Re-use of Implant Caused Rupture. What Can I Do?

Fda and Breast Implant Manufacturer state "breast implants are for single use only" and never should implanted again if it was explanted. Breast implants should never be resterlized. Manufacturers state that your warrantly will be void if your surgeon re-uses the implant. If Plastic Surgeons have this knowledge, why isn't this on the consent forms that patients have to sign so we are informed patient. I have a ruptured implant that the Manufacturer will not cover because of the reuse.

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rupture reuse

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2 Doctor Answers | Asked by Allie in NJ in West Orange, NJ

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Breast implant "reuse"?

Thank you for the question I would agree with Dr. Tholen's answer that most surgeons would have replaced your implant unless otherwise indicated. This replacement would not be considered "reusing", is common practice among plastic surgeons, and should not be an issue with deflation replacement by the breast implant manufacturers. I hope this helps.

Re-use of implant.

I'm not sure I understand what your issue is here. If you wanted your surgeon to use a new implant at your re-operation, then you would have had to pay for it. You apparently avoided the cost of a new implant at your re-operation, but "the manufacturer will not cover because of the reuse" so now you have to pay for a new implant. Same cost either way. Re-use may have had nothing to do with "rupture" as this (extremely rare) occurrence would require re-operation... more