Is breast reduction at a teaching school more affordable?

Question

I am looking into a nyc teaching school. My breasts cause very bad sholder and back pains, that cause severe migraines. It stops me from even normal activities. Also causes a very aggravating skin irritation. Working out becomes pretty much impossible, unless i want to deal with terrible pain and irritation afterward. A few people have suggested a teaching school, and there is one around here in nyc. Are they usually more affordable?

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Your procedure should be performed by a #PlasticSurgeon who is board-certified and has a great deal of experience specializing in cosmetic #surgery. You will then greatly improve your chances of getting the result you desire, and, without the need for a revision surgery. It is suggested that you look at before and after photos of the surgeons actual patients, and read patient reviews. Gathering all of this information will help you make a well-informed decision.The costs for #BreastReduction varies by the following:Surgeon's expertise and experienceThe cost for anaesthesia and operating facilityThe geographic location you have the procedureEstimates can be obtained here on RealSelf , PlasticSurgery.org or Surgery.orgAlthough, #BreastReduction procedures are commonly covered by #insurance and required criteria, it is becoming more and more restrictive. Some practices do not accept insurance. However, ask the staff to assist you in obtaining pre-authorization so that you can attempt to be #reimbursed for out of pocket #expenses.

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Far more important than the technique is the skill and experience of your plastic surgeon. Choose your surgeon rather than the technique and let them explain why one technique may be better than another. See the below link on some suggestions on finding the most qualified Plastic Surgeon for a breast reduction. Also known as reduction mammoplasty, this is an operation intended to reduce the size of a woman’s breasts and improve their shape and position. Frequently, the areola (dark skin around the nipple) is also made smaller. Functional symptoms (medical disorders) caused by excessive breast weight may be relieved or improved by this operation.Women who have large, heavy breasts, which may be the cause of movement difficulties, back, shoulder and neck pain, poor posture, bra-strap indentations and chafing under the breasts will benefit from reduction. Women with excessive breast size, which may decrease a sense of attractiveness and self-confidence, are candidates.Large breasts that interfere with normal daily activities or with exercise will be more comfortable when reduced.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. Yes,  it is probable that you will be able to save money by having the surgery performed in a teaching hospital by a plastic surgery resident.  You will need to weigh this cost-saving to  the potential downsides associated with surgery performed by a less experienced surgeon.There is no doubt that a board-certified plastic surgeon will have a greater experience level than the plastic surgeon in training.  If I were in your shoes, I would suggest starting with the American Society of Plastic Surgery and/or the Aesthetic Society of Plastic Surgery to obtain a list of well experienced board-certified plastic surgeons.

Then, I would suggest you visit a few surgeons whose practices concentrate on aesthetic surgery. Ask to SEE lots of examples of their work AND preferably speak/see patients who have had similar procedures done.
Be very careful with your decision-making. You will find, while doing your due diligence, that there are many different “specialties” who will offer their services to you; again, I strongly recommend you concentrate on surgeons certified by the relevant Board of Plastic Surgery.
I would also suggest that you do not base your selection of plastic surgeon primarily on costs of surgery; keep in mind that revisionary surgery may be more costly in many ways. I hope this, and the attached link, helps. Best wishes.

Keith Denkler, MD · Answer

Operations by senior plastic surgeons at a teaching hospital can help with your out of pocket expenses.The surgery is long, so there will be costs for anesthesia and the OR fees.Overall there can be some savings.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

Kris,The answer is YES.  There are several teaching programs which offer PS clinics which are more affordable.  You must agree to having a plastic surgery resident performing your procedure under the watchful eye of a board certified Plastic Surgeon.Best of luck.

Is breast reduction at a teaching school more affordable?

Answers (7)

Answer: Teaching school can help

Answer: Teaching school can help

Answer: Teaching hospitals and clinic surgery

Answer: Teaching hospitals and clinic surgery

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Is breast reduction at a teaching school more affordable?

Answers (7)

Answer: Teaching school can help

Answer: Teaching school can help

Answer: Teaching hospitals and clinic surgery

Answer: Teaching hospitals and clinic surgery

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.