Highlands Breast Implant Removal doctors
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Robert T. Buchanan, MD
Highlands Plastic Surgeon
209 Hospital Dr Suite 202, Highlands |
2 answers |
Recent Answers
I have had silicone implants for 30 years. I have hardening. I want them removed and replaced with a lift. A Dr told me to do this in 2 procedures/surguries because of risk of loss of blood supply to the nipples. What do you think??
Breast lifts and augmentations are done together all the time by experienced surgeons who understand the blood supply and methods available. Capsulectomy (removal of the scar around the implant causing the hardness) does not really disturb the blood supply any more than a primary augmentation. Therefore, breast implant replacement and lift can usually be done safely in one procedure.
I'd like to have my ruptured breast implants removed and have a breast lift done at the same time. I've heard it may be better to wait, but I'm worried I won't be able to afford it then (removal is covered by insurance). If I wait, I'd have to pay for anesthesia and room again. Also, what would generally be the price for anesthesia and room? And is it ever done together? Benefits and cons please. Thanks!
I and many other Plastic Surgeons with significant experience with breast surgery prefer to remove the entire old scar around the ruptured implant and the implant, replace the implant and do the mastopexy (lift) at the same time. I would, however, check with your insurance company. They will usually only pay for revision of an implant if it was used initially for breast reconstruction after mastectomy for cancer.
If they will pay for everything, including the mastopexy, together, they will usually pay when done separately. If this is not the case, and they will not pay for the mastopexy, you will be responsible for that part of the procedure. By doing the insurance covered procedure with the non-covered procedure, you generally save the expense of initial set-up, awakening and recovery. You, however, are responsible for the remaining surgeon, anesthesia and OR fees. You will need to discuss this at length with your Plastic Surgeon before the surgery to make specific financial arrangements.