Calcified polyurethane implants: I need to remove my very hard almost 30 year old calcified breast implants.

Dear Trianna,Sorry about what is going on but it can be fixed.  I literally performed this operation 2 weeks ago.  It is fairly uncommon but still happens and can be remedied.  You most likely have calcified capsules that need be removed and can have implants placed again or nothing at all.  It seems like you are in good hands as long as you are with a board certified plastic surgeon.  Best of luck!

It really depends on the plastic surgeon you are being referred to and how you feel about him/her.  Most plastic surgeons can do an enbloc capsulectomy and removal of the ruptured implants. I would go see the plastic surgeon that your insurance is referring you to and see how you feel after your consultation.  If you are feel comfortable and feel that the surgeon can provide you with a nice outcome then I would go with him/her.  If you don't feel comfortable after your consultation, then I would find another plastic surgeon to see.  You may need to see a couple or a few until you find the surgeon that is right for you. Hope that helps.

With the old polyurethanes, the whole capsule should come out. The product is in the capsule itself and you will have recurrent contracture with your new implants if the PS does not remove the capsule as well. That being said, make sure your PS is very experienced with capsulectomy (doesn't have to be specifically for this type of implant). Often they take some breast tissue with the implant, leaving divots and signs of surgery. The good ones though will be able to remove just the capsule without extra tissue. If you have good insurance, many plastic surgeons will take your insurance even if they are out of network. I know in our center we find that the good group plans often fully cover the OR, surgeon's, and anesthesia fees. The insurance won't cover replacement implants though usually!

I recommend visiting with the surgeon that your insurance has approved.  Make sure that you're seeing a board certified plastic surgeon and discuss the procedure.  Ask about experience with implant removal and questions about the procedure.  Evaluate how you feel afterward and then make a decision.

The long-term fate of many gel implants, including polyurethane covered ones, is hard calcified capsular contracture.  This is much less common with saline implants.  The treatment is complete capsulectomy and removal of implant shell and silicone fill material.  Many insurance companies will only cover treatment if the original implant surgery was done for breast reconstruction rather than a cosmetic procedure.  It is nice that your insurance will help you with these expenses. You and your plastic surgeon then need to consider what else you will have done.  Will you simply replace the implant?  Will you now choose a saline filled implant, or go back to silicone gel?  Will the surgeon chose a new pocket (perhaps convert subglandular to subpectoral)?  Will you need a mastopexy (breast lift)?  How will you plan for the future?  After you discuss these and other questions with your recommended plastic surgeon, you should have a better idea whether to proceed or speak with additional out-of-network plastic surgeons.  Take you time with your decision.  Other consultations may help you decide.  

You might do better going to an experienced surgeon who has removed several old calcified implants. I would suggest at least seeing another surgeon for another opinion.

Have taken out many polyurethane implants. Must taken out entire capsule to remove all of the residual material. i would recommend you consider the "ideal" implant that has no silicone,etc. but feel natural.