Cost of Breast Augmentation

Breast Augmentation, Breast Implants, Plastic Surgery, Plastic Surgery Costs/Prices

During tough economic times many patients are concerned about their spending, especially for cosmetic procedures. Average breast augmentation costs have decreased slightly in this new economic climate, but it is important to read the fine print. Advertised pricing is not always your final cost.

The ASPS lists the average surgeon fee for breast enhancement in the United States as $3816, but that is not the total cost of the procedure.

Additional charges may include:

• The fee for the anesthesiologist - usually ranging between $500 and $800.
• The fee for breast implants - silicone implants are more expensive than saline implants.
• The operating room fees -  Charges vary depending on where the surgery takes place — in a doctor’s office, in a freestanding surgical center or in a hospital O.R.
• Post-surgical garments - Some procedures require special compressive garments to ease and speed healing.
• Medications, pain control like OnQ and other supplies - Your surgeon will give you prescriptions and a list for items you need for recovery.
• Recovery center charges - Some surgeons want their out-of-town patients to stay the first night after surgery in a special recovery center. One night can run from $300 to $800, depending on its location.

The best bet? Before scheduling your surgery, ask your surgeon to provide you with a quote for the total cost of surgery and a list of all garments, medications and other products needed for recovery after your breast augmentation procedure.

Most importantly, be sure that you are not sacrificing quality for price. Make sure you have surgery with a qualified plastic surgeon in a fully accredited facility. It is important to do your research prior to making your decision otherwise it may end up costing you more in the long run.

California Surgical Institute @ November 17, 2008