At the plastic surgery practice of Dr Ellis Choy, we understand that cost is a crucial factor when making decisions about surgery. That is why we believe in providing comprehensive and transparent information about the costs of breast reduction in Australia.
Below, we answer some of the questions we commonly receive about the cost of breast reduction surgery. By gaining a clear understanding of the costs involved, you can make informed decisions about whether breast reduction surgery is right for you. We encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr Choy to receive a personalised quote for your procedure.
What Are the General Costs Involved in Plastic Surgery?
While the specific costs of each procedure may vary, the following fees are often included in the estimates for plastic surgery:
- Surgeon’s fee
- Anaesthetist’s fee
- Surgeon’s Assistant’s fee
- Hospital and facility fees (e.g. accommodation, operating theatre, medicines and dressings)
- Recovery garments and supplies
- Routine follow-up visits
Additional costs such as transportation, time off work or management of complications are not included. Be sure to consider the total investment you may need to make before deciding if plastic surgery is right for you.
Does the Type of Breast Reduction Affect the Cost?
There are many different reasons why you may want breast reduction surgery. For some women, it is a matter of aesthetics and personal preference. For other women, there are physical limitations or medical considerations involved.
Large breasts may contribute to:
- Chronic neck, shoulder or back pain
- Frequent skin irritation or infections under the breast fold
- Headaches
- Depressions in the shoulder area from bra straps
- Posture issues
- Restricted activity
The reasons for your breast reduction do not affect the cost of the procedure. However, they do affect whether your surgery may be covered by Medicare or private health insurance.
Cosmetic breast reduction is considered an elective procedure. Therefore, the full cost of the procedure is the patient’s responsibility.
If there are health issues involved and prior attempts to alleviate those issues have failed, breast reduction surgery may then be considered a medically necessary procedure and become eligible for coverage through Medicare and private health insurers, thus reducing the financial burden on the patient.
Does Medicare Cover Breast Reduction in Australia?
The Medicare system does not cover breast reduction surgery if it’s undertaken purely for cosmetic reasons.
However, there are circumstances in which breast reduction is deemed medically necessary, most often related to a developmental abnormality, breast cancer or significant physical discomfort that diminishes the patient’s quality of life.
To be eligible for Medicare coverage, the surgeon must provide evidence of a medical need for the procedure. The surgeon must be a fully qualified specialist plastic surgeon who is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and who is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS). Dr Choy meets these requirements.
RELATED: Is Breast Reduction Covered By Insurance?
What Medicare Item Numbers Are Relevant for Breast Reduction?
The following MBS item codes may be applicable for breast reduction:
- 45060 — single stage correction of developmental breast abnormality (breast volume asymmetry)
- 45061 — two stage correction, first stage, of developmental breast abnormality (breast volume asymmetry)
- 45062 — two stage correction, second stage, of developmental breast abnormality (breast volume asymmetry)
- 45520 — breast reduction in the context of breast cancer or developmental abnormality of the breast; includes repositioning of the nipple
- 45522 — breast reduction without repositioning of the nipple; not applicable for the treatment of gynaecomastia or procedures including insertion of a prosthesis
- 45523 — breast reduction with surgical repositioning of the nipple for patients with abnormally large breasts and experiencing pain in the neck or shoulder region
To be eligible for any of these MBS items, you must meet all specific requirements laid out in the Medicare Schedule. The full descriptions of the items can be found on the MBS Online website and discussed with Dr Choy.
Does Private Health Insurance Cover Breast Reduction in Australia?
Private health insurance may help reduce your costs if you qualify for one of the MBS items listed above.
Depending on your policy, your private health fund may pay some or all of the hospital costs, while Medicare covers some of the doctors’ costs. Your health insurer may also cover some or all of the remaining doctors’ costs.
Be prepared to pay some out-of-pocket costs. Your out-of-pocket cost is the difference between the amount charged and the combined amount paid by Medicare and your private insurer.
Contact your insurer for accurate information about what your policy includes and what is restricted or excluded.
The Final Tally: What Is the Cost of Breast Reduction in Sydney?
The cost of breast reduction in Sydney typically ranges from $12,000–$20,000. This range includes purely cosmetic reductions as well as reductions for patients with medical concerns.
Please note that the costs outlined above are general estimates only. Each patient is unique in her goals, needs and body type, and the cost of plastic surgery is highly individualised as a result. Exact quotes can only be provided as part of your consultation with Dr Choy.
In Dr Choy’s office you will receive a Cost/Payment Schedule that breaks down all costs associated with your proposed breast reduction procedure. At this time, you can contact your health fund provider regarding eligibility for any rebates.
Meet With Dr Ellis Choy to Discuss Your Breast Reduction
Undergoing plastic surgery is a serious decision. While the cost is an important consideration, it is crucial that it is not the only factor. Your highest priority should be finding a qualified and experienced surgeon who can be trusted to respect your desires without compromising your safety.
Dr Ellis Choy is a fully qualified specialist plastic surgeon. He has trained and practised in some of Australia’s most prestigious institutions and is a member of numerous professional organisations, including the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the International Confederation of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery. He is known for his artistic eye and personalised approach to patient care.
If you are ready to discover if breast reduction could be right for you, please submit an enquiry or call us on (02) 8962 9388. We serve patients in Sydney and the surrounding areas of NSW, as well as throughout Australia.
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