After the later addition of a nipple, the result is a breast that looks, feels and moves like a natural breast. Whichever technique they use, plastic surgeons strive to match the reconstructed breast to the other breast. If necessary, they operate on the woman's other breast to produce a symmetrical appearance. Insurance usually covers this procedure. Since January 1999, any group health plan or insurer that provides medical and surgical benefits for mastectomy must cover the cost of reconstructive breast surgery after breast removal.
Coverage includes surgery on the other breast to achieve symmetry.
Through a public education campaign, the ASPS is promoting awareness of breast reconstruction each October, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.