Breaking Down Costs of Breast Augmentation

Breasts come in all shapes and sizes. Some women feel that their breasts are too small for their liking or for their frame and others feel that their breasts have lost some of the volume and definition they once had. Breast augmentation is an effective option for enhancing breast size and filling out your figure. But you may be concerned about how much breast augmentation will cost and if it is affordable.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of breast augmentation surgery in 2019 was $3,947. However, this is not inclusive of all of the expenses related to the procedure. The overall cost may range from $5,000 to $10,000, and there are several different factors that go into determining the price.

Type of Implant

There are two major types of breast implants: saline and silicone. Each of these also has variations, such as a smooth or textured shell.

Saline

Saline implants are less expensive because they are filled with a salt water solution. The doctor will create a small incision, and then the deflated implant will be inserted. Once it is in place, it is filled with saline to create the desired breast size. Saline implants are FDA-approved for patients aged 18 and older.

Silicone

Silicone implants can be more expensive, but can offer a broader range of consistencies. These implants come pre-filled to the size and shape you want, and since they are made from a gel substance, many patients find they look and feel more natural. The volume of a saline implant can be easily adjusted by adding or removing fluid to a standard implant. Silicone implants are FDA-approved for patients aged 22 and older.

Type of Surgery

Breast implants can be inserted in front of (sub-glandular) or behind (sub-muscular) the pectoral muscle. Some surgeons also offer a dual-plane option that combines these two placements; the top of the implant is placed behind the muscle, while the bottom is in front of the muscle. The placement of the implant can affect the complexity and length of surgery which may affect cost.

Medical Tests

Your doctor may run some medical tests prior to surgery to ensure you are healthy enough for surgery and identify any potential problems. If you have any underlying conditions, they want to make sure they are well managed and that they can plan the procedure accordingly to keep you as safe as possible and minimize complications. Medical tests are a separate charge outside of surgical fees.

Anesthesia

Many patients are given general anesthesia during breast augmentation surgery. This means that you are fully sedated, which can enhance comfort. Anesthesia is provided by both anesthesiologists and CRNA’s, and you may receive this as a separate bill.

Location of Surgery

Whether you have surgery in a hospital or an outpatient surgical center can impact also cost. These facilities often charge hourly fees for the use of the operating room or surgical suite. Breast augmentation generally takes less than two hours to perform. But, if your surgery ends up taking longer than anticipated, additional charges may apply.

Some plastic surgeons have in-office surgery suites, which may reduce fees since everything is done in-house. However, you want to verify that the surgical suite is accredited.

Post-Surgical Garments

After your breast augmentation, the doctor will have you wear compression garments or a surgical bra. They provide additional support as you heal and help to keep your new breasts from moving around too much and disturbing the incisions. Once the compression garments are removed, you will want to wear a soft bra without an underwire while you recover.

Post-Surgical Care

Immediately following surgery, you may receive a prescription for antibiotics or pain relievers. The price will depend on your insurance plan’s prescription coverage. Your doctor may also prescribe scar cream or other products to promote healing and minimize the appearance of scars.

It is also important to remember that breast implants are not always permanent. They may need to be replaced after several years. If your implant becomes damaged or starts leaking, it will need to be replaced or removed. If you want to change the size of your breasts later on, additional surgery will be required, which will add to your overall costs.

Periodic MRIs are recommended to make sure the implants have not ruptured, and there are no complications. MRIs and implant replacement are costs that occur later on and are not included in your original breast augmentation surgery. If you decide that you want your implants removed, that will require additional surgery as well.

Geographic Location

Many people do not realize that where you live (or where your surgeon is located) can affect the cost of breast augmentation. Prices tend to be higher in larger cities where the cost of living is more. Doctors have more overhead in terms of rent, staff, and insurance. Cities with a lower cost of living may be less expensive when it comes to surgery. It is a good idea to compare prices in surrounding areas.

Experience Level

Not all doctors have the same level of training and experience. You will likely pay more for a surgeon who has a higher level of skill or specialized training. Some plastic surgeons also charge consultation fees, while others perform this service for free. Do your research before selecting a surgeon and ensure that they are board-certified. Read online reviews and testimonials from previous patients and ask to see before and after photos to get a feel for what you can expect in terms of results. It can be worth it to pay more for a higher-quality experience.

Additional Procedures

The cost of surgery can also vary depending on whether you are undergoing other procedures at the same time. Some patients choose breast augmentation as part of a mommy makeover or in conjunction with a breast lift, so they only need to have surgery once and can address multiple areas. Your doctor can let you know which procedures can be safely combined and how that will impact the price of surgery and length of recovery.

Enhance Your Figure with Breast Augmentation Surgery

Get the larger, fuller breasts you desire with breast augmentation surgery. During your consultation, your doctor can help you choose the right size, shape, and type of implant to complement your figure. They will gather a variety of information to create a personalized plan to meet your needs. Once a surgical plan is developed, your doctor can provide you with a more detailed breakdown of the cost. Many practices offer payment plans and financing to make surgery more affordable.

If you are ready for a change and are seeking breast augmentation, schedule a consultation with Dr. George Sanders or a board-certified plastic surgeon near you. Find out what you can expect, what type of results are possible, and how much the procedure may cost. Breast enhancement can be a worthwhile investment to boost your confidence and self-esteem.