I am 70 years old and my breasts are large and sagging. Will insurance pay for this?

Dear Exciting508151,
insurance won't cover the costs of breast lift surgery. In some cases they will cover breast reduction costs. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

If you have well documented proof that your breast are causing your back issues, and you have incredible insurance, you may be able to have it covered. I recommend calling your insurance company and asking. It is rare that insurance will unless the breast are extremely large or documented issues. As for the cost, it would depend on the complexity of your procedure, skin elasticity, amount of reduction needed, asymmetry corrections, etc. I would call insurance first, then if they cover it, choose a board certified plastic surgeon. If you would like to be seen for a consultation here at Smith Plastic Surgery, reach out to my office to arrange a consultation 702-838-2455

An in person evaluation is needed to determine if what you want and need is cosmetic or reconstructive. Cosmetic surgery is not covered by insurance. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Insurance may pay for breast reduction but they usually require large volume to be removed. You may not meet their criteria. The technique I recommend is The Bellesoma Method. This will reduce and reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage. The weight of the breast is transferred to the underlying pectoralis major muscle resulting in pain relief without excessive reduction. Vertical scars are avoided and nipple sensation is maintained. Insurance does not cover this technique and the cost is $14,000.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Insurance does not cover a breast lift but may cover a reduction if you have enough tissue removed. I would suggest meeting with a plastic surgeon and discussing your options and concerns.

Each insurance policy has its own criteria for what it will cover. Insurance does not pay for a breast lift alone, but if you are interested in a breast reduction which includes lifting the breasts, you may qualify. Check with your carrier and schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon near you.

Thanks for your question. Most insurance companies do not cover cosmetic/plastic surgery procedures, unless you have a condition that may require more than just aesthetics. You must get a full evaluation with a Plastic Surgeon to determine what you qualify for.