Average Cost of Breast Reduction Surgery in 2024 - Top Cities and States
Content
For countless women, breast reduction surgery is a pivotal turning point in their lives. It can relieve physical discomfort, improve body proportions, and boost self-confidence. In fact, over 100,000 patients in the U.S. get this transformative surgery each year [1].
Many prospective patients ask, “What are typical breast reduction costs in 2024?” On average, it costs $6,771 [2]. But the total price varies depending on factors like your location, surgeon’s fees, facility costs, and the complexity of your case. Generally, expect to pay anywhere from $4,000 to over $15,000 for the procedure. You can use our breast reduction surgery cost calculator to get an estimate for your procedure.
Average breast reduction cost by city and state
The average cost of breast reduction surgery differs based on where you get it done:
New York City, New York
In the Big Apple, the average cost of breast reduction surgery is around $6,000 at a surgery center. If you go to an outpatient hospital for the procedure, you may pay up to $10,500 or more.
Los Angeles, California
The average breast reduction cost in LA is $13,780 — with prices ranging from $12,560 to $15,000. This is higher than in NYC but more affordable than in San Francisco.
San Francisco, California
Breast reduction surgery costs anywhere from $18,000 to $50,000 in San Francisco. You’ll pay more if you choose a sought-after surgeon in the Bay Area.
San Jose, California
Most patients in San Jose pay between $15,000 and $25,000 for a breast reduction procedure.
Sacramento, California
In California’s capital city, the average cost of breast reduction surgery falls between $9,500 and $10,500. This is high, but way more affordable than in San Francisco, San Jose, and LA.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is a popular destination for plastic surgery. On average, women pay $11,500 for breast reduction here. Prices range from $4,000 to $15,000.
Miami, Florida
Miami is another hotspot for cosmetic surgery. Patients pay an average of $5,250 for breast reduction in this sunny city. Prices span from $3,500 to $7,000.
Dallas, Texas
In Dallas, breast reduction surgery costs an average of $8,450.
Houston, Texas
Houston’s average cost for breast reduction surgery starts at $7,500. This is close to the national average of just under $7,000.
Chicago, Illinois
The Windy City’s average cost for breast reduction surgery is $10,500. In Chicago, women pay anywhere from $8,000 to $13,000 for the procedure.
Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix’s average cost for breast reduction surgery is around $8,500.
What factors affect the cost of breast reduction surgery?
As you can see, breast reduction costs vary quite a bit from place to place. But what exactly influences these price differences?
Area of the breasts: Larger breasts need more time and skill to reduce, which increases the cost.
Amount of tissue to be removed: More extensive reductions involving more tissue removal are pricier.
Technique used: Advanced techniques (if needed) may cost more.
Geographic location: Prices are higher in major metro and coastal areas than in small cities and rural areas.
Surgeon’s expertise and reputation: Board-certified plastic surgeons with many years of experience charge higher fees for their expertise.
Facility fees: Operating room and surgical supply fees vary in a hospital vs. a private surgical center.
Anesthesia fees: The type and duration of anesthesia used impact the total cost.
Post-operative care: Follow-up visits, medications, and specialized recovery garments add to the expense.
Consultation fee: Some surgeons have a separate fee for the consultation. Others apply it to the total surgery cost.
Insurance coverage: Insurance won’t cover breast reduction unless it’s for medical reasons.
Additional procedures: Combining breast reduction with other surgeries like a breast lift or liposuction drives up the cost.
Pre-operative tests: Required lab work or imaging to ensure you’re a good candidate for surgery may cost extra.
Types of breast reduction surgery
Your surgeon will use one of the following breast reduction surgery methods:
Traditional breast reduction
Traditional breast reduction is sometimes called the “inverted-T” or “anchor” method. Your surgeon makes an incision around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and horizontally along the fold under the breast. This technique allows them to remove significant amounts of excess skin and tissue. It’s ideal for patients with sagging and very large breasts. The average cost of a traditional breast reduction is around $7,000.
Liposuction-only breast reduction
For patients with good skin elasticity and minimal sagging, a liposuction-only breast reduction may be an option. This technique uses small incisions to remove excess fat from the breasts. Since the surgeon doesn’t remove any skin, this is practically a “scar-free” method. The average cost for this procedure is around $7,300. On the low end, patients pay $3,000. On the high end, almost $16,000.
Vertical (lollipop) breast reduction
Vertical breast reduction is also known as the lollipop method. Your surgeon makes an incision around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease. This technique allows for moderate tissue removal and breast reshaping, without the longer horizontal scar of the traditional method. The average cost for this type is around $11,000.
Additional costs to breast reduction surgery
Women getting breast reduction must account for expenses beyond the price of the surgery itself.
These can add up quickly, so factor them into your budget before you commit:
Medical tests
Anesthesia fees
Hospital or surgical facility costs
Post-surgery garments
Prescriptions for medication
Post-operative care
Surgeon’s fee
Travel and accommodation
Potential revision surgeries
Breast reduction weight requirements and other considerations
Reputable plastic surgeons recommend being at a stable, healthy weight before getting breast reduction surgery. Significant weight fluctuations post-surgery can hurt your results. Surgeons and insurance companies often require patients to have a body mass index (BMI) of less than 30.
During your consultation, your surgeon will check your breast size, shape, and skin elasticity to determine the best approach for your needs. They may ask about your lifestyle, medical history, and any medications you take. This helps them create a personalized treatment plan and set realistic expectations for results.
What size do your breasts need to be to consider reduction surgery?
There’s no hard and fast rule on how large your breasts need to be for a reduction. In general, patients who have physical discomfort or simply want smaller lifted breasts may be good candidates for the procedure.
Examples of physical discomfort include:
Neck and back pain
Shoulder grooving from bra straps
Skin irritation under the breasts
Emotional discomfort related to self-consciousness or unwanted attention due to large breasts is another valid reason to consider a reduction.
Unsure if this surgery is right for you? Schedule an initial consultation with a nearby board-certified plastic surgeon. They’ll assess your needs and goals, and help you decide.
How long will breast reduction surgery results last?
Breast reduction surgery results are permanent. While your breasts may undergo some natural changes, they’ll be smaller and more proportionate than they were before surgery. After recovery, breast reduction patients enjoy the benefits of a lighter, more comfortable bust line.
To maintain your results, follow a healthy lifestyle — including a balanced diet and regular exercise. Wearing a supportive bra and protecting your skin from sun damage also helps keep your breasts in the best shape.
Risks of breast reduction surgery
You’ll be in good hands if you choose a qualified plastic surgeon for your breast reduction surgery. But going under the knife comes with risks.
It’s good to know about possible complications before you commit to the procedure:
Infection: Proper wound care and antibiotics help prevent infection after surgery.
Bleeding: Some bleeding is normal. However, patients may need special treatment if they experience excessive bleeding.
Anesthesia risks: Reactions to anesthesia are rare but can be serious.
Irregular contouring: Uneven or asymmetrical results may happen. Revision surgery can fix this but adds to the total investment.
Fluid accumulation: Seromas, or pockets of fluid, can develop under the skin. In this case, your surgeon would need to drain it.
Numbness: Temporary or permanent numbness in the breasts or nipples is possible due to nerve damage.
Changes in breast sensation: Some patients experience increased or decreased breast sensitivity after surgery.
Asymmetry: Slight differences in breast shape, size, or position may be more noticeable after surgery.
Scarring: Scars are often inevitable, but most fade over time.
Loss of nipple and areola sensation: In rare cases, patients may lose feeling in their nipples or areolas.
Inability to breastfeed: Some patients get decreased milk production after surgery.
Need for revision surgery: Some women need more surgeries to refine their results or address complications.
Does insurance cover the cost of breast reduction surgery?
Insurance only covers breast reduction surgery if it’s for a valid medical reason. You may get coverage if you’re experiencing chronic pain, skin irritation, or other health issues related to large breasts. Insurance companies typically require a large volume reduction of the breasts to qualify. But if you’re getting breast reduction for cosmetic reasons, you’ll have to pay out of pocket.
Your surgeon must submit detailed documentation to your insurance provider to determine if your procedure is eligible for coverage. This includes your medical history, symptoms, and photos of your breasts. The insurance company will review this information. Then, they’ll decide to approve or deny coverage.
Remember: Even if your procedure gets approved, you may still be responsible for deductibles, copays, or coinsurance costs.
Are there financing options for breast reduction surgery?
Financing options are available if:
Your insurance won’t cover breast reduction surgery costs
You need help with out-of-pocket expenses
Many plastic surgeons offer in-house payment plans. Or, they’ll partner with third-party financing companies to help patients afford their procedures.
One popular option is CareCredit. It’s a healthcare credit card that lets you pay for your procedure over time in monthly installments. Depending on your chosen plan, you may secure low-interest or even interest-free financing for a certain period.
Discuss all financing options with your surgeon during the consultation to find the best solution for your budget.
Is breast reduction surgery a permanent solution?
Yes, breast reduction surgery provides long-lasting results. The removed breast tissue won’t grow back. So, you can expect your breasts to remain smaller and lighter than they were before surgery. But your breasts may change over time due to aging, weight fluctuations, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and hormone levels.
Is breast reduction surgery worth the money?
For many women, the answer to this question is a resounding yes. Breast reduction surgery can provide amazing benefits — both physically and emotionally.
Patients often report major relief from neck and back pain, skin irritation, and discomforts associated with large breasts. They also enjoy ease and comfort in daily activities, from exercising to fitting better in clothing.
Besides physical benefits, breast reduction surgery improves a woman’s self-image and confidence. Many feel more proportionate and comfortable in their skin after, which leads to a better quality of life.
Of course, the decision is personal and depends on your unique circumstances and goals. Weigh the potential benefits against the risks, costs, and recovery time involved. And when in doubt, get guidance from a board-certified plastic surgeon.
Burbank Plastic Surgery | Breast reduction in California
Are you considering breast reduction surgery in Southern California? Burbank Plastic Surgery is an excellent choice. Dr. Orloff’s 26 years of experience, exceptional training, and passion for helping patients feel confident make him a top choice for cosmetic surgery. Schedule a consultation with us today to learn more about your options.
Sources:
1. WebMD, “Breast Reduction Surgery: An Overview.”
2. American Society of Plastic Surgeons, “How much does breast reduction cost?”