Redoing breast implants, also known as breast implant revision, is a surgical procedure that many women may consider for various reasons. It could be due to dissatisfaction with the initial results, implant – related complications, or simply a change in personal preferences over time. One of the most pressing questions for those contemplating this procedure is, “How much does it cost to redo breast implants?” In this article, we’ll explore the factors that influence the cost of breast implant revision, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of what to expect.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Breast Implant Revision
1. Reason for Revision
Implant – Related Complications
Capsular Contracture: Capsular contracture is a common complication where the scar tissue around the implant tightens, causing the breast to feel hard and sometimes be painful. Treating capsular contracture often involves removing the old implant, the tightened capsule, and replacing the implant. The cost of this type of revision can be relatively high. The surgical procedure may be more complex as the surgeon needs to carefully dissect the scar tissue without damaging surrounding structures. Additionally, if the condition has progressed significantly, more extensive tissue manipulation may be required. On average, the cost for a revision due to capsular contracture can range from $6,000 to $12,000.
Implant Rupture: Whether it’s a saline or silicone implant, rupture can occur. In the case of a saline implant, the breast will deflate as the saline leaks out. For silicone implants, the gel may leak, either silently or with visible signs. When an implant has ruptured, the surgeon needs to remove the damaged implant and clean up any leaked material. If the rupture has led to other issues like inflammation or tissue damage, additional steps may be involved. The cost for a revision due to implant rupture can vary from $5,000 to $10,000, depending on the extent of the damage and the type of implant.
Implant Malposition: If the implant has shifted from its original position, it can cause an unnatural appearance. This could be due to improper initial placement, changes in the breast tissue over time, or trauma. Correcting implant malposition requires the surgeon to reposition the implant, which may involve adjusting the breast pocket. The cost for this type of revision is typically in the range of $5,000 to $9,000, depending on how difficult it is to reposition the implant and if any additional procedures, like adding support structures, are needed.
Aesthetic Dissatisfaction
Desire for a Different Size or Shape: Some women may initially choose an implant size or shape that they later decide is not ideal for their body. If they want to change the size of the implant, for example, from a smaller to a larger one or vice versa, or if they want to switch from a round to an anatomical implant, the cost will depend on the complexity of the change. Increasing the size may require more extensive dissection to create a larger breast pocket, while changing the shape may involve more precise surgical techniques. The cost for a size or shape change revision can range from $5,000 to $10,000.
Asymmetry Correction: If the breasts appear uneven after the initial implant surgery, a revision may be needed to correct the asymmetry. This could involve adjusting the size, position, or type of implant on one or both sides. The cost for asymmetry correction can vary widely, from $4,000 to $10,000, depending on how significant the asymmetry is and what procedures are required to correct it.
2. Surgeon’s Expertise and Reputation
Board – Certified Plastic Surgeons
Board – certified plastic surgeons have completed extensive training in plastic and reconstructive surgery. They must pass rigorous exams to earn their board certification. These surgeons typically charge more for their services. Their expertise is crucial in breast implant revision, as they are more likely to be able to handle complex cases. For example, a board – certified plastic surgeon with years of experience in breast implant revisions will be better equipped to deal with issues like removing a severely capsulated implant without causing damage to the surrounding breast tissue. Their fees can range from $5,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the revision.
Fellowship – Trained Surgeons
Some plastic surgeons pursue additional fellowship training in a specific area, such as aesthetic breast surgery. Fellowship – trained surgeons have in – depth knowledge and specialized skills in breast implant revisions. They are more likely to have experience with the latest techniques and technologies for correcting implant – related problems. Due to their advanced training, they usually charge a premium. Their fees can be significantly higher than those of general plastic surgeons, sometimes adding an extra $2,000 to $5,000 to the overall cost of the revision.
3. Geographic Location
Urban vs. Rural Areas
The cost of breast implant revision can vary greatly depending on whether you have the procedure done in an urban or rural area. In large cities, the cost of living is generally higher, which impacts the cost of running a medical practice. Rent for office space, staff salaries, and the cost of medical equipment are all more expensive in urban areas. As a result, plastic surgeons in cities like New York, Los Angeles, or London may charge more for breast implant revision compared to those in smaller towns or rural areas. For instance, in a major city, the total cost of breast implant revision could be $10,000 – $20,000, while in a rural area, it might range from $6,000 – $12,000.
Regional Differences
Even within a country, there can be regional differences in the cost of breast implant revision. In some regions with a high concentration of plastic surgeons, competition may drive prices down. However, in areas with limited access to plastic surgery services, the cost may be higher due to the lack of competition. Additionally, in regions where the local economy is more prosperous, patients may be more willing to pay higher prices for cosmetic procedures, which can influence the pricing set by surgeons.
4. Facility Fees
Outpatient Surgery Centers
Many breast implant revision procedures are performed in outpatient surgery centers. These centers are equipped to handle surgical procedures without the need for an overnight stay. The cost of using an outpatient surgery center includes the use of the operating room, surgical equipment, and the services of the support staff, such as nurses and anesthesiologists. The fees for outpatient surgery centers can range from $2,000 to $5,000, depending on the quality and location of the center. A state – of – the – art outpatient surgery center in a prime location may charge more for its services compared to a smaller, more basic facility.
Hospitals
In some cases, breast implant revision may be performed in a hospital setting. This is usually the case when the patient has underlying health conditions that require closer monitoring during the surgery or when the revision procedure is more complex, such as when dealing with extensive implant – related complications. Hospital fees for breast implant revision are generally higher than those of outpatient surgery centers. Hospitals have higher overhead costs, including maintaining a full – service operating room, providing post – operative care, and having a wider range of medical resources available. The cost of using a hospital’s facilities can add $3,000 – $8,000 to the overall cost of the breast implant revision procedure.
5. Anesthesia Costs
Local Anesthesia with Sedation
For some less invasive breast implant revision procedures, local anesthesia with sedation may be used. This involves numbing the breast area and using sedatives to keep the patient relaxed. The cost of local anesthesia with sedation is relatively lower compared to general anesthesia. It typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,000. The anesthesiologist’s fees for administering local anesthesia with sedation are also lower as the procedure requires less monitoring compared to general anesthesia. However, this option may not be suitable for all types of breast implant revisions.
General Anesthesia
When the breast implant revision is more extensive or when the patient prefers to be unconscious during the surgery, general anesthesia is used. General anesthesia requires the patient to be put into a deep sleep, and the anesthesiologist must closely monitor the patient’s vital signs throughout the procedure. The cost of general anesthesia is higher, usually ranging from $3,000 to $5,000. The higher cost is due to the more complex nature of the anesthesia administration, the need for specialized equipment, and the longer – term monitoring required.
6. New Implant Costs
Type of Implant
If a new implant is needed during the revision, the cost will depend on the type of implant chosen. Saline implants are generally more affordable, with a cost per implant ranging from $1,000 to $3,000. Silicone implants, especially cohesive silicone (gummy bear) implants, are more expensive. The cost of silicone implants can range from $3,000 to $5,000 per implant. The choice of implant type will also depend on the patient’s preferences, the reason for the revision, and the surgeon’s recommendation.
Brand and Quality
Different brands of implants may have different price points. Reputable brands that are known for their quality and safety may charge more. These brands often invest in research and development, and their implants may come with better warranties. For example, a well – known brand of silicone implants may cost slightly more than a lesser – known brand, but it may offer more reliable performance and a longer – lasting product.
7. Pre – and Post – operative Care
Pre – operative Consultations and Tests
Before breast implant revision, patients need to have pre – operative consultations with the plastic surgeon. During these consultations, the surgeon will assess the patient’s medical history, perform a physical examination, and discuss the patient’s goals and expectations for the revision. These consultations are not free, and the cost can vary depending on the number of consultations required and the length of each session. Additionally, patients may need to undergo certain pre – operative tests, such as blood tests, electrocardiograms (ECGs), or imaging studies (like mammograms or MRI if there are concerns about implant integrity) to ensure they are in good health for the surgery. The cost of these tests can add up to $500 – $1,500 to the overall cost of the breast implant revision.
Post – operative Medications and Follow – up Visits
After the breast implant revision, patients will need to take medications to manage pain, prevent infection, and aid in the healing process. The cost of these medications, such as antibiotics, painkillers, and anti – inflammatory drugs, can vary depending on the type and duration of the prescription. Patients also need to have follow – up visits with the surgeon to monitor their healing progress. The cost of these follow – up visits, which may occur several times in the weeks and months after the surgery, can range from $500 – $2,000 depending on the number of visits and the complexity of the after – care required.
Cost Range for Breast Implant Revision
The overall cost of breast implant revision can vary widely. On the lower end, a simple revision for a minor issue like changing the size of a relatively uncomplicated implant, using local anesthesia in an outpatient surgery center, may cost around $8,000. However, at the higher end, a complex revision for severe capsular contracture, with the need for a new high – quality silicone implant, general anesthesia in a hospital setting, and extensive post – operative care, can cost upwards of $20,000 or more.
Hidden Costs to Be Aware Of
Additional Unforeseen Complications
During the breast implant revision, the surgeon may encounter unforeseen complications. For example, if there is more extensive damage to the breast tissue than initially anticipated, or if there are adhesions that need to be carefully dissected, it can add to the complexity of the surgery. This may require additional surgical time, more resources, and potentially a different approach. These unforeseen complications can increase the cost of the revision by several thousand dollars.
Multiple Revision Sessions
In some cases, a single breast implant revision may not be sufficient to achieve the desired results. The patient may need multiple revision sessions over time. Each additional session will incur additional costs, including surgeon’s fees, facility fees, anesthesia costs, and implant costs if a new implant is needed. This can significantly increase the overall cost of the breast implant revision process.
How to Save Money on Breast Implant Revision
Research and Compare Surgeons
Take the time to research different plastic surgeons in your area. Look at their qualifications, experience, patient reviews, and before – and – after photos. By comparing multiple surgeons, you may be able to find one who offers high – quality services at a more reasonable price. However, don’t sacrifice quality for cost. Make sure the surgeon is qualified and has a good reputation to ensure a safe and successful revision.
Ask About Package Deals
Some plastic surgery practices may offer package deals for breast implant revision. These packages may include the surgical fee, implant cost, facility fees, anesthesia costs, and a certain number of post – operative follow – up visits. By opting for a package deal, you may be able to save some money compared to paying for each service separately.
Consider Financing Options
Many plastic surgery practices offer financing options to help patients afford their procedures. This can include payment plans with low – interest rates or no – interest periods. Before agreeing to any financing option, make sure you understand the terms and conditions, including the interest rate, repayment schedule, and any potential fees.
Conclusion
The cost of redoing breast implants is influenced by multiple factors, from the reason for revision to the surgeon’s expertise and the location of the surgery. While cost is an important consideration, it should not be the only factor when making a decision. Your health and the quality of the results should be your top priorities. By understanding the factors that contribute to the cost, you can make an informed decision and budget appropriately for your breast implant revision procedure. If you have any specific questions about the cost or the procedure itself, it’s best to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon who can provide you with personalized information.
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