Breast Augmentation Cost

• The average cost for breast augmentation in the United States ranges from $4,000 to $10,000.
• This includes the cost of the implants, which ranges from $1,000 to $1,300 as well as a facility fee of $800 to $1,200, an anesthesia fee of $600 to $800 and the surgeon's fee that averages $4,005 for silicone-gel filled implants and $3,583 for saline implants. Patients in the western United States can expect to pay the highest average surgeon's fee of about $3,949, while patients in the south central part of the country generally pay lower fees with an average of $2,739.
• Keep in mind that if you are trying to reverse changes in your breasts brought about by pregnancy, breastfeeding, or aging, you might also need a breast lift, since augmentation alone will not correct sagging.

• The surgeon will make an incision either around the nipple, in the breast crease or under the armpit and will then lift breast tissue and skin to create a pocket in which to insert the implant, either behind the breast tissue or behind the chest muscle. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons[1] gives an overview of the procedure.

• Patients who are dissatisfied with the results of their breast augmentation often end up paying for corrective surgery, which can cost just as much as, or more than, the initial procedure.
• Breast augmentation may be costly to maintain. Complications or leakage probably will make it necessary to replace the implants at a later date, and that can cost just as much as the initial insertion.
• Silicone-gel filled implants, which the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently re-approved for general use, require regular MRIs - three years after surgery and then every two years - to check for rupture. MRIs cost $1,000 or more and probably will not be covered by insurance.

• Tip: If you plan to have more than one cosmetic surgery procedure, getting both done at the same time will save you money on anesthesia and facility fees. Also, some surgeons will offer discounted surgery to patients who agree to sign a model release form that allows the use of their before and after photographs.

• Look for a surgeon, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, who has plenty of experience performing breast augmentations. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons[2] provides a free referral service. When you meet with the surgeon, ask to see before and after photos of previous patients.
• Tip: Look at photographs and think about your desired goals so you can discuss them with your surgeon. Based on the look and feel you hope to achieve, your doctor will help you decide which type and shape of implants are right for you and how to position them.
• Tip: Learn about the possible complications of breast augmentation, which include breast pain, changes in nipple sensation and hardening of the breast tissue around the implant. The FDA provides information on risks. Also, be aware that if you choose to have the implants removed, your breasts probably will not look the same as they did before surgery.

1.  www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-augmentation.html
2.  www1.plasticsurgery.org/find_a_surgeon/

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