What compensation is available from the manufacturer of 23 y.o. ruptured McGhan silicone implants (from 1991)?

The manufacture does cover the implants themselves for as long as they are in you, so if one or both have ruptured they should cover the cost of the implant(s), however they do not cover any surgical fees after 10 years.  I would contact Allergan regarding your specific implants, you will need to have your serial numbers, and they can tell you exactly what warranty coverage you have on your specific implants, I know it has changed over the years.  Currently, they cover the implants themselves for life and they cover up to a certain amount of surgical fees for up to 10 years, after that they do not cover any surgical fees.If you would like more information regarding breast augmentation, you can download a free copy of my Breast Augmentation Planner at ABetterBreast.com.

You fortunately had McGhan implants, later owned by Inamed, and most recently by Allergan. I believe that if you go to a surgeon who uses Allergan (formerly McGhan) implants, they will likely honor their "lifetime replacement" policy on their implants. Some or most of the surgical costs are covered for the first ten years after implants are placed, but that is what is "not covered" 23 years later.The same would apply to an artificial hip, heart valve, or pacemaker battery. They all wear out eventually, as do we. It is propitious that you have lasted longer than your implants. Certainly the reverse would be unfortunate!If you know any insurer or product that "covers" the unknown before it is known, please inform us so we may too take advantage of this! Truly, I'm not being snarky here, just voicing the reality that most of us have to endure with any service or product we purchase. Sorry you have these problems now, but they can be dealt with. Best wishes! Dr. Tholen

All of the points that you made in your question are appropriate and true and concern surgeons as much as their patients. . On the other hand the manufacturers would argue if you purchased an automobile would you expect it to last forever? Even your own body parts wear out causing arthritis requiring joint replacement.  Longer and longer warranties are being made and increased cohesivity causing less likelihood of leakage. 

As a coinvestigator for my entire plastic surgical career, there has never been "routine maintenance" for implant removal.   All is not known with breast implants; however, what is known is that there are extensive studies for these medical devices.  I have recommended them to relatives as well as patients and understand the risks (as there are with any device-medical and nonmedical).  Warranties have improved greatly and the best in my opinion, is that from Sientra.  It is disappointing anytime there is a deflation, but these are usually uncomplicated and can be treated with removal or exchange.  Removal of both devices is also offered and discussed.  It ultimately falls on the individual and a vocalized understanding of the risks, and benefits.  Breast augmentation with implants is the most satisfying procedure in our practice.  With regards as to coverage prior to information known, is part of the reason why the FDA placed a moratorium on first time breast augmentation patients from 1992-2006.

The Allergan rep happened to be in my office as I am writing this. He called the Allergan home office for this answer. McGhan was bought by Inamed and is now owned by Allergan (Allergan now being bought by Actavis). The Dow Corning  global settlement in 1997 prohibits all implant manufacturers from giving any financial assistance or implants for implants placed prior to October 1, 1997. However, if you see a plastic surgeon who performs a fair number of implants they may be able to get you a discount.