Tubular breasts surgery, cost?

Question

I have recently found out I have tubular breasts that can only be treated by surgery. Can surgery be covered by a medical card in Ireland. If not then how much would it be?

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

Kate Photos would help, however generally speaking, breast augmentation combined with treatment of constricted breasts is usually considered cosmetic and not covered by most insurance plans. Fees for this surgery vary from city to city, and cost for this operation in New York City runs between $10,000 and  $18,000. Breast augmentation technique in patients with all types of constricted breasts differ, depending on the degree of constricted breasts. Be sure to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon with lots of experience with constricted breasts. Good luck!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Hi kate1323,
  
Tuberous breasts are not simply small or underdeveloped breasts. The appearance of the breast can range from mild to severe, and typical traits include: enlarged, puffy areola, rather wide spacing between the breasts, very little breast tissue, sagging, higher than normal inferior breast fold, and narrow base at the chest wall. 
  
The type of surgery best for you will depend on the severity of your condition. 
  
My preferred technique for tuberous breast correction involves a multistep procedure where the breast tissue is released in a radial pattern to prevent herniation into the areola and placement of a custom implant size is in the breast to allow appropriate expansion of the breast in the restricted dimensions. This can often be done in a single procedure but sometimes may require two surgeries.
  
When it comes to sizing, we have all of our patients find 3 photos of their desired breast size. We ask for naked breast photos because clothing can obscure the true size (push up bras). Next, we consult with patients and go over the photos and take detailed breast measurements during a physical exam. Next, we using a sizing algorithm to determine a range of implants that will work based on the exam and the measurements. 
  
Lastly, during the operation, we use silicone sizers in the operating room to see how the size actually looks in the breast. We sit the patient up in the operating room, while asleep of course, and compare the sizer result with their desired look photos. If it is too small, we start the process over with a slightly larger implant. We don't stop until we get the perfect match. 
  
Of all of my breast augmentation patients, every one of them has been happy with their size due to this detailed and meticulous process. You don't want to invest time and money into a result that is either too big or too small.
  The cost of the surgery will depend on several factors including the geographical location, the type of surgery that will be performed, the type and size of implants that will be used, the type of anesthesia, and the plastic surgeon's experience and credentials among others.
That said, it is best that you visit a board-certified plastic surgeon for an in person examination. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
  
Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS
  
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
  
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
  
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Luis A. Mejia, MD · Answer

hello thank you for your question and provided information as well;..based in your question its difficulted evaluate your case if the question dont have a picture, its recommended to get a consultation in personal with a plastic surgeon.

Finny George, MD · Answer

Hi, thank you for your question. 
If you have confirmed your diagnosis with a certified plastic surgeon, he/she may be able to tell you how much it would cost in Ireland or if it would be covered by medical insurance. 
In the US, it is rare for this deformity to be covered by insurance. The cost of the procedure can vary widely and range from $5,000 to $15,000. 
I hope this helps. Good luck in achieving your aesthetic goal!

Drew Davis, MD · Answer

Tuberous breasts can be treated with surgery with a wide range of results depending on the severity of the tuberous breast and the degree of asymmetry between the breasts.  I am unsure of the health care system in Ireland, but here some insurance companies will cover surgery for tuberous breasts.  It might be worth calling your insurance company to see if it is a covered benefit.  You could then call some plastic surgeon's offices to see how they handle insurance coverage for surgery or discuss this with the patient care coordinator after your consultation with a plastic surgeon.

Tubular breasts surgery, cost?

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