A breast augmentation (augmentation mammoplasty) is an elective cosmetic procedure designed to enhance the size and shape of the breasts, typically using artificial implants. Since it is not medically necessary, the patient is responsible for the full cost, which varies dramatically based on numerous factors. Nationally, the total cost generally ranges from $5,000 to $12,000, though complex cases or high-cost metropolitan areas can exceed this estimate. This comprehensive total includes the surgeon’s fee, facility costs, and anesthesia.
The Major Cost Components
The total price is a combination of at least four distinct charges, with the surgeon’s professional fee usually representing the largest portion. The national average for this fee is often reported to be between $4,294 and $4,875, covering the practitioner’s expertise, consultation time, planning, and the operation itself.
The cost of the breast implants is another major component, varying based on the shell material and filler. Saline-filled implants are the most affordable option, typically costing the surgeon between $1,000 and $1,500 per pair. Silicone gel implants, often preferred for their natural feel, are more expensive, usually ranging from $1,600 to $2,400 for a pair.
A facility fee is charged for the use of the operating room, covering the sterile environment, specialized equipment, and supporting surgical staff. This fee varies widely depending on the location; accredited ambulatory surgery centers often cost less than a hospital operating room. Typical facility fees range from $1,200 to $2,200, but can be higher in large hospital settings.
The final major component is the anesthesia fee, covering the services of the anesthesiologist or Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) and necessary supplies. Anesthesia fees usually range from $600 to $1,500, varying based on the procedure’s length and the professional’s credentials. Patients should confirm that a board-certified anesthesia provider is involved for safety.
Key Factors Influencing the Final Price
The wide national cost range is driven by specific factors that change the price of the four major components. Geographic location is a powerful variable; procedures in major metropolitan areas like New York City or Los Angeles often cost substantially more than those in smaller markets. This variation reflects the higher cost of living, increased overhead for medical facilities, and greater demand for cosmetic services.
The surgeon’s experience and reputation directly influence their fee. Highly specialized, board-certified plastic surgeons with years of experience command a premium for their proven track record. A surgeon who is an author of research or a leader in professional societies will charge a fee at the higher end of the national average.
The specific type of implant chosen is a clear driver of cost. The newer, highly cohesive silicone gel implants, often called “gummy bear” implants, are the most expensive option because they are designed to maintain their shape better. While implant size does not typically affect the cost, the material and shape technology do.
The complexity of the surgical plan also changes the final price significantly. A primary, straightforward augmentation costs less than a revision surgery, which involves removing or replacing existing implants and addressing scar tissue. Combining the augmentation with a separate procedure, such as a breast lift (mastopexy), creates a longer, more complex operation that increases the surgeon’s, facility, and anesthesia fees.
Ancillary and Post-Procedure Expenses
Patients must budget for several ancillary expenses not included in the initial quote, beyond the core surgical fees. Pre-operative appointments and required medical testing ensure the patient is fit for surgery. These tests can include blood work and a pregnancy test. For a healthy patient, lab tests may cost around $75, but they can climb into the hundreds of dollars if more extensive testing is required.
Post-operative recovery requires specific supplies and medications to manage pain and prevent infection. Prescriptions for pain medication and antibiotics typically add an expense of $50 to $100. Patients also need specialized compression garments or surgical bras to support the breasts and reduce swelling during healing. These specialized garments cost between $60 and $150 each, and patients often require more than one.
Follow-Up Visits
Follow-up visits are mandatory for the surgeon to monitor the healing process and check for complications. Many surgeons include the cost of immediate post-operative visits in their initial fee, but patients should confirm this, as subsequent visits for longer-term monitoring may be billed separately.
Long-Term Screening Costs
For patients with silicone implants, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends routine screening to check for silent ruptures. This screening is often an MRI, with the first scan recommended five to six years after implantation and then repeated every two to three years. The cost of each screening MRI is significant, often around $2,000, representing a substantial long-term expense.
Insurance Coverage and Payment Methods
Breast augmentation performed solely for cosmetic reasons is considered an elective procedure and is almost universally excluded from coverage by health insurance plans. The only common exception is when the surgery is performed for breast reconstruction following a mastectomy or for specific congenital breast deformities. For cosmetic augmentation, the patient is responsible for the entire cost, which must be paid out-of-pocket.
To manage the significant expense, many plastic surgery practices offer various payment and financing options. Specialized medical credit lines, such as CareCredit, are popular choices that offer deferred-interest or low-interest payment plans over a set period. These plans allow the patient to finance the procedure and pay it off in monthly installments.
Patients may also use personal bank loans or credit cards, which offer flexibility but often carry higher interest rates than dedicated medical financing. Some clinics provide in-house payment plans, though these usually require a substantial upfront deposit before the surgery can be scheduled. Regardless of the financing method, patients should secure their funding before the procedure and ensure they understand the long-term financial commitment.