Most South African medical aid providers do not offer coverage for cosmetic procedures (both surgical and non-surgical). With bank loans being difficult and time consuming to obtain, MediFin - a specialised financial services provider that provides solutions for the consumer - is at the forefront of responding to challenging conditions in the healthcare market.

Surgical and non-surgical procedures have become increasingly difficult to attain for many South Africans. With surgical procedures for breast reduction or enhancement ranging between R 30 000 and R 60 000, cosmetic specialist Dr Nerina Wilkinson says: “Many patients have difficulty in financially planning for breast surgery and some patients consult me for many years before they can afford the procedure.” MediFin provides patients with a great solution, giving them the option of “realizing their dreams and having their surgical procedure done” now, by offering financial solutions that provide patients with easy payment terms and conditions.

Trained as a plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr Nerina Wilkinson developed a passion for cosmetic surgical procedures that strive for natural looking results while enhancing physical appearance. Her surgery includes cosmetic surgery for all areas of the body, inlcuding well-known procedures such as liposuction and tummy tucks. However, breast surgical procedures are what she enjoys the most. “Because I am a female plastic surgeon I am able to connect with my patients and I understand their concerns and expectations. All forms of breast surgery (be it enlarging, reducing or lifting) can transform a patient’s confidence affecting every aspect of their lives. I love being a part of that transformation experience.”

Breast surgery can be for cosmetic or re-constructive reasons particularly after mastectomy surgery. In the case of surgery for breast cancer patients, a new breast can be reconstructed by using silicone breast implants.  More complicated micro-surgical procedures transplant tissues from the tummy area, for example, to the breast area for a more natural result without implants. Patients who require chemotherapy and radiotherapy to the mastectomy area are at risk of a complicated re-constructive procedure.  Dr Wilkinson urges women, particularly over the age of 40, to have yearly breast examinations and mammograms done.

For patients who have undergone mastectomy surgery, a team approach is taken when planning the entire re-constructive process to achieve the best possible results for the patient. In the event of early cancer detection, the breast cancer surgeon can perform a skin–sparing mastectomy that guarantees a very natural breast reconstruction. Most patients will experience loss of sensation due to the removal of the nipple areola. Some sensation can however return to the surrounding skin. With the advancement of fat injections into the compromised area, patients do achieve more sensation.  

Dr Wilkinson's practice concentrates primarily on cosmetic breast surgical procedures such as breast reductions and augmentations. Some patients feel unhappy with 'drooping' breasts as a result of breast-feeding. After having their breasts lifted, these patients are left feeling more confident. According to Dr Wilkinson, most of her patients seek 'extremely natural results.' With the newer shaped or teardrop implants, patients are able to improve the shape of the breast in a way that looks natural. For patients seeking minimal enhancement with improved cleavage, the procedures include removing fat from unwanted areas and then re-injecting the fat into the breasts to improve their shape.  

Dr Wilkinson works regularly with MediFin to assist patients with the careful planning of their surgeries. Prospective healthcare clients can now speedily access the best cosmetic surgical treatment through MediFin's easy online application which provides an immediate response to inquiries. In addition, MediFin's approach does away with collateral and down payments and loans are not subject to early settlement penalties or exorbitant interest rates. MediFin’s financial solutions are tailored to the needs of the consumer.

Payment terms are customised according to the patient’s credit and affordability profile allowing for terms that suit the patient.  MediFin presents a unique solution to the crisis of accessing quality healthcare within the South African medical landscape - allowing patients the freedom to choose surgeons based on hospital reputation and exceptional care, not only based on the price of the procedure.

For more information about MediFin contact 0861 000 808, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.medifin.co.za