Is Breast Surgery Covered by National Health Insurance?

Hello.

This is Mams Plastic Surgery Clinic.

Today, I will summarize whether breast-related surgeries are covered by National Health Insurance.

Breast cancer reconstruction surgery

▶ National Health Insurance coverage possible

Reconstruction surgery whether using an implant or autologous tissue, can be covered.

This includes nipple and areola reconstruction and even tattooing.

The patient's out-of-pocket cost is roughly 50%, and for some items, only about 5%.

In other words, reconstruction after breast cancer treatment is recognized as part of treatment and recovery.

Accessory breast and gynecomastia surgery

▶ National Health Insurance coverage possible

This also applies to accessory breast tissue in women and gynecomastia, which commonly appears in men.

However, only gland removal is recognized, so keep in mind that cosmetic elements such as liposuction or accessory nipple removal are not covered.

Breast reduction surgery (macromastia surgery)

▷ National Health Insurance coverage not available

Even if there are treatment-related problems such as pain, dermatitis, or shoulder indentation, breast reduction surgery is classified as an elective, non-covered cosmetic procedure.

Breast augmentation Breast lift Inverted nipple correction Nipple reduction Areola surgery

are all classified as cosmetic purposes, so National Health Insurance coverage is not available.

Non-covered procedures classified by the government as cosmetic are also difficult to be covered by private indemnity insurance.

To summarize

Breast cancer reconstruction surgery ▶ Covered by National Health Insurance Accessory breast, gynecomastia surgery ▶ Only gland removal is covered Breast reduction, nipple surgery ▷ Non-covered cosmetic procedures

I hope this helped clarify the information that may have been confusing and on your mind for some time.

We will continue to provide accurate and compassionate information.

Thank you.