If you are considering cosmetic breast augmentation, one of your biggest concerns will likely be the cost of the procedure. This surgery is not covered by insurance providers, so the entire expense will be paid out of your own pocket. For this reason, it is important to understand the factors that affect the cost of breast implants so that you can prepare properly for the expense of your procedure.
COSTS ASSOCIATED WITH BREAST AUGMENTATION
Breast implants are just one of the costs associated with the breast augmentation procedure. Other expenses might include fees for:
- Surgeon
- Anesthesiologist
- Facility
- Post-Operative Garments
- Medical Testing
- Prescription Medications
When you discuss cost with your plastic surgeon, make sure all of these expenses are taken into account in the price you are quoted. Otherwise, you may be in for a surprise after your procedure when you receive additional bills for some of these items that you were not expecting.
FACTORS THAT AFFECT THE COST OF YOUR PROCEDURE
The cost of breast augmentation varies based on a number of different factors:
- The geographical location of the surgeon
- The experience of the surgeon
- The venue where the surgery will be performed
- The type of implants used
Geography does indeed play a role in the cost of any plastic surgery procedure. For example, physicians located on either coast tend to have higher fees than surgeons located in other areas of the country. In addition, physicians in large cities often charge more than physicians located in more rural areas.
The place where the surgery will be performed can also impact cost. Hospitals tend to charge more for use of their facility than an outpatient surgical center will. Many plastic surgeon’s also offer their own private surgical suite, which will likely be incorporated into the entire cost of the procedure.
More experienced surgeons also tend to charge more for their services. However, this is not an area where you want to try to save your cash. Experience generally also means a safer procedure and better results, which adds significant value to your breast implant investment overall.
SALINE VS. SILICONE IMPLANT COST
The type of implant you choose will also affect how much you spend on your breast augmentation procedure. As a general rule, saline implants cost less than silicone. The most expensive implants today are the cohesive gel implants, known as “gummy bear” implants. These tend to come with an even higher price tag than standard silicone implants.
While your choice of implant can save you a bit of money on your breast augmentation procedure, keep in mind that you are likely to have these implants for many years – maybe even a lifetime. Saving a bit now may not provide you the best value overall if you do not end up with the implants that work best for your specific procedure. Your plastic surgeon will be able to help you make the best implant choice for you.
MAKING SURGERY AFFORDABLE
Since cosmetic breast augmentation is not covered by insurance, plastic surgeons offering this service will usually provide payment options to make the surgery more affordable. In addition to taking a variety of payment types, many provide financing options to their patients. Be sure to ask about all the payment options available at your initial consultation.
