Overly large, heavy breasts can cause general discomfort as well as lead to other health issues, such as neck and back pain. To assist with covering the costs of the procedure, breast reduction Medicare rebates may be given if the procedure is considered as medically necessary.
Read on to learn more about breast reduction surgery and how to check your eligibility for a Medicare rebate.
What is breast reduction surgery?
Breast reduction surgery involves steps to reduce the size and weight of the breasts, including removing excess tissue, fat and skin.
By reducing the size of overly large breasts, breast reduction surgery can:
- Improve posture, reducing pain in the neck, back and shoulders
- Prevent headaches caused by neck, back and shoulder pain
- Relieve skin rashes and infections caused by excessive sweating and chafing of the skin under the breasts
- Achieve symmetrical breasts
- Improve the size of the breasts in proportion with the patient’s body shape
- Reduce the size and correct the placement of stretched nipples
- Create a desired aesthetic
- Improve overall comfort levels
- Make fitting into clothing and bra’s easier and more comfortable
- Boost confidence levels
The surgical steps of a breast reduction are tailored to each patient’s unique needs and personal aesthetic goals. Therefore, each patient can be supported by their surgeon to achieve their desired results of the procedure.
Are you eligible for a Medicare rebate?
Generally, Medicare rebates may be given to a patient if the surgery is considered to be medically necessary, to address a concern that could be having a negative impact on overall health or quality of life. Procedures undergone for purely aesthetic purposes are typically not eligible for a Medicare rebate.
Medically necessary reasons to undergo a breast reduction procedure can include if patients are suffering from skin rashes or infections, body pain such as neck, back or shoulder pain, posture issues and other health conditions and discomfort.
Typically, patients who have been unable to treat the issues caused by overly large breasts with other non-surgical measures, such as with medication, may be eligible for a Medicare rebate. Patients who have been experiencing neck, back or shoulder pain for more than six months as a result of overly large breasts may also be eligible.
To receive a breast reduction Medicare rebate, patient’s will need a medical referral from their General Practitioner (GP), confirming that the procedure is a medical necessity.
Breast reduction Medicare item numbers
Dr Andrew Broadhurst will select the right Medicare item number for you. As a guide:
- Bilateral breast reduction Medicare item number 45523 (surgery performed on both breasts) can be applicable to those who need the surgery to relieve neck, back or shoulder pain.
- Patients may also be eligible for unilateral breast reduction Medicare item number 45520, (surgery performed on one breast only).
You may wish to receive your referral from your GP before your initial consultation with your surgeon, or after your first consultation. A referral will need to be accompanied by documentation of the health concerns that the overly large breasts are causing.
If you qualify for a breast reduction Medicare rebate, you may also be able to receive assistance from private health insurance cover that you may have. We recommend checking with your private health insurance provider and reading through the conditions of your specific policy.
Where should I go for a breast reduction procedure?
Ideally, a breast reduction procedure should be performed by a knowledgeable and highly experienced Specialist Plastic Surgeon, who specialises in breast procedures.
This way, the likelihood of achieving the desired results is higher, while the potential risks and complications can be minimised. A breast reduction requires a high level of skill to be performed as successfully as possible, including thorough knowledge of the structure of the breast and the most effective and advanced surgical techniques.
Specialist Plastic Surgeon: Dr Andrew Broadhurst
Dr Broadhurst performs potentially life-changing breast reduction procedures in high demand locations, such as Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Bundaberg, and Hervey Bay.
As one of Australia’s most highly regarded Specialist Plastic Surgeons, Dr Broadhurst uses his thorough expertise and experience to provide a supportive, empowering and patient-centred surgical journey.
If you have any questions about how to check your eligibility for a Medicare rebate, and how to receive the rebate, feel free to contact our friendly team today. Additionally, Dr Broadhurst can provide you with in person advice during your initial consultation, after which you may choose to get a referral from your GP.
