How much does breast augmentation cost?

One of the most common questions about breast augmentation is, "How much do breast implants costs?"

While it's impossible to know at first glance exactly how much this procedure will cost for any one person, there are ballpark estimates available. For example, a breast augmentation can range in price from $6,000 to $12,000. But why such a broad range in pricing?

Breast augmentations can range in pricing due to many factors. Learning about these factors can help patients better prepare and plan for what could be one of the most life and confidence-enhancing procedures available, and everything that goes into determining the cost so that you can make the most informed decision possible.

Factors that determine implant cost

Type of implant

There is a difference in cost between silicone implants and saline breast implants. Silicone implants are more expensive than their saline counterparts because it is more expensive to manufacture and distribute medical-grade silicone versus saline implants, which is comprised of sterile salt water. Saline implants, as a result, are much cheaper to produce.

Geographical location

Believe it or not, where you choose to have your surgery performed can have a big impact on how much you pay.

Typically, cosmetic plastic surgeries that take place in larger, metropolitan areas and cities, where the cost of living is much higher, will cost more than those that are performed in smaller cities and geographic areas. The higher cost of living plus a higher demand for these surgeries often translate into higher prices for almost everything.

For example, a breast augmentation may cost more in Houston than it does in Chicago, while a breast augmentation in Atlanta may cost less than it does Chicago.

Ultimately, it may be practical to plan to travel to a different city or state if there is a dramatic cost difference with a plastic surgeon you feel comfortable with.

Experience of the plastic surgeon

Another factor that impacts the cost of a breast augmentation is the surgeon and facility you choose. Often, surgeons with extensive experience, significant credentials and specialized training will cost more than those with less experience or training. This is not to say that the most expensive surgeon is the best one for you, but it is common to see higher prices from Surgeons who charge more based on their level of expertise.

It's important to remember that you should seek out a board-certified plastic surgeon whose methods and aesthetic style match well with your goals. Breast augmentation can be a life-altering experience, so it's always better to choose a surgeon based not just on cost, but experience and training.

Related fees

Other fees that you will encounter for implant surgery include the following:

• Anesthesia
• Surgical facility costs
• Surgeon's fees
• Post-procedure medications
• Post-surgery garments

Ways to manage the cost of breast augmentation

Though breast augmentations are not typically covered by insurance, most established and reputable plastic surgeons will provide a variety of options to help make breast augmentations and other procedures affordable and accessible.

Look into financing options

Because cosmetic plastic surgery has become so popular over the years, there is an increasing number of options to help patients manage the cost.

Plastic surgery offices often accept major credit cards and/or have a payment plan in place to help make fees manageable. Additionally, plastic surgeons can extend financing, like CareCredit, to patients who qualify, making breast augmentations more affordable and accessible.

It may also be possible to get a secured or unsecured personal loan from your bank. These types of loans usually have similar interest rates to credit cards, but unlike credit cards, the rates and timetables for repayment are fixed. This is an attractive option for anyone with decent credit.

Your plastic surgeon can help you reach your goals

Breast enhancement can be a wonderful, positive experience that boosts your happiness and self-confidence. If you're concerned about the cost, consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can give you more information on ways to manage the financial burden so that you can take the next step in looking and feeling your best.