Breast lift covered by BC Medical?

Question

I recently went to a consult to talk about options (lift/implants) the Dr stated that I am the perfect candidate for a lift alone as my breast, though saggy, still have a fair amount of tissue. My question is, are lifts covered through BC medical? Because my breasts are so saggy, and bottom heavy, it's hard to find proper bras, and at the end of the day my breasts are super sore from being in a bra, and if I don't have one on its painful as well.

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

From your description it seems as if you are a good candidate for breast reduction. Unfortunately, each insurance company has their own criteria. Large breasts (macromastia) or breast hypertrophy can occur in a variety of conditions (family trait, post pregnancy, excessive adolescent growth). In general when the excessive breast size causes functional problems, insurance will generally pay for the operation if more than 400 – 500 grams are removed from each breast dependent on your individual insurance company requirements. These problems may include neck pain, back or shoulder pain, hygiene difficulty, and breast pain. Other problems which are less likely to be covered by insurance include skin irritation, skeletal deformity, breathing problems, psychological/emotional problems, and interference with normal daily activities. Pre-authorization by the insurance company is required prior to surgery, and the process takes approximately one month. Each insurance policy has different guidelines and exclusions.This procedure is commonly covered by insurance through insurance criteria are becoming more and more restrictive. Although we do not accept insurance, our staff will assist you in obtaining pre-authorization so that you can attempt to be reimbursed for out of pocket expenses

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Things may be different in Canada (though I don't think so), but here in the states, breast lift surgery is considered an elective cosmetic procedure. However, certain breast reductions are covered although it depends on a number of factors including the amount of tissue removed. Hope this helps.

Richard Zienowicz, MD · Answer

Breast reductions may be covered but breast lifts are considered cosmetic and not covered by insurance.

Thomas Trevisani, MD · Answer

Breast lift is considered - a cosmetic/elective procedure- not a medical issue-  it's aesthetic. Therefore, in my opinion, I do not believe that insurance will cover it.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, breast lift is considered cosmetic procedure. No insurance to my knowledge will cover cost of such a procedure.You should consult a plastic surgeon in your area and discuss your options. Good luck.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Breast lifts are considered by insurance companies to be an elective, aesthetic procedure, and not necessarily medically indicated.  A breast lift alone will not be covered by insurance, but if your breasts are large enough, and heavy enough, to warrant a reduction, then they may be covered, and you would obtain the equivalent of a lift in outcomes.  Hope that this helps.

Colin White, MD · Answer

Hello Nikib83,
No, unfortunately, a breast lift is not covered by MSP in BC. Breast reductions alone are covered by MSP and usually a breast lift is done as part of a breast reduction. However, if you seek a breast reduction the size of your breasts will get smaller. With just a breast lift your breast volume should stay similar to what it is now.
Good luck,

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. Breast reduction, but not breast lifting, surgery may be covered through Medi-cal  Best wishes.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Breast reductions may possibly be covered, but not breast lifts. Lifts are always considered elective and cosmetic, unless symmetry is being done after reconstructive surgery. Reconstructive surgery after cancer is  covered.

Jourdan Gottlieb, MD · Answer

Coverage almost never happens for breast lifting (save when done to match a breast treated for cancer). Insurers rightly consider this to be a cosmetic procedure. If your breasts are large and there are medical indications for breast reduction surgery, that is often covered.Thanks for your question, all the best.

Breast lift covered by BC Medical?

Answers (14)

More Breast Lift Questions

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (14)

More Breast Lift Questions

Crescent Lift vs. Benelli Lift?

Are payment plans an option for breast lift?

I am 20 years old and I have saggy breasts (34DD). Breast lift? (Photo)

Would lazer hair removal or a breast lift help with hidradenitis suppurativa? (Photo)

Can I sleep without a bra?

15 years old and 34DD in bra size. Could I qualify for a breast lift?

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS