Breast reconstruction surgery is one of the most popular types of surgery out there. It’s no wonder, really. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women, and breast reconstruction can improve a woman’s quality of life by restoring her appearance and function. However, as with any major surgery, reconstruction carries with it a cost. In this article, we will explore the reconstructive breast surgery cost for women and help you understand what to expect before and after your procedure.
What is Reconstructive Breast Surgery Cost?
Reconstructive breast surgery cost is a type of breast surgery that helps to improve the appearance of the breasts. It can help to reduce the size or number of breasts, restore symmetry, and improve circulation around the breasts. Reconstructive breast surgery may also help to reduce the risk of future cancer.
Reconstructive breast surgery is typically done as a single procedure. This means that the surgeon removes all of the tissues and fat from around the breasts, creating a smoother surface on which to rebuild them. The reconstructed breast will often be smaller than before surgery, but it may also be more symmetrical and have better circulation.
There are a variety of techniques that can be used in reconstructive breast surgery. Some common techniques include:
-Breast augmentation (or “enlargement”) involves adding volume to the breasts using synthetic materials such as silicone or saline.
-Local radiation therapy (or “biopsies”) is used to destroy any cancerous cells that may be present in the area being treated. This can prevent future cancers from growing.
-Subcutaneous fat transfer is a technique in which small amounts of fat are removed from other parts of your body and injected into your breasts.
-Periareolar (below the nipple) mastectomy removes most or all of the breast tissue above your areola (the dark border surrounding each nipple). This leaves a smoother skin surface
Types of Reconstructive Breast Surgery
There are a number of types of reconstructive breast surgery that patients can choose from, depending on their specific needs. These surgeries can help to restore full and symmetrical breasts, reduce the risk of future health problems, and improve quality of life.
The three most common types of reconstructive breast surgery are mastectomy (removal of all or part of the breast), reconstruction with implants (a type of artificial implant placed under the skin in the chest to replace lost tissue), and reconstruction with autologous fat grafting (dissolving fat taken from another part of the body and injected into the damaged area to replace lost tissue).
Mastectomy is typically the most popular approach, as it is the least invasive option. It involves removing all or part of the breast using an incision on either side of the chest. Reconstruction with implants is becoming increasingly popular, as it offers a more natural appearance than traditional mastectomy and may be less painful than other options.
The Cost of Reconstructive Breast Surgery
There are a few factors that can affect the price of breast reconstruction surgery. These include the type of surgery, the surgeon’s experience and qualifications, geographic location, and the time of year.
The national average cost for breast reconstruction is $3,700. This figure can vary significantly based on the specific procedure being performed and the geographic location. For example, Hopkins Medical Center reports that a mastectomy with reconstruction costs an average of $4,600 in Baltimore but only $2,500 in San Diego.
Some surgeons offer reduced rates for qualifying patients through patient referral programs or charity events. Patients should ask their surgeon about any discounts they may qualify for.
Common post-operative complications
There are a number of common post-operative complications that can occur after reconstructive breast surgery. These can include pain, swelling, and infection. In some cases, the surgery may not be successful and the woman may need to have another procedure done to fix the issue. Read more…
Conclusion
Reconstructive breast surgery cost that can help women who have undergone a mastectomy or other type of surgery to restore their breast size and appearance. It involves the surgical removal of some of the breast tissue and rebuilding it using either implants or a prosthesis. Breast reconstruction costs vary depending on the procedure involved, but in most cases the total cost will range from $10,000 to $40,000. Before deciding whether breast reconstruction is right for you, be sure to talk with your doctor about all of your options and costs.
