Question of the Month: Is a breast reduction an eligible expense?

Dear Gina: I would like to have breast reduction surgery. Is it an eligible expense through a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA)?


If it is medically necessary and approved by insurance then it will be an eligible expense through the FSA or HSA. If it is not deemed medically necessary and is not “prescribed” by your physician or approved by insurance, then it will likely fall into the category of a cosmetic procedure.  Most cosmetic procedures do not qualify. This includes cosmetic surgery or other procedures that are directed at improving the patient’s appearance and don’t meaningfully promote the proper function of the body or prevent or treat illness or disease. There is an exception, however, for procedures necessary to ameliorate a deformity arising from congenital abnormality, personal injury from accident or trauma, or disfiguring disease— these may qualify. Be sure to check with your doctor and insurance company before undergoing the procedure.

— Gina

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