Breast Lift Surgery - How Much Is It?

The cost of a breast lift involves three fees: the anesthesia fee, the facility fee and the surgeon's fee. The surgeon's fee is the most difficult to predict without first knowing the extent of the procedure and the qualifications of the plastic surgeon.

When investigating breast lift and its cost, keep in mind that it is a serious surgical procedure, and shopping for the best price without considering the quality, background and experience of the surgeon is a mistake.

The average cost of a breast lift varies from $3,500 to $6,000. Cost for anesthesia ranges from $1,000 to $1,300. The facility fee (or hospital fee) ranges from $500 to $1,500. The remaining cost is the surgeon's fee.

If more than one procedure is done at the same time, then the total cost will be more, but less than if the procedures were performed separately.

Skill and Training

It's important to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon from the American Board of Plastic Surgery with extensive experience in all of the breast-related procedures. Board certification may not always guarantee the best results; however, board certification does require specific and 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 that are designated by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS), such as the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Extent of Procedure Affects Breast Lift Cost

If surgery is for smaller breasts, where fewer incisions are needed, then the fee may be lower.

Also, if the breast lift is performed in conjunction with breast implants, the costs will be higher.

Each breast surgery is unique, so it's premature to ask, "How much will the breast lift cost?" before your surgeon has examined and measured your breasts and shape, and discussed your expectations and desired results.

Breast Lift Payments

Since breast lift surgery is primarily for cosmetic purposes, it is rarely covered by insurance. When you visit your plastic surgeon for the initial consultation, ask about the payment plans available.

For financing options and tips, please read our article about patient financing.

Want information on another procedure? Read an overview of plastic surgery cost.

[page updated June 2008]