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What Does Breast Augmentation Cost?

The number of options and methods available for breast augmentation makes it difficult to answer the question, "How much does it cost?"

The cost of breast augmentation varies widely, depending on factors such as the surgeon's skill, the region where you have the surgery performed, whether the surgery takes place in the office or in a hospital, what type of surgery you choose and what type of anesthesia is used.

The breast implants themselves also have a cost, which is typically part of the surgery fee.

The total cost ranges from $5,000 to $15,000. The cost for the implants is $1,000 to $1,300; the anesthesia fee is typically $600 to $800; the facility fee typically ranges from $800 to $1,200. The remaining cost is the surgeon's fee, which typically varies more than the other fees associated with breast surgery. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the national average surgeon's fee for breast augmentation is about $3,350.

Skill and Training

The plastic surgeon's training and skill are important factors in the cost. The most qualified surgeons who have performed a large number of surgeries typically command higher fees.

It's best to find a board-certified surgeon who has years of surgical training and a background in breast surgery. Using a board-certified plastic surgeon does not guarantee satisfactory results; however, board certification does require rigorous surgical education and training that improves the odds for a successful outcome.

The type of certification is also important. There are more than 150 self-designated boards, but only a handful, such as the American Board of Plastic Surgery, that are recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS). Start your search for the right surgeon now.

Extent of Procedure

The type of surgery also influences your breast augmentation cost. There are a number of different methods for the breast implant procedure. (Read more about choices of placement and incision.) Some implant techniques are easier and less time consuming. The type of anesthesia used will impact the cost as well. General anesthesia (you are asleep) is more costly than a local anesthetic (you are sedated but remain awake).

Learn more about breast augmentation

Making Payments

Most surgical practices are willing to accept payments with a variety of financing options. Be sure to ask your surgeon or a staff member about payment plans.

Breast augmentation with breast implants is typically considered a purely cosmetic plastic surgery procedure and is not usually covered by insurance. (Read more about patient financing.)

Want information on another procedure? Read an overview of plastic surgery cost, laser hair removal cost or pricing information for other popular procedures.

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[page updated May 10, 2011]