Men with gynecomastia often feel insecure and embarrassed about the condition, and these psychological hang-ups often cause them to seek medical treatment. Fortunately, gynecomastia surgery can correct the condition and create a contoured, more masculine chest. But how much does gynecomastia cost?
What Is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia refers to the enlargement of the male breast tissue, which is usually the result of a hormonal imbalance. The condition may affect one or both breasts. Men with gynecomastia may also have a build-up of fat in the chest area that makes the breasts look fuller.
What Is Gynecomastia Surgery?
Gynecomastia surgery or male breast reduction is a procedure that reduces overdeveloped male breasts. Surgery involves the removal of excess glandular tissue using excision. In some cases, excess fat may also need to be removed with liposuction.
Gynecomastia is an outpatient procedure that typically takes 1-2 hours to perform, but the duration may vary depending on the amount of fat being removed.
How Much Does Gynecomastia Surgery Cost?
According to the latest statistics from the American Society Of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of gynecomastia surgery is $4,123. However, the final price tag can vary significantly from the average, as there are related expenses not included in the quoted cost.
Factors That Affect The Cost Of Gynecomastia Surgery
- Surgeon’s Fees
The surgeon’s fee is dependent on the experience, reputation, and expertise of the surgeon. When selecting a surgeon for gynecomastia surgery, patients should choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with significant experience treating gynecomastia.
- Anesthesia Fees
Gynecomastia patients have the option of choosing between general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. Surgery undertaken using general anesthesia is usually more expensive.
- Who Administers Anesthesia
Anesthesia may be administered by an anesthesiologist or a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA). Anesthesiologists typically charge more per hour.
- Extent Of The Operation
Some patients may need gynecomastia surgery that involves only tissue reduction, while others may need both tissue reduction via excision and liposuction. The cost of surgery usually increases the more extensive the procedure.
- Where Surgery Is Performed
Surgery at the surgeon’s surgical facility is typically less expensive than at a hospital.
- Geographic Location Of The Practice
The cost of gynecomastia surgery varies by region, and prices may differ in the same area depending on the cost of living index and overhead expenses.
If you are interested in gynecomastia surgery, it is best to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon for a detailed cost estimate so that you can make an informed decision about surgery.
Is Gynecomastia Covered by Insurance?
Most insurance companies don’t cover the cost of gynecomastia surgery because it is considered an elective procedure. However, insurance providers differ, and some companies will cover the cost of gynecomastia surgery proven to be medically necessary.
Patients not eligible for insurance coverage will have to pay for surgery out-of-pocket.
Fortunately, financing is available through companies like CareCredit. CareCredit is a healthcare credit card that offers financing for various cosmetic treatments and procedures. Some surgeons also offer patient financing plans for male breast reduction.
Is Gynecomastia Worth It?
For most men suffering from gynecomastia, male breast reduction surgery is entirely worth the investment because it resolves underlying body insecurities and improves the overall quality of life. Patients typically feel more confident and self-assured after gynecomastia surgery.
Gynecomastia surgery is a straightforward cosmetic procedure that results in minimal scarring and produces long-lasting results.
If gynecomastia is causing you undue distress and anxiety, surgery may be the right option for you. While male breast reduction may require significant financial investment, patients agree that it is certainly worth it in the long run.