Quick answer
Not for cosmetic reasons. Health insurance doesn’t pay for breast augmentation to change size or shape. But federal law requires group health plans that cover mastectomies to cover breast reconstruction, including implants, surgery on the other breast for symmetry, prostheses and treatment of complications. Removing implants that cause medical problems may also be covered.
Key takeaways
- Cosmetic breast augmentation isn’t covered.
- Reconstruction after a mastectomy is covered under the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act.
- That includes surgery on the other breast so they match, and prostheses.
- Treatment of complications, such as lymphedema, is covered.
- Removing a ruptured or problem implant may be covered if it’s medically necessary.
On this page
When insurance covers breast implants
| Reason | Usually covered? |
|---|---|
| Cosmetic augmentation | No |
| Changes after pregnancy or weight loss | No, if cosmetic |
| Reconstruction after a mastectomy | Yes, under federal law |
| Reconstruction after an injury | Often, when medically necessary |
| Correcting a congenital deformity | Sometimes, with prior approval |
| Removing implants due to rupture, infection or illness | Often, when medically necessary |
Reconstruction after a mastectomy
The Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act requires group health plans that cover mastectomies to cover all stages of reconstruction of the affected breast, surgery on the other breast to match, prostheses, and treatment of complications including lymphedema. Deductibles and coinsurance can apply, but no more than for other benefits. See what type of health insurance covers surgery.
Checking your coverage
- Ask your insurer whether prior approval is needed.
- Check that the surgeon and hospital are in network.
- Get a written estimate of your share of the cost.
For breast reduction, which is sometimes covered for medical reasons, see will health insurance pay for a breast reduction.
Paying for cosmetic surgery
If your surgery is cosmetic, you’ll pay the full cost. Many surgeons offer payment plans. Be careful with medical credit cards that charge high deferred interest if you don’t pay the balance in time. See what if you can afford your medical bills out of pocket.
If you’re choosing a plan
Cosmetic procedures aren’t covered by any ACA plan, but coverage for reconstruction and complications can differ in networks and costs. Compare the best health insurance companies in your area, and switch at open enrollment if needed; see how to switch health insurance companies. Going uninsured leaves you paying for any complications yourself; see the worst that can happen if you get sick without health insurance.
Compare plans in your area: see quotes by ZIP code.
Frequently asked questions
Does insurance cover breast implants after a mastectomy?
Yes. Plans that cover mastectomies must cover reconstruction, including implants.
Will insurance pay to remove breast implants?
Often, if removal is medically necessary because of rupture, infection or illness. Removal for cosmetic reasons usually isn’t covered.
Can I use my HSA for breast augmentation?
Not for cosmetic surgery. HSA money can pay for reconstruction after a mastectomy.
Sources
This article is general information, not medical advice. Last reviewed September 2026.