Breast surgeries are considered
to be cosmetic or reconstructive procedures based on the purpose of the surgery. Cosmetic surgery is performed to reshape parts of the body to
improve a person's appearance and bolster their self-esteem. Reconstructive surgery is performed to correct problems that interfere with a function
of the body or to approximate a normal appearance.
Reconstructive surgery is covered by most health insurance policies, though levels of coverage for specific procedures vary greatly
according to the specifics of each individual policy. Cosmetic surgery is generally not covered by health insurance. For more information, see
our section on costs and financing for cosmetic surgery procedures.
Breast reduction, or reduction mammaplasty, is a procedure to reduce the size of large breasts that is performed for physical relief as well as for cosmetic reasons.
Many women have benefited from breast reconstruction as a means to restore their natural feminine curves and avoid insecurities that might be otherwise experienced.