Breast augmentation, often called a “boob job,” is a surgical procedure that enhances the size and shape of the breasts, typically using silicone or saline implants. This elective cosmetic procedure represents a significant financial investment, and the total cost varies widely based on numerous factors. Expenses are notably higher in major metropolitan areas like Los Angeles (LA) compared to the national average due to increased overhead and demand. Understanding the final price requires looking beyond the surgeon’s fee to include supporting medical charges and the specific materials chosen. This breakdown provides a clear expectation of the expenses associated with the procedure in the Los Angeles area.
The Typical Cost Range for Breast Augmentation in Los Angeles
The total price for breast augmentation in Los Angeles is not a fixed number, but a substantial range reflecting the region’s premium market. Patients should prepare for a total cost between $6,000 and $20,000. A more common range for a standard procedure performed by a board-certified surgeon is typically $10,000 to $13,000. This wide spectrum is due to the concentration of sought-after surgeons and the high operating costs in the Los Angeles area.
The price generally exceeds the national average due to the high cost of living and the competitive cosmetic surgery market. This comprehensive figure covers the surgeon’s fee, implant costs, anesthesia, and facility charges. A personalized quote is the only way to determine the exact expenditure.
Primary Variables That Affect the Total Price
The largest variable component of the final price is the surgeon’s professional fee, tied directly to their qualifications and market standing. A board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience and high-profile recognition will command a higher fee than a less established practitioner. Surgeons practicing in desirable areas like Beverly Hills or Santa Monica also tend to have higher professional fees due to the geographic premium. This fee reflects the expertise and technical skill required to achieve optimal aesthetic results.
The second major financial differentiator is the choice of implant material, as the device cost is factored into the overall price. Saline implants, filled with sterile salt water after insertion, are generally the least expensive option. Standard silicone implants contain a cohesive gel that many patients prefer for its more natural feel and appearance, but they carry a higher price tag. The most advanced option, such as highly cohesive form-stable gel implants (often called “gummy bear” implants), increases the cost further due to specialized material.
Saline implants may cost around $1,600 per pair, while standard silicone implants often cost $2,000 or more per pair. The implant choice also influences the surgical technique, as silicone implants require a slightly longer incision for insertion compared to saline. The patient’s desired outcome and the surgeon’s preference determine the appropriate implant type, affecting the material cost component of the total bill.
Understanding the Mandatory Supporting Fees
Several mandatory supporting fees must be paid to ensure the procedure is performed safely and successfully, in addition to the surgeon’s fee and implant cost.
Anesthesia Fee
This fee is paid to the medical professional who administers the anesthetic and monitors the patient’s vital signs throughout the surgery. The cost varies depending on whether the provider is a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) or a physician anesthesiologist (MD), and the total length of the operation.
Facility Fee
This charge covers the cost of using the surgical suite, including nursing staff, equipment, and medical supplies. Choosing an accredited surgical center, which is the safest option, typically results in a higher facility fee. In Los Angeles, the combined cost for both the anesthesia and facility fees often ranges between $2,000 and $3,000, paid separately from the surgeon’s professional charge.
Pre- and Post-Operative Costs
Remaining mandatory costs are incurred for essential care items not bundled into the main fees. These expenses include pre-operative lab work or medical clearances required to confirm patient health before the procedure. Following surgery, patients must also purchase prescribed medications and specialized compression garments, such as surgical bras, necessary for proper healing and supporting the final aesthetic result.
Payment and Financing Options
Breast augmentation procedures are performed solely for cosmetic enhancement, meaning the procedure is elective and almost universally not covered by health insurance. Patients must plan to pay the full cost out-of-pocket. Insurance coverage is generally reserved only for medically necessary cases, such as reconstruction following a mastectomy or correction of certain congenital deformities.
To make the procedure more accessible, many Los Angeles practices partner with specialized medical financing companies. These companies offer dedicated medical credit cards or personal loans designed to cover elective procedures. These plans often feature deferred interest or low monthly payment structures, allowing patients to undergo surgery immediately and pay the balance over time.