Posted March 27, 2024 in Breast Implant
Breast augmentation surgery with breast implants is one of the most satisfying procedures that female patients undergo, especially if small breasts have always been a problem. Before you dive head first into the decision to get breast implants, there’s a lot to know about the procedure, including how much breast implants cost and other expenses that come along with the surgery. According to the latest statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average price of breast augmentation surgery is $4,294. From deciding on the correct type of breast implant for you to weighing your financing options, this is everything to consider when choosing to get breast implants.
Comparing The Cost of Different Types of Breast Implants
There are two types of breast implants used in breast enhancement surgeries: silicone and saline implants. Saline implants have been around since the 1960s and have an outer silicone shell filled with sterile salt water. However, the saline fill makes them more visible under the skin and can cause rippling. On the other hand, silicone implants are entirely made of silicone, both the shell and filing agent, and feel more like natural breasts.
Of the two, saline is generally a more cost-effective option. Different manufacturers have different costs associated with their implants. Of all the implants, cohesive silicone gel implants (gummy bear implants) are the most expensive option. Still, some patients feel they are worth it since they are most anatomically shaped, and, in the event of a leakage, the gel stays together as one piece, so it’s easier to remove with less threat to the body.
Bear in mind that the implant you ultimately decide is best for you can influence the overall price of your breast implant surgery.
Other Surgical Expenses to Know About
When you undergo a breast augmentation, you’re not paying just for the implants themselves.. There are a handful of other expenses factored into the overall price. Your surgeon’s expertise and skill, surgical facility and operating room costs comprise a large portion of the price of your surgery. Even the implant placement can affect the complexity and length of your breast implant surgery, leading to a higher price tag. You’ll also be responsible for paying for anesthesia, which is necessary to make your surgery comfortable.
Any pre-surgery tests performed will likely incur an additional expense. Still, they are necessary and well worth it, as pre-procedure testing ensures you are healthy enough to undergo surgery. These tests are an additional charge, and some may be able to be run through your insurance.
After your surgery, there will be a few extra costs you’ll want to factor into your overall breast surgery budget. Although you’ll wake up from your surgery in a surgical bra, as your body heals, you’ll need to change out one-sized post-op bra for another, which is not typically covered in your breast augmentation consultation price from Dr. Brothers. Also, any other post-surgical care, like prescriptions for antibiotics, pain relievers, gauze, medical tape, and scar creams, fall outside the cost of your surgery but are essential to purchase. Regular yearly mammograms and period MRIs to screen for breast health and breast implant safety are also not covered in your surgical quote.
Lastly, even though breast implants are long-lasting medical devices, they are not permanent and likely will need to be replaced at some point. Implant replacement and explant surgeries are separate costs, and you should always consider them when deciding your plastic surgery budget.
Location Matters
Not all plastic surgeons charge the same for breast implant surgery, and your surgeon’s geographic location can make a big difference in what you’ll pay. Prices are generally higher (for all cosmetic procedures) in larger cities, which cost more to operate an aesthetic surgical business due to higher expenses, rent, and the cost of living. Still, surgeon expertise is paramount, so don’t doctor shop to save a few bucks.
The Importance of a Consultation
During your consultation with Dr. Brothers, you’ll have time to ask him all your questions about your breast implant surgery. He spends plenty of time with each patient, discussing their goals and desired results, and helps you to understand the surgery better. He will also guide you in choosing the best implant type and size for you and the placement. Once Dr. Brothers has a good idea of what you hope to achieve from the surgery, he and his team can present a price quote for you so that you have full transparency into all the costs associated with your breast implant surgery. We customize each estimate to your needs.
Financing Your Breast Implant Surgery
Unlike a breast reduction surgery, which may be partially covered by insurance, with a breast augmentation, you’ll need to pay out of pocket entirely for the procedure since insurance will not cover it. But there’s no need to worry if you still need to save up for it. Payment options run the gamut from using a credit card to paying cash. Financing is also available through CareCredit®, a healthcare credit card.
