Hi @"Debbie J", II am so sorry about the implant. I had a bilateral TRAM which is similar to a DIEP. It was one big op and 2 revisions including creation of nipples. My surgeon did not charge me out of pocket for the big op which was a massive saving. I think he felt sorry for me as my op was cancelled 3 times. The anesthetist out of pocket was the most expensive at around $2300. I think all up over 3 ops it was an out of pocket of $6000. There are some surgeons around who will see you privately and then do the op publicly but you do have to wait. Or you can go private in the public system which can also be cheaper. Maybe pop this into the choosing breast recon group as a question and others there may be able to help.
Good luck.
Paula xx