgery. When this happens, it typically lasts for 3 to 4 months. Occasionally women experience these symptoms for much longer.
Consultations
At the University of Michigan Health System, we know every patient is unique and that setting expectations leads to a better outcome. Our surgeons work with patients to identify specific goals and results to reach for during a consultation. During the visit, you will have a chance to ask questions, decide the best course of surgery, and design your preparation and recovery. Based on this consultation, your surgeon will recommend the surgical technique best for you.
During this consultation, plan on providing a complete medical history. This includes any information about previous surgical procedures, medical conditions, and medications or supplements. Be prepared for a physical examination of your breast size and shape, including the quality of skin and location of the nipples. To support your confidential medical records, measurements and a photograph will be taken of your breasts before surgery. Finally, expect to discuss any possible risks and possible complications that can come from surgery.