Out of pocket expenses for Mastectomy

I was lucky with a sympathetic surgeon who did both partial and mastectomy ops.  I can't remember all up what the consultations cost (I was in so much shock that I let my husband handle it) but I think the gap was under $100.  No gap for the anaesthetists and I think there was $150 excess for the hospital.  I should also say that we were about to cancel our health cover (not now, of course) as we had just applied for a health concession card.  It does help to talk to your doctor about your financial situation.