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Breast reconstruction with tissue expansion

The first of two surgeries to recreate one breast. At the same time as, or after a mastectomy, the specialist inserts an expandable/empty breast implant. They inflate the expander over 6-8 weeks, until it reaches the size you both agree on. Once ready, the expander is replaced with a definitive implant. The procedure is followed 3-6 months later with “Breast reconstruction with removal of tissue expansion unit and insertion of prosthesis”.

Treatment venue

In-hospital

Your care options

Public hospital patients:

You have no costs for the procedure as a public patient in hospital with Medicare. Fees and costs shown below do not apply. Learn more about Medicare.(opens in new tab)

Private hospital patients:

You may have out-of-pocket costs for the procedure in a private hospital. The typical fees and costs shown below are for people with Medicare and who have private health insurance for the procedure. See Explanations of fees and costs.


Typical costs

In 2023-24

For patients with private health insurance who had a Breast reconstruction with tissue expansion in a private setting across all of Australia, 76% had an out-of-pocket cost. Of those:

Included

  • Specialist fees
  • Assistant surgeon fees*
  • Anaesthetist fees*

*These fees may apply differently if relevant to your situation. See Explanation of fees and costs for more.


Excluded

  • Hospital fees – typically $7,000 for this procedure

Hospital fees may include accommodation, theatre, or medical devices. Your private health insurer generally covers all or most of this cost, depending on your level of insurance. You may have to pay an excess or co-payment.