What is the Cash Cost for a Bilateral DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction?

Question

I had a bilateral mastectomy prophylactically almost 10 years ago. The implants remain fairly soft, but one has 'bottomed out', causing a significant amount of pain and discomfort. It makes wearing a bra impossible, as the underwire doesn't stay in place, and exercise is even more uncomfortable. Since insurance is very unlikely to cover a second reconstruction for 'pain' complaints. I am considering implant replacement vs diep procedure. What is the ballpark cost of a bilateral diep?

Mark A. Schusterman, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear Loriliz - the cost for this surgery including hospitalization would be very prohibitive for most people...most likely close to six figures. Your insurance company should cover the surgery without question. I switch out breast implant reconstruction for DIEP's all the time and have never been turned down by an insurance provider.

Paul Gill, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.   The wonderful news is that federal law mandates coverage of reconstruction and subsequent procedures.   I frequently see patients who are dissatisfied with their old implant reconstructions and desire to use their own abdominal tissue to reconstruct the breast.

	I have never had issue in regards to the insurance company covering this revision procedure.   I would recommend consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon with expertise in DIEP flap reconstruction.

	Dr. Gill

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Breast reconstruction is usually covered by insurance. Check it out first. Some surgeosn do not "take insurance" and the patient pays "out of pocket."

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

If you are having problems with your breast reconstruction using implants and are interested in using autologous tissue such as a DIEP flap most insurance companies will approve this procedure. Your next step is to go to a plastic surgeon experienced with the procedure and have an examination and consultation.

Samir Shureih, MD · Answer

Your insurance should pay for the revision breast reconstruction and that should include DIEP flap if that is what you want

What is the Cash Cost for a Bilateral DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction?

Answers (6)