Gynecomastia (male breast enlargement) can be effectively corrected with a breast reduction plastic surgery procedure.
In the case of gynecomastia, medical insurance coverage may be possible. However, the underlying reasons for the development of the condition may be considered.
For this reason, a patient should have clarity on the approximate costs of the procedure, in case they need to bear the costs of the surgery out of pocket. A responsible surgeon will make sure that the patient receives full information about male breast reduction and its associated costs to make an enlightened decision.
Board certified plastic surgeons at the Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery (ACPS) provide gynecomastia surgery to patients in Houston, Texas, TX, and surrounding locations.
Cost Factors
Male breast reduction or gynecomastia surgery costs may differ between practices, and in some instances, even vary between two patients at the same practice. The below mentioned aspects usually impact the costs:
Geographical Location of the Practice
Gynecomastia costs at a practice located in a main metropolitan city or prime urban center are likely to be more than those at a practice situated in a relatively smaller town.
The overhead and real estate costs are usually higher in prime locations, and this affects the average costs of most goods and services, including plastic surgery procedures.
Surgeon’s Charges
The surgeon’s fee usually depends on their credentials, experience, and reputation in the area of cosmetic surgery. In general, board certified plastic surgeons invest in the highest quality standards and best practices, adopt the most advanced surgical techniques, pursue on-going education, and follow the latest safety protocols.
The ASPS advises patients to work with the best surgeon for their needs. Factors such as the surgeon’s charges should only be a secondary consideration in this decision.
Anesthesia and Surgical Venue Costs
In case gynecomastia surgery is undertaken using general anesthesia, it will necessitate the services of an anesthesiologist or a certified nurse anesthetist.
Their charges may differ depending on their qualifications. They will remain in attendance throughout the surgical procedure to monitor the patient’s response to the anesthesia.
The surgeon may undertake breast reduction surgery at an accredited surgery center, a hospital, or a private surgical suite. Each option has associated costs and benefits, and the patient can make an appropriate decision in discussion with their surgeon.
Additional Expenses
The gynecomastia surgery cost estimate should account for additional expenses such as the costs of medical tests, prescription drugs, and post-operative appointments with the surgeon. In addition, working professionals should consider the cost implications of taking a break from work for post-op recovery.
Extent of Surgery
While some patients may need tissue reduction in only on breast, others may require it in both. In case there is no glandular tissue present, the surgeon may only undertake liposuction. In other cases, the patient may require both liposuction and excision.
Is Gynecomastia Surgery covered by Medical Insurance?
A majority of gynecomastia surgery cases will not be eligible for insurance coverage. But each insurance policy differs significantly. Patients should carefully review the terms of their policy to determine coverage.
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons has published a position paper for doctors and insurance providers defining the recommended criteria for reconstructive gynecomastia cases. Patients should ask the surgeon for a copy of this document to submit to their insurance company.
Cosmetic surgeons at the ACPS receive patients from Houston, Texas, TX, and nearby areas for male breast reduction.
For more information about The Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery (ACPS) physicians and the cosmetic surgery treatments and procedures they perform please click here or call us at 713.799.9999. We have offices in and around Houston, Texas.
Click here to see our pricing list.