Does insurance cover elective mastectomy?
Insurance coverage No federal laws require insurance companies to cover prophylactic mastectomy. Some state laws require coverage for prophylactic mastectomy, but coverage varies state to state. It’s best to check with your insurance company to learn about your plan’s coverage. Learn more about health insurance.
Is a skin sparing mastectomy the same as a subcutaneous mastectomy?
SSM includes resection of the nipple-areola complex, the biopsy scar, and removal of the breast parenchyma. Subcutaneous mastectomy involves removal of most of the breast tissue with preservation of the nipple-areola complex.
How much does a total mastectomy cost?
Some women need a mastectomy to treat breast cancer. This surgery is expensive on its own, and is frequently paired with chemotherapy. On average, the procedure costs about $13,000, which does not include any sort of reconstruction.
Who is a candidate for skin sparing mastectomy?
Skin sparing is possible as part of simple mastectomies, as well as those that involve the removal of lymph nodes under the arm if cancer has spread to these areas. Most people with breast cancer are potential candidates for a skin sparing mastectomy.
Can I choose to have a mastectomy?
When cancer invades one breast, many women opt to remove both. Two new studies highlight the trend toward elective double mastectomy. An increasing number of women diagnosed with cancer in one breast are choosing to have both breasts removed.
How long does a subcutaneous mastectomy take?
SCM surgery usually takes 2-4 hours in the operating room. SCM does not have any effect on hormone levels. SCM does not cause loss of fertility but, does cause loss of ability to breast feed. SCM may require a mammogram before surgeon will perform procedure.
For what reason may a subcutaneous mastectomy be performed?
Subcutaneous mastectomy is the surgical procedure of removing all of the breast tissue through an incision. It allows the surgeon to spare the skin, areola, and nipple, leaving them intact. It is indicated for women suffering from different breast-related diseases including cancer.
Does insurance pay for a double mastectomy?
In most cases, yes, as long as the insurance plan also covers medical and surgical benefits for mastectomies.
What is recovery time for mastectomy?
Average recovery time after mastectomy and reconstruction is about 3-4 weeks, but may be up to 6-8 weeks. During that time, there may be restrictions against driving and activities that involve lifting or raising the arms up over the head.