How Much Does a Double Mastectomy Cost?

If you have a diagnosis or are at high risk for developing breast cancer, you might be asking "How much does a double mastectomy cost?" Find out here.

There are many reasons to consider getting a double mastectomy followed by a breast reconstruction. Whether you currently have a breast cancer diagnosis or are at high risk and considering a prophylactic mastectomy with immediate reconstruction, one of your first questions is probably, “How much does a double mastectomy cost?”

Surgical costs can vary depending on the reason for surgery, who performs the operation, and whether insurance covers the expenses. Let’s examine these in more detail.

How Much Does a Double Mastectomy Cost?

The average cost of a double mastectomy could range from $15,000 to $55,000 if you had to pay entirely out-of-pocket. The cost includes several variables and depends on several factors.

What Goes Into The Cost of Double Mastectomy?

Surgeon’s Fees

This is the baseline fee a breast surgeon charges to perform the mastectomy procedures.

Hospital or Facility Fees

These are determined by the facility where you will have the surgery and can include operating room costs and overhead charges.

Anesthesia Fees

Double mastectomy surgeries are completed under general anesthesia, so you will be asleep for the whole procedure. 

Post-surgical Needs

After surgery, you will probably need pain medication for a short while. Depending on your surgery/reconstruction, you may also need post-surgical garments, wraps, or bras for additional support while healing.

Laboratory Tests

If anything unusual is found during surgery, tissue samples may be taken and sent to a lab for additional testing or to make sure the entire cancerous area is removed.

Knowing everything that determines the cost of a double mastectomy, the next step is determining if and how much insurance will pay to offset these costs.

Will Insurance Cover the Cost of a Double Mastectomy?

For many women needing a double mastectomy, insurance will deem the operation medically necessary and cover the associated costs. Even if your insurance does cover the procedure in its entirety, you will still need to cover any insurance deductibles you may owe. Choosing a plastic surgeon with a designated Insurance Coordinator will help you get the most from your coverage with less hassle and confusion.

When To Choose a Double Mastectomy

There are several reasons to consider getting a double mastectomy, but most fall into one of two categories: you have or had breast cancer, or you are highly likely to develop breast cancer in the future. Reasons for choosing a double mastectomy and reconstruction can include:

Reasons for Choosing a Double Mastectomy

Breast Cancer Diagnosis

If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer in one or both breasts, there is a risk of recurrence as long as you have remaining breast tissue.

Genetic Predisposition

BRCA1/2 mutations, along with others, are linked to an increased risk of developing breast cancer.

Family History of Breast Cancer

If several women in your family have developed breast cancer, you are considered at high risk for developing breast cancer as well.

To Create Symmetry

If you have cancer in one breast, a double mastectomy and reconstruction can provide symmetry. A Double mastectomy eliminates your current cancer and the risk of recurrence.

Personal Empowerment 

You can take control of your future and feel empowered by choosing a prophylactic mastectomy before cancer develops.

End Ongoing Surveillance 

If you are at high risk of developing breast cancer, you must perform ongoing cancer surveillance with mammograms and MRIs. These procedures can be unpleasant, and waiting for results can be stressful. You can end both with a double mastectomy. 

Once you have determined if a double mastectomy is right for you, there are several options for reconstruction if you so choose.

Common Reconstruction Techniques

While making your decisions, a plastic surgeon-first consult can help guide your decision-making process and provide you with the best treatment options and outcomes based on your overall goals, individual medical history, and anatomy.

Choose the Right Team for Your Double Mastectomy and Reconstruction

Having the right support in place can make any surgical experience better. Look for a plastic surgeon who:

At Harris Plastic Surgery, we are dedicated to helping women improve their lives and health. If you are considering a double mastectomy and are tired of trying to find out what a double mastectomy costs, contact our office today. We are here for you.

Harris Plastic Surgery - Your Breast Reduction Experts

Call our office or text anytime to find out the answer to “How much does a double mastectomy cost?” or to schedule your consultation.

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Joanne Parrinello, Practice Manager

Joanne Parrinello is an expert patient care coordinator, with two decades of experience navigating the complex financial side of medically necessary breast reduction and reconstruction surgery. She acts as a guide to patients, helping them understand their options and their expected out-of-pocket expense. The insurance industry can be complex and filled with jargon that makes you feel like you need a translator. At Harris Plastic Surgery, Joanne is that translator.

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