Being able to afford removing and replacing failed breast implant.

Question

My right breast implant deflated a year ago. I am now deformed with my left implant still intact. I now have a lump rolling around in my breast. I want to fix it but do not have the money to pay outright and poor credit. I don't know what to do but I have to fix this even if it means just removing everything and not replacing them. I'm new to Florida and need a doctor as well.

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

Ask a surgeon in your area if it is possible for the implant company to cover the implant replacement since most companies now have warranty programs.  If it is only one side, the cost can be manageble, only taking up 1 hour of OR time.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

If your implants are silicone, the removal may be covered by your insurance.  If they are saline and you have not had them in long, you may want to check with the manufacturer of the implant to see if there is any coverage.  If you elect to remove the implants, it is a relatively simple procedure with little downtime for recovery.  Best of luck.

Lisa Taylor, MD · Answer

If you're not ready for surgery to either remove your implants or replace your implants the easiest solution is to deflate your left implant so at least your breast will be symmetrical. This  can be done fairly easily in a doctors office under local anesthesia. You then could decide to have surgery at a later date when it's more convenient for you physically and/or financially.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative breast surgery.best of luck!Dr Schwartz

David J. Wages, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  The implants that are sold in the U.S. have a lifetime warranties against rupture.  They also offer a stipend towards replacement if less than ten years before rupture.  You may need to do some homework and find out about your implants- brand, date of placement and warranty.  I would seek out your surgeon who performed your original surgery to help track this down.

Being able to afford removing and replacing failed breast implant.

Answers (9)