Many women are tired of dealing with their large, heavy breasts. Many times, those who have significantly large breasts experience pain in the back, neck, shoulders, and along the curvature of the spine. Many patients recognize the impact oversized breasts can have when trying to incorporate exercise and physical activity into everyday life. All of these things can have a profound effect on the body and quality of life.
It's a prevalent misconception that the expenses associated with medically necessary procedures are not covered by insurance. Many patients may be nervous to inquire about breast reduction surgery because they do not want to incur the cost. Board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. James Romanelli and Dr. John Layliev perform breast reduction surgery for both cosmetic and reconstructive reasons. Today’s Long Island-area woman can obtain a more contoured silhouette, but also get relief from often problematic physical symptoms. This means your insurance company is more likely to cover a portion of the cost as a medically necessary procedure.
Board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. James Romanelli and Dr. John Layliev of Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery in Huntington, NY, are experts in the industry. Their state-of-the-art practice offers breast reduction surgery in a comfortable and inviting environment that delivers both functional and aesthetic results to their patients. Take the first steps and learn how your breast reduction may be covered by insurance.
Breast reduction surgery explained
Also called reduction mammoplasty, breast reduction surgery helps with disproportionately large or sagging breasts. By reducing fat and lifting the breasts, excess weight is alleviated while achieving a more balanced appearance. During your initial consultation at Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Romanelli or Dr. Layliev will explain in detail how breast reduction surgery is performed.
During your consultation and assessment, the incision method and degree of reduction will be determined based on the patient’s aesthetic goals. Some surgeries require areolas to be repositioned to appropriately fit the reshaped breasts. Our plastic surgeons will discuss residual scarring so you are aware of what to expect. Depending on the complexity of the reduction, the incision is made around the areola along with a vertical line to form a "T" shape. Next, breast fat and tissue are reduced along with the tightening of the skin and tissue. During this outpatient treatment, general anesthesia is used to ensure that patients have a maximum level of comfort.
Health insurance coverage
In order for your health insurance to cover your breast reduction procedure, there are a few things to consider. The first essential step is to take notes along with careful documentation of all symptoms related to your breasts. With proper documentation and information, the insurance company is more likely to cover the costs. For example, if you have frequent back pain, jot down how long the pain lasts and its frequency. You should also note the intensity of the symptoms and whether they change or get worse over time. Other common health issues related to enlarged breasts:
Difficulty or inability to exercise
Numbness in the breast or chest area
Persistent pain in the joints, shoulders, neck, and back
Shortness of breath due to the weight of the breasts
Recurrent skin rashes and infections under the breasts
Painful shoulder grooves where bra straps rest on the shoulders
Poor body image and low self-esteem
Insurance companies may require documented reports from other referred specialists before coverage is approved. Also, keep in mind that insurance companies typically request 6 – 12 months of documentation and treatment by either a physical therapist, chiropractor, dermatologist, or orthopedist. If you have questions regarding medical documentation and breast reduction cost, feel free to contact a member of our professional staff.
Once we have determined you are an ideal candidate for surgery, the plastic surgeons at Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery and their team will work with you to understand the fees that are covered by insurance and what you are responsible for paying. Every insurance company has different criteria, so not every patient will get the same answer. If the insurance company does not approve coverage at first, further documentation may be requested. Our staff will guide you through the process so you can get the treatment you need at an affordable cost.
Are you ready to begin your journey?
The issue of insurance for breast reduction surgery does not have to be complicated. When it comes to feeling better and improving your natural shape and silhouette, Romanelli Cosmetic Surgery offers Long Island-area patients the latest in breast reduction techniques with the highest standards of patient safety in mind. If you would like to better understand how to get a breast reduction covered by insurance, start by scheduling a consultation at our facility in Huntington, NY. Once your insurance carrier approves you, our team can plan your breast reduction surgery. We can also discuss financing options during your consultation. Your journey to smaller breasts and feeling better can begin today with a phone call to our Long Island, NY, office.
