CPT 11970 Surgery - Integumentary

How Much Does Rplcmt Tiss Xpndr Perm Implant Cost?

Also known as: Rplcmt tiss xpndr perm implt (CPT 11970)

Removal of a tissue expander and replacement with a permanent implant.

The total estimated cost of Rplcmt Tiss Xpndr Perm Implant (CPT 11970) is $1,304 to $2,119, including hospital fees, anesthesia, and supplies. The surgeon's Medicare fee alone is $517.

Total Estimated Cost of Care

$1,304 — $2,119

This estimate includes hospital facility fees, anesthesia, and supplies .

Surgeon/Physician Fee
$517
Hospital Facility Fee
$1,035
Anesthesia (est.)
$78
Important: The physician fee of $517 shown in the cost cards below is what Medicare pays the surgeon/doctor only. The hospital charges a separate facility fee that typically makes up 70-85% of the total cost.
Medicare Physician Fee (Facility Setting)
$517
Physician component only — CMS PFS 2026

Patient Guide: Rplcmt Tiss Xpndr Perm Implant

What you need to know before your appointment

What to Expect

Under anesthesia, the surgeon removes the tissue expander and inserts a permanent implant (such as a breast implant) in the pocket that was created.

How Long Does It Take?

1-2 hours

Common Reasons Doctors Order This

Final stage of breast reconstruction, replacing tissue expander with permanent breast implant

How to Prepare

Fast before surgery. This is the final step in the reconstruction process.

Procedures Commonly Done Together

These procedures are frequently performed alongside Rplcmt tiss xpndr perm implt

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How to Reduce Your Cost for Rplcmt tiss xpndr perm implt

Practical tips that can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars

  • 1
    Ask about cash-pay discounts

    Many hospitals and clinics offer 20-40% discounts for self-pay patients. Always ask before scheduling.

  • 2
    Compare facility vs. office setting costs

    Some procedures cost significantly less in an office setting than a hospital. Ask your provider about options.

  • 3
    Shop around — costs vary significantly

    Costs can vary 2-3x between providers in the same city. Get quotes from multiple facilities.

How is the Price Calculated?

Medicare calculates procedure payments using Relative Value Units (RVUs). Each procedure has three components multiplied by a conversion factor ($33.40 in 2026) and adjusted by geographic cost indices.

7.30
Work RVU
6.84
Practice Expense RVU
1.35
Malpractice RVU
15.49
Total RVU

Payment = Total RVU (15.49) x CF ($33.40) = $517

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Rplcmt tiss xpndr perm implt cost?

The Medicare facility rate for Rplcmt tiss xpndr perm implt is $517. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).

How much does Rplcmt tiss xpndr perm implt cost without insurance?

Without insurance, the cost of Rplcmt tiss xpndr perm implt can range from 150% of Medicare to 500% of Medicare depending on the facility. Many hospitals and clinics offer self-pay discounts of 20-40% off their chargemaster price. Always ask about cash pricing before your visit.

Does insurance cover Rplcmt tiss xpndr perm implt?

Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Rplcmt tiss xpndr perm implt when ordered by a physician for a medically necessary reason. Your out-of-pocket cost depends on your plan's deductible, copay/coinsurance structure, and whether you use an in-network provider. Check with your insurance company before scheduling to confirm coverage and get a cost estimate.

Why does the cost vary so much by location?

Medicare adjusts payments using Geographic Practice Cost Indices (GPCIs) that reflect local differences in physician work costs, practice expenses, and malpractice insurance. Manhattan, San Francisco, and other high-cost areas pay significantly more than rural regions. Commercial insurers follow similar geographic patterns.

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