Bilateral Breast Reduction Costs and Rebate Eligibility
- Dr Duncan Taylor's Practice
- Aug 12
- 2 min read
What to expect and how eligibility may affect your total out-of-pocket costs for a Bilateral Breast Reduction
If you’re considering breast reduction surgery, it’s important to understand the potential costs involved — and how Medicare or private health insurance eligibility may reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
Breast reduction is performed to remove excess breast tissue, fat, and skin, reducing breast size to help relieve discomfort, improve mobility, and restore proportion. At Dr Duncan Taylor’s practice, we provide clear, personalised guidance at every stage — starting with what to expect financially.
Medicare Rebate Eligibility for Breast Reduction Surgery
Some patients may be eligible for a Medicare rebate if the procedure is performed for medical (not cosmetic) reasons. To qualify for a Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) item number, you must meet specific clinical criteria, generally related to symptoms such as neck, back, or shoulder pain, skin irritation, or posture issues caused by large breasts.
Eligibility is assessed during your consultation with Dr Taylor and may require supporting medical documentation. If approved, and if you hold private hospital insurance, your insurer may contribute towards hospital-related costs, depending on your level of cover.
Please note: If lateral chest wall liposuction is included as part of the procedure, that component is considered cosmetic and is not eligible for Medicare or health fund rebates.
Surgical Costs
Surgeon’s Fee: From $10,000
+ Lateral Chest Wall Liposuction (if required): From $2,000
Other Costs to Consider
These fees are separate from the surgeon’s fee and vary depending on your circumstances:
Anaesthetist Fee – Out-of-pocket costs will apply
Hospital Fee – May be fully covered by comprehensive private health insurance if your surgery is performed for medical reasons.
If uninsured, hospital fees will apply.
If the liposuction component is required, this is considered cosmetic and a hospital fee will apply regardless of insurance, from $2,000 – $3,000 depending on the hospital.
Garments – Two post-surgical compression bras are required (purchased by the patient).
Next Steps
Every surgery is unique. During your consultation, Dr Duncan Taylor will:
Assess your eligibility for a Medicare and/or health fund rebate
Provide a detailed, personalised cost estimate
Explain the surgical plan, expected recovery, and potential risks
For more information on breast reduction surgery, including recovery expectations and associated risks, please contact our rooms to arrange a consultation.
