Surgery
Excision of breast lesion localized by imaging marker/wire, first lesion cost
Excision of breast lesion localized by imaging marker/wire, first lesion is an imaging test. Cash prices for imaging vary widely: hospitals often charge several times what an independent imaging center charges for the same scan.
Typical cash price
Nationwide
Total prices (all parts) at 1,142 hospitals. "Most listed prices" is the middle 80% of published prices.
Usually included: anesthesia + the scan itself (technical fee) + other required parts + pathology (lab review of tissue) + the radiologist's read (professional fee).
Good to know: Each additional lesion is 19126. A partial mastectomy/lumpectomy for known cancer is 19301, which is a different bundle. Surgery-center cash prices often exclude the radiology localization and pathology.
Cheapest near you
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Common questions
Is the radiologist's read included?
Not always. Hospitals usually list the scan (technical fee) and the radiologist's read (professional fee) separately. Many imaging centers quote one all-in price. Look for the "All-in", "Scan only" or "Read only" label on each price.
Do I need a referral?
Most imaging tests need an order from a doctor, nurse practitioner or physician assistant. Some imaging centers can arrange one; ask when you call.
Why are prices so different?
Each hospital and clinic sets its own cash price. Hospitals publish prices because federal rules require it; clinics and booking sites set prices to compete. The same service can cost several times more at one place than at another nearby.
Can I pay cash if I have insurance?
Yes. You can choose to self-pay. A cash price is often lower than what you would pay before meeting your deductible. Cash payments may not count toward your deductible, so check with your plan. Our cash vs. insurance tool can help you decide.
What is a Good Faith Estimate?
If you are uninsured or paying cash, providers must give you a Good Faith Estimate of the cost on request. If your final bill is $400 or more above the estimate, you can dispute it.