Is breast reconstruction covered by Medicare Australia?
Is breast reconstruction covered by Medicare Australia?
How much does a reconstruction cost? A breast reconstruction can be of no cost to you if you use public facilities as it is covered by Medicare. With the public sector, you may be put on an extensive waiting list and you won’t be able to choose your Specialist Plastic Surgeon.
What does a mastectomy incision look like?
Most mastectomy incisions are in the shape of an oval around the nipple, running across the width of the breast. If you are having a skin-sparing mastectomy, the incision will be smaller, including only the nipple, areola, and the original biopsy scar.
Is breast reconstruction after mastectomy painful?
Even breast biopsy, lumpectomy, breast augmentation and breast reconstruction can result in chronic breast and chest pain. Our experience indicates that post-mastectomy pain can be similar in severity to that experienced by limb amputation patients, with average patient-reported pain scores of 8 out of 10.
How much does a breast reconstruction cost in Australia?
What is the cost of implant breast reconstruction in Sydney? o Approximately $7000-8000 for stage 1 – this includes the cost of a plastic surgeon, surgical assistant, an anaesthetist, prosthesis, and all follow-up. In case of any complications, no further fees apply.
How long after mastectomy can you have reconstruction?
Some surgeons advise patients to wait until after radiation and chemotherapy are finished before having reconstruction. This means reconstruction might be done 6 to 12 months after mastectomy or lumpectomy. Reconstruction also can be done years later if desired.
How big is a mastectomy scar?
This surgery is considered the most disfiguring of the mastectomy procedures, leaving very little tissue other than skin over the rib bones. The scar left after this surgery is 6 to 8 inches long, with enough skin left to close the incision with sutures or staples.
When can you raise your arms after mastectomy?
You should not lift your arm above shoulder level until cleared by your plastic surgeon. You may return to low-impact exercises four weeks after surgery.
Why is my stomach swollen after mastectomy?
During surgery for cancer, nearby lymph nodes are often removed. This disrupts the flow of lymph, which can lead to swelling. This is lymphedema. Lymphedema can affect one or both arm, the head and neck, the belly, the genitals, or the legs.
