A breast implant warranty is one of the best advancements in the cosmetic prosthetic industry to date. Breast implant manufacturers have worked diligently to design the very best implant possible and almost all companies now stand behind these devices by offering a standard replacement warranty. Additionally, most companies also offer a warranty upgrade which provides substantial additional coverage, for a very nominal fee.
This article provides detailed information on warranty coverage for breast prosthetics and informs patients how to file a claim for a damaged implant.
Standard Breast Implant Warranty
Most standard warranties cover full lifetime product replacement of any implant which fails, ruptures or leaks. The company will also provide a matching contralateral prosthesis for the unaffected breast, if the surgeon requests replacement of both implants.
The standard warranty also provides a set fee, usually $1200, to cover associated surgical costs needed to replace defective or broken implants. This fee benefit lasts for 10 years from the date of the original implantation.
This standard warranty is provided at no additional charge and is included with virtually every possible type of breast implant sold today.
Enhanced Implant Warranty
An upgrade on the standard warranty is also available from most implant manufacturers. This upgrade typically costs $100 and must be purchased within a month and a half after augmentation surgery.
This upgraded warranty provides the exact same benefits as the standard warranty, with the exception of allowing a $2400 reimbursement of surgical costs needed for implant replacement surgery for a term of 10 years from the date of first implantation.
This is a great upgrade, and for such a low cost, is really a no-brainer.
Exceptions to a Breast Implant Guarantee
Breast implant guarantees do not cover changing implants simply for personal reasons, such as moving up to a larger size. They also do not cover surgical or product replacement expenses for any implant which is removed intact and in undamaged condition.
Replacement warranties do not cover surgical technique issues which might cause implant rippling or capsular contracture. In addition, most capsular contracture treatments will also void many warranties.
Basically, the warranty will cover implant failure in any form, but will not cover expenses which are not caused directly by an implant malfunction, rupture or leakage.
Breast Implant Warranty Claims
The implant warranty is a terrific idea and takes much of the financial risk out of the surgical process. Patients who fear having to replace implants can be rest assured that the product manufacturer will provide a new implant at any time the old one fails.
The manufacturer will also help to defer the cost of surgical placement of the new implant and even the unaffected other breast, if indicated.
The enhanced warranty is an obvious choice, since the cost is very low and the coverage helps to match the rising costs of surgical implant replacement, both now and in the future.
To file a claim for a damaged implant simply contact the manufacturer and begin the easy process. If you are not sure which type of implant you have received, be sure to contact your surgeon to find out.
