Does Medicare cover explanation of ruptured silicone implants? (Photos)

If the implants were placed for cosmetic and not reconstructive purposes almost 20 years ago, Medicare may not cover their removal.  However, if you and your surgeon can provide documentation that the ruptured implants are contributing to your other health issues, Medicare may cover the removal.  Best to schedule an in-office consultation with your plastic surgeon.Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs and I am sorry to hear of your implant difficulties.  I would advocate seeing your plastic surgeon for an in-person examination as each insurance plan under medicare has different benefits and coverage terms while also differentiating between implants placed for cosmetic and reconstructive purposes.  If your implants were placed for aesthetic reasons explantation is unlikely to be covered.  Hope this helps. 

Medicare may cover the removal of ruptured gel implants. I would suggest meeting with a board certified plastic surgeon and discussing your options.

Please see a Plastic Surgeon who performs breast reconstruction.  They typically continue to take insurance in their practice.  Discuss your insurance issue with the practice.

If your implants were placed for medical reasons such as cancer reconstruction, insurance may pay for removal since they are ruptured.  Meet with a board certified plastic surgeon for an in person evaluation.