Tips for Affording Breast Implants

September 11, 2017

Many women are interested in breast implants but are dismayed when they learn that they will have to pay for the entire procedure themselves. Health insurance rarely covers cosmetic procedures of any sort unless they are performed for health reasons. Therefore, depending on one’s insurance plan, breast implants may only be covered or partially covered for patients having them as part of breast reconstruction. Here are some tips for affording breast implants when they are not covered by health insurance.

Credit Cards

Those who have big enough lines of credit may be able to cover all or most of the expenses of surgery with credit cards. Patients should beware of regular credit cards, which often have high rates of interest. Instead, check into medical credit cards, which are accepted by many surgeons and often offer special interest rates if the balance is paid off within a certain time.

Payment Plans

Many offices actually offer payment plan options. These may allow patients to experience great interest rates as they pay off their bills over time. Some plastic surgeons allow for flexible payment plans depending on certain factors, such as cost, upfront payments, and cash payments.

Loans

While a loan may not be the best option for paying, it can be an option for those who are unable to get any credit and have no money saved up for the procedure. There are many ways to get loans. Some may be able to loan from their life insurance, their 401k or their home equity. A personal loan may be a good option because it offers a fixed interest rate.

Creative Options

Patients may want to consider other options that could help them meet their goals. Borrowing money from family and friends, checking to see if they can get discounts on their costs by paying upfront or offering to be a spokes-model may at least reduce costs. Less creatively, individuals could simply wait to get their breast implants until they have saved up enough money for the surgery.

Of course, all patients should check with their insurance companies before having breast implants. Some are surprised to discover certain helpful clauses within their policies that may offset the costs. Additionally, patients are encouraged to meet with the office manager at Dr. Tavoussi’s office who will be able to discuss payment plans offered through OC Cosmetic Surgery Clinique.