What is the cost for explantation and does insurance cover the costs? Also, what is the recovery period?

Because your reason for having the breast implant surgery was cosmetic, it is highly unlikely that your medical insurance will cover the removal.  If you only require implant removal, this should be relatively painless.  No one can truly predict how your breasts will look after breast implant removal as each soft tissue envelope will respond differently, but you may do well with just removal. If there is any doubt, explant using the original incision, and wait 6 months or so to evaluate whether you are pleased with the results.
Most plastic surgeons will recommend 4 to 6 weeks before resuming strenuous activity with a lifting limit of 10 to 15 pounds.  The incisions should be healed and durable before subjecting them to any real stress.
Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Los Angeles, CA

hello laverpt35 Patients will feel sore and tired during the first 48 to 72 hours following surgery. During these first few days, the patient should engage in light activities, refraining from lifting or raising the arms above the head.

Swelling and bruising will subside during the first week after surgery and will be controlled by pain medication. The initial dressings will be removed a few weeks after surgery during a post operative visit. Patients typically may return to a work a few days after surgery (only a light workload during the first two weeks). Cost usually depends on the surgeon, you should go for an in-patient consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon. ##recovery cost

Insurance questions are best addressed with your insurance company. Generally speaking, Cosmetic/elective Procedures are not covered by insurance, unless you had medical reasons when implants were placed. Costs can not be determined without a physical exam, and knowing al the details of your case. Be sure to set up an in person exam with your Surgeon to go over all of your options and discuss all your questions 

You can elect to have your implants removed at any time. You do not need to undergo a lift if you do not want one. Patients often only need a few days off work after this procedure. It is important to follow your surgeon's advice with regard to compression and activity limitations for optimal healing. It is generally not covered by insurance.

Thank you for your question. The cost for this operation will vary geographically and upon the surgeon and any facility/anesthesia fees. Insurance will likely not cover the cost. The recovery period varies from patient to patient, but generally the first 7-10 days are reserved for overall rest and recovery. After that slow, but steady return to routine activities is in order. Be sure to see a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who you can follow-up with and spend time with you to answer any questions and concerns you may have.

Sincerely,

Dr. Benjamin J. Cousins MD Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Miami/Miami Beach

Thank you for your question. While pricing will vary depending on you geographic location and your particular board-certified plastic surgeon, an explant may range between $6000-$8000. It is not likely that insurance would cover this expense, as the procedure is cosmetic in nature. Be sure to bring up any questions or concerns that you may have during your consultation. Best of luck!

Thank you for your question.
It is unlikely that insurance will cover explantation from a cosmetic procedure, but it is best to check with your particular insurance to avoid any confusion. Simple explantation without any history of capsular contracture should have a relatively quick recovery (1-2 weeks). If you happen to have saline implants, they can be deflated in office to help you visualize the post explantation look. Be sure to talk with your board certified plastic surgeon regarding all your options. 

The fee will vary from surgeon to surgeon, so you are best to see the doctor you choose to go with and go from there.

In general, insurance does not cover breast implant removal for patients who got them for cosmetic reasons.  Check with your insurance company for verification.  Recover will depend on the extent of the surgery.  The majority of patients take at least a week off work.  Discuss this with your surgeon.