Is the Cost of Alloderm Passed on to the Patient?

For reconstructive cases, insurance will take care of fees of supplies associated with surgery (there is normally a "patients responsibility' portion - differs with each insurance). For cosmetic procedures that are not covered by insurance, the cost of using allograft is passed onto the patient.

The use of alloderm acellular matrix has in my opinion revolutionized breast reconstruction after mastectomy, by providing better support and coverage of the implant with less invasive surgery and more control over the shape of the breast. Breast reconstruction is a federally mandated insurance benefit and this would cover the implants and materials used.

It is a different story with revisions of breast augmentation. The material most often used here is Strattice, but insurance normally doesn't cover issues related to cosmetic surgery. However, for certain problems the use of a graft such as Strattice can prevent a lot of more expensive problems and additional surgery down the road.

When Alloderm is used for reconstruction.It is billed for by the facility (hospital,surgery center) and the patient will not pay for it.If it is used for cosmetic surgery, the cost is covered by the patient. Hope that helps!