Introduction
Breast pore reduction surgery, also known as breast reduction surgery, is a significant procedure for many individuals in New York City. It can alleviate physical discomfort associated with large breasts, such as neck, back, and shoulder pain, and also boost self - confidence. In this article, we will explore the hospitals that are highly regarded by word - of - mouth for this surgery in New York City, and also take a detailed look at the price lists.
What is Breast Reduction Surgery?
Breast reduction surgery, or reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure aimed at reducing the size of the breasts by removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin. This procedure not only addresses physical symptoms but also has psychological benefits for patients who may feel self - conscious about their breast size.
There are different surgical techniques used in breast reduction. One common method is the keyhole or lollipop incision, where an incision is made from the breast fold to the nipple - areolar complex, in a circle around the areola, and terminated at the breast fold. The width of the keyhole depends on the amount of reduction desired. Another technique is the anchor or T - incision, which involves three separate incisions: a circular one around the areola, a vertical one from the areola to the breast fold, and a horizontal one along the breast fold. This is used when a large amount of tissue and skin needs to be removed. Liposuction can also be used in conjunction with these techniques to remove excess fatty tissue (source: What is the Average Cost of Breast Reduction in NYC?).
Top Hospitals in New York City for Breast Reduction Surgery
U.S. News - Ranked Hospitals
U.S. News evaluated 207 hospitals in New York, and 33 of them meet high standards and are ranked in the state. Some of the top - ranked hospitals in New York City are well - known for their plastic surgery departments, which may offer excellent breast reduction services.
- New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell: Ranked #1 in New York, it is nationally ranked in 14 adult specialties and 10 pediatric specialties. It also has high - performing ratings in 1 specialty and 20 procedures/conditions. While it may not be specifically stated that it is top - notch for breast reduction surgery, its overall high ranking in multiple specialties indicates a high - level of medical expertise and resources.
- Mount Sinai Hospital: Also ranked #1 in New York, it is nationally ranked in 12 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties, with high - performing ratings in 20 procedures/conditions. Mount Sinai has a team of highly trained and qualified plastic surgeons who are expert at enhancing women’s breasts through their warm, caring, and supportive approach to patient care (source: Breast Reduction Surgery NYC | Mount Sinai - New York). Patients considering breast reduction here can expect comprehensive pre - and post - operative care.
- NYU Langone Hospitals: Nationally ranked in 13 adult specialties and 3 pediatric specialties, with high - performing ratings in 1 specialty and 20 procedures/conditions. NYU Langone's plastic surgery department may be well - equipped to handle breast reduction surgeries, given its strong standing in multiple medical areas.
Specialty Centers
In addition to large, well - known hospitals, there are also specialty centers that focus specifically on breast reduction surgery.
- Breast Reduction Center of NYC: Located on the upper east side in Manhattan, this center is the premier destination for breast reduction plastic surgery. The breast reduction specialist surgeons here are top - rated board - certified/board - eligible plastic surgeons. They offer top - quality surgical care in a state - of - the - art facility without the impersonal experience and paperwork of large - scale hospitals. The center uses innovative pain management techniques, such as a nerve block, which eliminates the need for prescription pain medicine after surgery. Patients only need over - the - counter Tylenol and ibuprofen for recovery. The center also offers virtual consultations for patients from anywhere in the world (source: Breast Reduction Center of NYC).
Price List for Breast Reduction Surgery in New York City
The cost of breast reduction surgery in New York City can vary depending on several factors. These factors include the surgeon's expertise, the type of facility where the surgery is performed, the associated surgical center and anesthesia fees, and the type of practice the plastic surgeon maintains.
Cost Based on Facility Type
According to Sidecar Health, the average cash price for breast reduction surgery care in New York differs between surgery centers and outpatient hospitals.
| Facility Type | Average Cash Price |
|---|---|
| Surgery Center | $6,051 |
| Outpatient Hospital | $10,439 |
A common breast reduction surgery at a surgery center facility in New York includes the following components:
| Component | Units | Avg Cash Price |
|---|---|---|
| Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon Visit (First Time Visit) | Standard 1 | $142 |
| Provider Fee for Breast Reduction | Standard | $1,650 |
| Surgery Center Fee for Breast Reduction | Standard | $3,162 |
| Prescriptions (Hydrocodone - Acetaminophen) | Standard 30 | $18 |
| Anesthesiologist Fee to be "Put Under" for Procedure (Level 3) | Standard 1 | $232 |
| Anesthesiologist Time to be "Put Under" for Procedure (Per Minute) | Standard 367 | $846 |
At an outpatient hospital, the components are as follows:
| Component | Units | Avg Cash Price |
|---|---|---|
| Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon Visit (First Time Visit) | Standard 1 | $142 |
| Provider Fee for Breast Reduction | Standard | $1,650 |
| Outpatient Hospital Fee for Breast Reduction (Level 2) | Standard 1 | $7,550 |
| Prescriptions (Hydrocodone - Acetaminophen) | Standard 30 | $18 |
| Anesthesiologist Fee to be "Put Under" for Procedure (Level 3) | Standard 1 | $232 |
| Anesthesiologist Time to be "Put Under" for Procedure (Per Minute) | Standard 367 | $846 |
It's important to note that while surgery centers may offer fewer complimentary services and may not have the full range of support services that outpatient hospitals provide, they can save patients about 42% when compared to the cost of breast reduction surgery at an outpatient hospital (source: Cost of breast reduction surgery in New York | Sidecar Health).
Other Cost - Influencing Factors
Geography plays a role in the cost of breast reduction surgery. In New York City, where there is a high density of plastic surgeons, board - certified plastic surgeons with advanced training and well - established practices may charge more. Surgeons with the highest level of training look to stand out in the competitive market, and their expertise is often reflected in a higher price. For example, very experienced high - quality surgeons on Park Avenue may charge above $30,000, while the lowest - end prices can start from around $10,000.
The type of practice the plastic surgeon maintains can also affect the cost. Some surgeons see a large number of patients in a day, with less time and attention per patient, and may charge less due to volume. In such cases, patients may often be seen by a lower - level provider (PA, RN) for many of their post - operative follow - up visits. On the other hand, some surgeons prefer to minimize patient overload to provide each patient with a large amount of individualized care, which comes at a higher cost (source: What is the Average Cost of Breast Reduction in NYC?).
Insurance Coverage for Breast Reduction Surgery
Conservative breast reduction surgery is often considered a cosmetic procedure. However, if breast reduction is being performed as part of the treatment for persistent medical issues, it may be considered medically necessary and therefore covered by insurance.
Insurance companies may look for specific criteria to determine medical necessity. These criteria include the presence of medical problems such as shoulder, back, or neck pain caused by large breasts; significant grooving in the shoulders from bra straps; bad posture characterized by hunched shoulders and a curved back; limitations on physical activity due to breast size; headaches or nerve compression syndromes due to the weight of the breasts; and rashes or infections on the trapped skin under the breasts.
At the Breast Reduction Center of NYC, they aim to remove approximately 50% of the breast volume to reasonably expect to treat the signs and symptoms patients experience, which can increase the likelihood of insurance coverage. It's important to understand the nuances of insurance, such as in - network vs out - of - network providers, payment schedules, and how the surgeon will plan to bill the insurance company. Insurance companies can also review claims within a certain time after surgery and recuperate any funds paid that are subsequently deemed frivolous.
Some insurance plans that the Breast Reduction Center of NYC accepts include Cigna, United Healthcare, and Oxford (but not United Healthcare Community Plan and Oxford Metro plans). They may accept the Empire Plan (NYSHIP), Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Aetna plans only if the patient has out - of - network benefits. Unfortunately, they do not accept Medicare, Medicaid, Medi - Cal, Tri - Care, Amida Care, Fidelis, and Metroplus plans. If a patient has a plan that is not accepted, they need to proceed as self - pay (source: Breast Reduction Center of NYC).
Top - Rated Surgeons in New York City for Breast Reduction
Choosing the right surgeon is crucial for a successful breast reduction surgery. Here are some of the top - rated surgeons in New York City based on patient reviews and certifications:
- Dr. Francesco Gargano, MD: Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the European Board of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Dr. Gargano has extensive global training. He is committed to individualized care and has developed strong principles emphasizing trust - building, patient safety, and satisfaction. His facility is well - equipped, with all the necessary equipment similar to that in a hospital, and he is well - supported by a board - certified anesthesia team and nursing staff (source: Best Breast Reduction Surgeons - NYC - Book Appointments Online).
- Dr. Michelle Zweifler, MD: A board - certified plastic surgeon and general surgeon, Dr. Zweifler specializes in facial rejuvenation, breast, and body contouring. She has received numerous honors and awards during her medical training and is on the staff at the prestigious Manhattan Eye, Ear & Throat Hospital and Lenox Hill Hospital. Her professional papers have been published in scientific journals, and she is a member of many professional societies at the local, state, and national levels.
- Dr. Brian Cohen, MD: The associate surgical director of the division of wound care and an attending physician in the division of plastic surgery at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn. Dr. Cohen has completed a comprehensive training program at top institutions in New York City, including Columbia University Medical Center and Weill - Cornell Medical Center. He has authored many internationally published journal articles and book chapters and has a special interest in wound healing as well as cosmetic procedures of the face, eyes, nose, breast, and body.
Patient Considerations Before Choosing a Hospital and Surgeon
Before deciding on a hospital and surgeon for breast reduction surgery, patients should consider several factors:
Surgeon's Experience and Credentials
It is essential to choose a board - certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast reduction surgery. Look for surgeons who are members of professional organizations such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Research their education, training, and any awards or recognition they have received. Reading patient reviews and testimonials can also provide insights into the surgeon's skills and bedside manner.
Hospital or Facility Quality
Consider the quality of the hospital or facility where the surgery will be performed. Look at its reputation, safety record, and the availability of support services. For example, some facilities may offer post - operative rehabilitation programs or counseling services, which can be beneficial for the patient's overall recovery. Also, consider the location of the facility, as it should be convenient for follow - up visits.
Cost and Insurance
Understand the total cost of the surgery, including all associated fees such as surgeon's fees, anesthesia fees, and facility fees. Check with your insurance company to see if the surgery is covered and what your out - of - pocket expenses will be. If you need to pay out - of - pocket, discuss payment options with the surgeon's office. Some surgeons may offer financing plans to help manage the cost.
Personal Comfort and Communication
During the consultation process, pay attention to how comfortable you feel with the surgeon and their staff. Effective communication is key, as you need to be able to discuss your concerns, expectations, and goals openly. A good surgeon will take the time to listen to you and provide clear and honest information about the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes.
Conclusion
Breast reduction surgery is a life - changing procedure for many individuals in New York City. By choosing a highly - regarded hospital and an experienced surgeon, patients can increase the likelihood of a successful outcome. The top - ranked hospitals such as New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell, Mount Sinai Hospital, and NYU Langone Hospitals offer high - quality medical care, while specialty centers like the Breast Reduction Center of NYC provide specialized and personalized services. Understanding the cost factors and insurance coverage is also crucial for financial planning.
If you are considering breast reduction surgery, we encourage you to do thorough research, schedule consultations with multiple surgeons, and ask all the necessary questions. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about breast reduction surgery in New York City. Explore our other related articles on plastic surgery and healthcare to gain more knowledge and make an informed decision.
