Affordable Options for Saline Implant Removal?

Question

I had saline implants inserted 9 years ago, and one them deflated 3 days ago. I have no interest in ever having it replaced, and would just like both implants permanently removed. However, I don't have a lot of money, and I am not currently insured (Rheumatoid Arthritis has made it impossible for me to get affordable coverage, so I go without). What are the risks of leaving a deflated implant in place? Are there any affordable options for having both implants permanently removed?

Jeffrey E. Schreiber, MD, FACS · Answer

As long as you're not having problems, you'll probably be okay.  Check out your local teaching hospital for implant removal as they frequently offer very low rates.

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

Removal of a ruptured saline implant is a fairly uncomplicated procedure. The risks of leaving a ruptured device in place are insignificant (outside of the obvious cosmetic concerns). Costs will vary from region to region and physician to physician. However, this is usually a relatively inexpensive undertaking. RealSelf.com is a useful resource for determining regional price averages.If price is a concern and insurance not an option, you might consider visiting a plastic surgery clinic at a teaching hospital. Resident physician care is very high quality and overseen by senior medical staff. This often comes at a much lower cost than private practice settings.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Good day! Breast implant removal average costs is around $4,500 but the most important part of your surgery is your doctor's experience. The cost varies depending on your area, facility, and years of experience of your surgeon. Keeping a deflated implant serious illness but aside from asymmetry, it may cause discomfort in the long run. It is best to have an in-person examination so that costs will be customized according to your needs. You may also ask the manufacturer of your implant if explantation is covered in their warranty or insurance that you paid when you got them. Best of luck! #RealSelf100

Richard J. Bruneteau, MD · Answer

When patient’s have deflated
saline implants, the results can be very dramatic.These implants flatten rapidly and patient’s
suddenly find themselves with significant breast asymmetry.This can create anxiety and because of this,
patient’s are eager to have this problem corrected as soon as possible.For this reason, we don’t see a lot of women
with deflated implants for prolonged periods of time.Surgeons are also eager to correct the problem as soon as
possible.They realize that with time,
the implant pocket starts to shrink.This may be accompanied by creases and folds in the deflated implant
which can cause erosions through the skin.With the passage of time, revisional surgery becomes more
difficult with a greater potential for complications.When implants are replaced early, all that’s
necessary is a simple exchange of the old deflated implant for a new one.When the empty implant is left in place for
prolonged periods of time, the implant pocket may need to be recreated because
of shrinkage. Although we recommend removal and replacement of deflated
implants at the earliest possible date, we realize this isn’t always
possible.In theory, empty saline
implants can be left in place indefinitely.Although this doesn’t help your financial question, it does buy you some
time to deal with the issue.If this
situation arises, it’s important to consult a board certified plastic surgeon
to discuss the pros and cons of leaving a deflated saline implant in place.

William Bruno, MD · Answer

If you have a deflated saline breast implant on one side, you could undergo an in-office deflation of the other side to give better symmetry.  Ultimately you will require removal of both implants, which could be done under local anesthesia with some mild IV sedation. The total cost could vary between 2500-4000 depending on the anesthesia fees, operating/facility fees, etc.

	There are no health risks of leaving a deflated saline implant in place.

	Best wishes,

	Dr.Bruno

Ricardo A. Meade, MD · Answer

Sorry to hear about your financial difficulties. The least expensive way to deal with this is to have your board certified plastic surgeon deflate the opposite side in the office under sterile technique to not be so uneven and leave them in until you can afford to have them removed.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

You can elect to have the other implant deflated and have the shells removed at your convenience, although depending on the amount of breast tissue you have you may be able to see and feel the implant.  Some surgeons will remove the implants under local anesthesia.  This may be an option for you if you are a candidate in order to reduce the cost.

Kris M. Reddy, MD, FACS · Answer

The costs of surgery vary greatly across the country. We charge starting about $2300 + MD Anesthesia Related Costs for breast implant removal.One main advantage that we have is that we own our AAAASF nationally accredited surgery center. This allows us to maintain staff and MD Anesthesiologist relationships, and manage the costs which allows us to provide a safe and comfortable environment. Consult with 3 experienced and expert board certified plastic surgeons to understand your options.

Peter E. Johnson, MD · Answer

Saline implants are very easily removed often under a local alone and can be made very affordable. Most saline implants will carry a warranty by the manufacturer for ten years which covers the cost of removal and replacement for a premature leak, so pull out your records and have you surgeon pursue a claim.

	Best of luck,

	peterejohnsonmd

Steven Turkeltaub, MD · Answer

The good news for you is that potentially the costs of removal will be the lowest compared to other scenarios. Under local anesthesia in a board certified plastic surgeon's office, these can usually be removed fairly easily. The thinner and less existing breast tissue that you have, the simpler and more comfortable it will be.

	The other option which I could not strongly recommend for the long term would to just have the other side deflated and leave the "envelopes" in. This could be considered as a short term solution (and would help with the aesthetic issues) until you can afford to have both implants removed.

Affordable Options for Saline Implant Removal?

Answers (17)

More Breast Implant Removal Questions

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (17)

More Breast Implant Removal Questions

Breast Implant Removal and Lift - Should I Lose Weight First?

Is It Safe to Have Implants Removed While Awake?

How to Treat Keloid or Hypertrophic Scarring in Incision Scars

After Explantation - How Long Should I Wait to Get a Lift or New Implants?

Scar Tissue After Breast Implant Explantation

Can Adderall Lead to Anesthesia Awareness?

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS