What are my options for implant removal?

Question

I am female, 71 years of age had silcone implants put in under the chest muscle in 1978. Left is ruptured, right is encapsulated . I have tried to make an appointment with a plastic surgeon .m Have been told they need to come out. Instead of an appointment, I receive a phone call 3 different times telling me Insurance won't pay, since I can't afford to have them removed on my own -- an appointment with a plastic surgeon never gets made. don't know what else to do.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear kay anne,
in most cases, removal of breast implants is not covered by insurance. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Medicare usually covers removal of ruptured gel implants. I would suggest going to a university hospital where plastic surgery fellows are trained and being seen there. Most of those young surgeons have completed 5 years of general surgery training and are well supervised.  Because it is a university setting, fees charged are often much more affordable, and often waived, depending upon the situation. They may accept what Medicare pays as payment.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I encourage you to make an appointment with a board certified plastic surgeon of your choice.  Many have companies that they work with that can help finance medical procedures.  You also can contact your insurance company to appeal your case to try to get coverage.

What are my options for implant removal?

Answers (3)

More Breast Implant Removal Questions

Can 30 min of IV sedation cause telogen effluvium?

Capsular contracture explant - Does it cost more to remove implants with capsules?

Breast pain 10 months post-op - advice? (photos)

Wound infection 6 weeks post-op explant and lift. I don't trust my surgeon. What should I do?

Explant w/ Capsule Removal - Can I Get Fat Transfer at the Same Time? (photo)

Should I consider Mastopexy after explant? (photos)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS