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| Breast cyst aspiration is a simple procedure used to help a doctor confirm that a breast lump is a cyst, which is a fluid-filled sac. Breast cysts are common in women and usually benign. |
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| Typical costs: |
- For patients not covered by health insurance, the typical cost of a breast cyst aspiration ranges from about $150 for a single breast cyst aspirated without ultrasound guidance to $500 or more for multiple cysts with ultrasound guidance. For example, at the Breast Center of Northwest Arkansas, breast aspiration of a single cyst costs $162 with $40 each for each additional cyst and $215 for ultrasound guidance.
- Breast cyst aspiration should almost always be covered by health insurance.
- For patients covered by health insurance, typical out-of-pocket costs would include a copay or coinsurance of $15 to $50.
What should be included: |
- A doctor numbs the area with local anesthesia, then uses a needle attached to a syringe to remove fluid from the breast cyst. In some cases, depending on the size and location of the lump, the doctor might use ultrasound to guide the needle during the aspiration. If the cyst disappears after being drained, and contains non-bloody, watery fluid, the doctor usually can confirm that the lump was a cyst and further testing typically is not required.
- FamilyDoctor.org has an overview of breast cyst aspiration.
Additional costs: |
- A follow-up visit usually is required so the doctor can make sure the cyst has not filled with fluid again.
- The drained fluid sometimes is sent for laboratory testing, especially if it has blood in it.
- If the fluid drawn is not consistent with a cyst, or if the doctor is unable to drain fluid from the lump, a biopsy probably would be required.
Discounts: |
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Shopping for a breast cyst aspiration: |
- A general practitioner or gynecologist would perform a breast cyst aspiration after checking a lump and determining that it appears to be a cyst. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists offers a doctor finder by state.
- A breast cyst aspiration can cause pain, bruising or infection at the site.
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Material on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult your physician or pharmacist regarding medications or medical procedures.
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Article updated August 2009 |
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