Need Reconstructive Surgery After a Mastectomy? You’re Covered

BCBSIL Connect Team

Need Reconstructive Surgery After a Mastectomy? You’re Covered

BCBSIL Connect Team
Need Reconstructive Surgery After a Mastectomy? You’re Covered
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Home » Blogs » Need Reconstructive Surgery After a Mastectomy? You’re Covered

This article is intended for HMO members enrolled in an employer health insurance plan.

It’s normal to be anxious if you find out you need to have a mastectomy. A mastectomy is the removal of one or both breasts. This procedure is most often performed to treat breast cancer. 

If you are facing this surgery, take some comfort in knowing that federal and state laws require health insurance companies to cover reconstructive surgery afterward.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois provides coverage for:

  • Recreating the breast that was removed
  • Breast implants
  • Surgery on the other breast for an even appearance
  • Treatment of possible side effects of mastectomy, including lymphedema (fluid buildup that leads to swelling)

These procedures must be provided by a licensed physician and meet other requirements.

Your plan may also cover annual mammograms. Want to find out more? Just call us at the customer service number on your member ID card. 

Originally published 9/4/2020; Revised 2022, 2023, 2024

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois, a Division of Health Care Service Corporation,
a Mutual Legal Reserve Company, an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association

© Copyright 2025 Health Care Service Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

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