In summary, insurance coverage for breast implants is not a straightforward answer and depends on the reason for the procedure. Cosmetic breast implants are typically not covered, but breast reconstruction, medically necessary procedures, and congenital deformities may be covered. It’s important to discuss with your insurance provider and plastic surgeon to understand your coverage options and criteria for approval.
Hi there, it’s Kylie Mahar, your go-to financial expert at cycuro.com. Today, I’m here to answer a question that many women have asked me – “Will insurance cover breast implants?”
As a financial expert, I have seen many women struggle with the cost of breast implants. I understand that this is a personal decision that can have a significant impact on a woman’s self-esteem and confidence. However, it’s also important to consider the financial implications of this decision.
To provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information, I have conducted extensive research on this topic. I have consulted with three experts in the field of plastic surgery and insurance coverage.
Firstly, I spoke with Dr. Emily Chung, a plastic surgeon with over 10 years of experience in breast augmentation surgery. Secondly, I consulted with Sarah Johnson, an insurance expert with extensive knowledge of the insurance policies that cover breast implant surgery. Finally, I reached out to Dr. Maxine Patel, a medical advisor who specializes in women’s health and the impact of cosmetic procedures on their overall well-being.
These experts have provided me with valuable insights that will help you understand whether your insurance will cover breast implants. Stay tuned for my blog post, where I will share their expert opinions and advice on this topic.
As always, my goal is to help you make informed financial decisions that will benefit you in the long run. So, let’s dive into the world of insurance coverage for breast implants together!
Confused about insurance coverage for breast implants? You have come to the right place! In this blog, we’ll discuss the ins and outs of breast implants and insurance coverage so you can make an informed decision. Let’s get started!
Introduction
Breast implants, also called augmentation mammoplasties, have become increasingly popular procedures in recent years. The surgery involves placing implants behind the chest muscles to increase the size and shape of a woman’s bustline. While some women may choose to get breast implants for purely aesthetic reasons, implants may also be used in reconstructive surgeries after a mastectomy or if one breast is naturally much smaller than the other.
When considering breast implant surgery, it is important to understand exactly what type of procedure you are having, who your surgeon will be and what potential risks and financial obligations may come into play. As with any elective surgical procedure, insurance policies vary greatly – so it is important to research your insurance coverage before undergoing this type of procedure:
- Type of procedure
- Surgeon
- Potential risks
- Financial obligations
- Insurance coverage
What is Breast Implant Surgery?
Breast Implant Surgery is a cosmetic procedure in which implants, either filled with saline or silicone gel, are inserted into a woman’s breasts to enhance the size, shape and overall appearance. The procedure is usually done on an out-patient basis under local anesthesia. The breast implant operation usually takes one to two hours and recovery time may vary from several days to several weeks depending on the particular procedure.
The aim of Breast Implant surgery is to give women balance and symmetry in their physical appearance, as well as greater self-confidence and a more positive self-image.
There are several different types of breast implants available; all designed to produce different aesthetic effects and results. Types of implants include:
- Round, smooth, textured shell implants behind the muscle or in front.
- Mentor Contour Profile Gel filled textured shell implants.
- Allergan Natrelle High Strength Cohesive conformable silicone gel filled implants.
- Polyurethane covered/hydrogel silicone gel filled Implants.
During consultation surgeons discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each type with their patient prior to any surgery being conducted.
Types of Breast Implants
There are two main types of breast implants approved for use in the United States: saline implants and silicone implants. Each type of implant has its own benefits and disadvantages, so it is important to understand the differences before making a decision about which one to choose.
Saline implants contain a saltwater solution and are inserted into the body as empty shells. The shells are then filled with sterile saline solution after placement within the body. This process provides better control over the size and shape of your breasts. Saline implants have a lower rate of rupture than their silicone counterparts and may be more appropriate for those who need only minor corrections or augmentations, as they do not provide the natural feel of silicone. Disadvantages include increased chances for rippling or wrinkling (especially in thinner individuals).
Silicone Implants consist of an outer shell filled with silicone gel, which provides a more natural look and feel compared to saline implants. These implants hold their shape much better over time; however, they can be more expensive due to their higher initial cost and higher rate of implant failure over time compared to saline implants. Silicone-filled breast implants are not recommended for women under 22 years old, as their maturing bodies may be too delicate to handle them safely. However, since these offer greater support than other types, they may be an attractive option for women looking for larger augmentation results without going through multiple surgeries or needing additional surgical lifts in the future.
Risks Associated with Breast Implants
Breast implants involve the insertion of foreign objects into the body and therefore there are associated risks when electing to have the procedure done. Patients should understand the potential risks before they undergo implant surgery.
Possible complications include:
- Allergic reactions such as fever, rash, itching, dry throat and nausea.
- A delayed reaction to the implant can occur weeks or years after it has been inserted and may cause severe pelvic pain or uncomfortable swellings.
- It is also possible that in some cases breast implants can cause a form of cancer known as anaplastic large cell lymphoma (a rare form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma).
Other issues that can occur are related to aesthetics such as leakage, rippling, rotation or malpositioning resulting in an uneven or distorted appearance of the breasts. When this occurs, corrective surgery may be recommended by your surgeon. Breasts may also become overly sensitive after implantation due to capsular contracture–the tightness of scar tissue–causing discomfort and even pain at times. Lastly, infection is a risk associated with any surgery so proper care must be taken to prevent this from happening.
It is important that patients thoroughly research all potential risks prior to making a decision about breast augmentation surgery. Taking responsibility for your own health by researching any medical procedures you think about undergoing should always be a priority for patient safety and peace of mind.
Insurance Coverage for Breast Implants
When considering breast augmentation, many women wonder if insurance coverage will be available for the procedure. Generally speaking, insurance providers do not cover cosmetic surgery and associated costs, including breast implants, as such procedures are considered elective. However, in some cases certain components may be considered medically necessary and covered by insurance.
Typically, insurance might cover some or all of the costs if a woman has had a mastectomy due to cancer or her breasts are disproportionately large for her body size. If the mammary glands’ functionality is unaffected due to these issues, insurance companies may consider covering the lab work and implant selection as medically necessary. However, extra costs such as pre-surgery visits and post-operative care will typically not be included in any coverage package.
If you would like to determine whether your particular procedure would be covered under your current plan, please contact your health insurance provider and ask a representative about applicable coverage options prior to pursuing breast implant surgery.
What to Consider Before Getting Breast Implants
Before deciding to get breast implants, you should consider a few things. First, you need to be aware of the potential risks and benefits associated with this type of cosmetic surgery. Speak with your physician before committing to any medical procedure and make sure that you are aware of all the potential complications. Additionally, you should do some research into the type of implant that would be most suitable for your body.
Next, decide if insurance will cover your implants or if you will need to pay for them out-of-pocket. Insurance companies vary in terms of what type of procedures they will cover and how much coverage they offer; therefore, it’s important that you call your provider and explain your situation in order to determine whether or not they will cover the cost of your implant surgery.
Finally, it’s essential to take into account the cost associated with implants as well as any possible follow-up treatments that may be necessary. This could involve additional scar revisions and regular check-ups; it’s best to discuss these costs with both your doctor and insurance company before making a decision about whether or not breast implants are right for you:
- Awareness of potential risks and benefits
- Research into suitable implants
- Call insurance provider to determine coverage
- Consider cost associated with implants and follow-up treatments
Cost of Breast Implants
Breast implants are a popular cosmetic surgery procedure for many women around the world. The cost of breast implants will depend on multiple factors, including the type of implant, the size and shape of your breasts, and surgeon fees. Generally speaking, the cost of breast implants ranges from $3,000 to $14,000 depending on all these factors.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the average cost of breast augmentation with silicone or saline implants was over $3,700 in 2019. However, these fees do not include other costs associated with surgical procedures such as anesthesia fees, facility fees or medications.
If you’d like to explore assistance in covering these costs some medical insurances may offer coverage for your procedure under certain circumstances such as severe deformities due to trauma or birth defects. In addition some employers offer reimbursement plans through flexible spending accounts that are designed to help offset qualified medical expenses like surgery costs. Ultimately it is important to contact your insurer prior to scheduling any procedure so that you understand what costs are covered by your insurance and what steps you need to take in order for them to be covered.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether or not insurance companies will cover breast implants is dependent upon countless factors. Insurance companies often look to the reasoning behind the surgery, as well as any risk factors that need to be taken into consideration. Due to the limited coverage that is afforded on many policies, some individuals find themselves having to pay out of pocket for their breast implant surgery and related costs.
If you’re considering breast implants, contact your insurance provider to learn more about potential coverage and associated costs prior to undergoing the procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Will insurance cover breast implants?
A1: Unfortunately, insurance does not typically cover the cost of breast implants, as it is considered an elective cosmetic procedure.
Q2: Are there financing options available for breast implants?
A2: Yes, many surgeons and plastic surgery clinics offer financing options to help patients cover the cost of their procedure.
Q3: What is the average cost of breast implants?
A3: The cost of breast implants varies depending on the type of implant chosen, the complexity of the procedure, and the surgeon’s experience. Generally, the average cost of breast implants ranges from $3,000 to $8,000.