According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, or ASPS, the average breast explant surgery cost is approximately $4,000. This sum is according to the most recent statistics from the ASPS; however, keep in mind that it does not include itemized costs such as the price of your surgical facility, anesthesia, and other miscellaneous items.
Despite the fact that the exact cost of breast explant surgery is quite difficult to estimate (because the very nature of the surgery varies so widely according to each patient’s unique needs), we certainly understand that you want to know how much your surgery is going to cost before scheduling it.
Therefore, we would like to offer an outline of the elements that will make up your overall bill for this surgery. Every plastic surgery can be broken down into individual costs. The cost your surgeon charges, for example, will be separate from the price the surgical facility or hospital charges.
Likewise, anesthesiologists charge their own fees. And then there’s the price of things like compression garments, medications, pre-surgery tests, etc.
Below, we’ll examine each of these costs and explore payment options for patients who are interested in special financing.
How Much Does Breast Explant Surgery Cost?
Some plastic surgeons may have a single, all-inclusive cost for breast explant surgery. In this case, there are no hidden fees, and everything is lumped into one sum.
Other surgeons may charge a specific surgeon’s fee but then provide an itemized cost breakdown of the additional costs. Regardless of how this surgery is billed, the cost of every breast implant removal surgery can be broken down into the individual costs associated with the procedure, including:
Surgeon’s fee
Your surgeon will charge a fee for their services. This usually includes the cost of consultation appointments, follow-up appointments after surgery, and the actual surgery itself. This fee will vary based on your surgeon’s expertise, geographical location, experience, and the amount of work they put into your care.
For example, some surgeries may last longer than others. The longer your surgeon is in the operating room with you, the more expensive the procedure will be.
Medical test fees
Patients frequently require medical tests prior to surgery. This is usually so that they can be medically cleared for the procedure. Patients will need to pay for these tests themselves.
Surgical facility costs
Most surgical facilities charge a fee, which includes a range of items — from the cost of nursing care, to the cost of the medical tools and equipment used during the procedure, to utility fees, and more.
Anesthesia fee
Your anesthesiologist will be paid separately from your surgeon. They will charge their own fees, which will vary depending on the nature of the anesthesia used and the duration of time you are in surgery and need to be monitored.
Additional post-surgery costs
Finally, additional fees for things like compression garments and medications will also need to be paid for by the patient out-of-pocket. These items are often overlooked because they aren’t needed until after the surgery has been completed.
Additional procedures
You might notice from the breast explant before and after photos you see that some patients have additional work done during their explant surgery. Some opt for liposuction, a breast lift, or even a fat transfer procedure. Naturally, the addition of these procedures will increase the overall cost of surgery.
Common Reasons for Breast Implant Removal
Many patients choose to have their breast implants removed for various reasons, both medical and personal. One of the most common medical reasons is implant rupture, which occurs when the implant’s outer shell develops a tear or hole.
Another frequent concern is capsular contracture, where a scar tissue capsule forms around the implant and hardens, causing discomfort or an unnatural appearance. Some women experience breast implant illness (BII), a collection of symptoms they believe are related to their implants.
Additionally, patients may simply want a different size or decide they no longer desire augmented breasts. Changes in lifestyle, body shape, or personal preferences over time can motivate the decision for removing breast implants. Some women opt for the breast implant removal procedure before undergoing breast reconstruction following a mastectomy.
Whatever your reason, it’s important to discuss your goals and concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can help you understand your options.
Risks Associated with Breast Implant Removal
While the breast implant removal procedure is generally safe, like any surgery, it carries certain risks that patients should understand. Infection at the surgical site is a possible complication, though proper post-operative care significantly reduces this risk. Bleeding and hematoma formation can occur during or after surgery.
Some patients experience changes in breast sensation, which may be temporary or permanent. Breast implant removal scarring is inevitable with any surgical procedure, and the extent depends on factors like your healing process and surgical technique. When both the implant and the scar capsule are removed together (en bloc removal), there’s a slightly higher risk of complications, but often better outcomes for those with specific health concerns.
Asymmetry between breasts is another potential issue, particularly if only one implant is removed or if your natural breast tissue has changed over time. Your surgeon will discuss these risks during consultation and explain how they minimize complications through careful surgical planning and technique.
Breast Explant Surgery Cost FAQ
Does insurance cover breast implant removal?
This depends on what insurance provider you have and what plan you have. It also depends on what it is that has motivated you to undergo breast implant removal. If you are getting your implants removed because you simply don’t like them anymore (the size or shape of them, for example), this surgery would not be covered by insurance, and you would be responsible for the full breast implant removal cost.
On the other hand, in some cases, removal of breast implants may be medically necessary.
Just as the cost of breast implant surgery may be partially covered when medically indicated, removal can sometimes be covered too. It’s certainly worth inquiring with your insurance provider to see if the procedure may be paid for in full or in part.
Is breast implant removal medically necessary?
Sometimes it is, but not always. If you are having one or both implants removed for aesthetic reasons, this means the procedure is not a medical necessity.
On the other hand, if you had a rupture, capsular contracture (fibrous scar tissue around the breast implant), or the development of cancer or another illness near your implants, removal may be a “medically necessary” procedure. This means it may be covered by insurance. This varies from patient to patient and plan to plan, however.
What’s the difference between reconstructive and elective surgery?
A reconstructive plastic surgery aims to restore appearance and/or function to the individual’s body. Elective surgery is a surgery that is conducted because the patient is unhappy or uncomfortable with a certain aspect of their body. Elective plastic surgery (sometimes referred to as cosmetic surgery) is not medically necessary.
Do you always need a breast lift after implant removal?
No, not always. This really depends on your desired goals and your budget. If it’s within your budget to undergo a breast lift and you feel that you desire a more lifted look after your implants have been removed, a breast lift may be a good option.
Some patients choose another breast augmentation surgery (they have their old implants replaced with new ones). Or, some patients don’t feel they need a lift or added volume. They may have enough natural breast tissue to maintain good breast form and size, and in this case, no additional procedures are necessary.
Is explant surgery worth it?
For many patients, explant surgery is absolutely worth it. Studies show high satisfaction rates, with patients reporting improved body image and quality of life after removal.
Whether removing implants for health concerns or personal preference, most women feel relieved and confident with their decision. Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific goals and expectations.
Will my breasts sag after explant?
Sagging after explant depends on several factors, including skin elasticity, implant size, and duration of wear. While some patients experience initial changes, not all breasts inevitably sag.
Many women combine explant with a breast lift to achieve optimal results. Your natural breast tissue and skin quality play significant roles in your final appearance.
How long to wear a bra after explant?
Most surgeons recommend wearing a surgical compression bra continuously for the first two to three weeks after explant surgery. After that, transition to a soft, supportive sports bra for an additional four weeks. Avoid underwire bras for at least six weeks post-surgery to allow proper healing and tissue settling.
Do breasts get bigger after explant?
No, breasts don’t get bigger after explant surgery. Initially, they’ll appear smaller due to implant removal. However, natural breast tissue may gradually “fluff out” and settle over several months, creating a softer, more natural appearance.
Your final size depends on your pre-augmentation breast tissue and any additional procedures performed during explant.
Contact Us to Schedule a Consultation
To learn more about the cost of breast explant surgery or to find out if you are a good candidate for breast implant removal surgery, book a consultation appointment with female board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ashley Steinberg today. We’ll also be able to discuss how you can finance your procedure.
We look forward to meeting with you!
References
https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-implant-removal
