While no one can guarantee that the outcome of a breast augmentation will be perfect, it’s good to know that there are warranties when it comes to the implants that are used. In the United States, there are three main FDA approved companies that supply breast implants: Allergan, Mentor and Sientra, and all three offer warranties with their breast implants. Once the implant is placed, the warranty program is automatic and there is no charge for enrollment.
In general terms, the warranties cover problems that may occur with the implant itself such as rupture or deflation. In some cases, it also covers part of the breast augmentation costs. Be sure to read the breast implant warranty very carefully so you know what is covered and what is not. For example, there are other problems that might occur such as capsular contracture or wrinkling that may not be covered. As a result, you may want to consider purchasing an extended warranty directly with the implant company.
Did you know that all breast implants are numbered? Each one has a serial number in order to properly identify it. As part of your post-operative packet of information, you will receive stickers with the implant serial numbers of your breast implants. Please be sure to keep this information in a safe place should you need to refer to it.
Another set of identifying stickers will be sent to the implant manufacturer, along with your social security number and the information about your surgery. This information is kept for warranty and identification purposes. This way, if a problem arises with a particular lot of breast implants, the manufacturer will be able to quickly notify those who are affected by it.
The following is a brief recap of the various breast implant manufacturer warranty programs from Allergan, Mentor and Sientra…
Allergan’s program is called ConfidencePlus, which covers lifetime product replacement for all saline and silicone implants, and 10 years of financial assistance up to $1200 that can be applied to other costs associated with the surgery. For $100, you can purchase Allergan’s extended program, which covers up to $2400 toward the surgery. Allergan can be reached at 800-624-4261.
Mentor’s program for saline implants is called the Mentor Advantage Limited Warranty. It covers the cost of the implant if it should fail, replacement of the other implant at the surgeon’s request, and 10 years of financial assistance totaling $1200 for other costs associated with the revision surgery. For $100, you can purchase the Mentor Enhanced Advantage Limited Warranty, which must be purchased within 45 days of the breast augmentation and provides up to $2400 financial assistance. Mentor can be reached at 866-250-5115.
Sientra’s Limited Warranty Program covers up to $3,600 of certain out-of-pocket costs directly related to revision surgery performed within 10 years. They also offer lifetime free replacement of the implant should it rupture, and free opposite side implant, if needed. Sientra can be reached at 888-708-0808.
Please be sure to discuss the warranty details with your doctor to make sure that nothing has changed.
