Breast augmentation, commonly known as getting “fake breasts,” is a popular cosmetic surgery. Women choose this procedure for various reasons, like enhancing their body confidence, correcting breast asymmetry, or restoring volume after pregnancy or weight loss. One of the most pressing questions for those considering this surgery is, “How much is it to get fake breast?” In this article, we’ll break down the elements that determine the cost of breast augmentation, giving you a clear understanding of what to expect.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Breast Augmentation
1. Type of Implant
Saline Implants
Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater. They are often more budget – friendly compared to other types. The manufacturing process of saline implants is relatively straightforward, which contributes to their lower cost. The price of saline implants can range from around $1,000 to $3,000 per implant. However, the overall cost of the surgery with saline implants also depends on other factors like the surgeon’s fee and facility charges.
One advantage of saline implants is that they can be filled during the surgery, allowing for some customization of the size. But they may have a less natural feel compared to silicone implants, especially if the implant is under – filled or if the patient has very little natural breast tissue.
Silicone Implants
Silicone implants are filled with a silicone gel that mimics the feel of natural breast tissue more closely. They are more expensive, typically costing between $3,000 and $5,000 per implant. The higher cost is due to the more complex manufacturing process and the research and development that have gone into creating a gel that closely replicates the texture of real breasts.
Silicone implants come in different forms, such as cohesive gel implants, which are also known as “gummy bear” implants. These are designed to maintain their shape better and are often more expensive because of their advanced technology.
Alternative Implant Types
There are also other types of implants, like soy – based or bio – compatible implants. These are less common but may be chosen by patients with specific concerns, such as allergies or a preference for more natural – based materials. The cost of these alternative implants can vary widely, but they are generally on the higher end of the price spectrum due to their limited availability and specialized manufacturing.
2. Surgeon’s Expertise and Reputation
Board – Certified Plastic Surgeons
Board – certified plastic surgeons have completed extensive training in plastic and reconstructive surgery. They must pass rigorous exams to earn their board certification. These surgeons typically charge more for their services. Their expertise ensures a higher level of safety during the surgery and better long – term results. For example, a board – certified plastic surgeon with years of experience in breast augmentation will be more skilled at creating a natural – looking outcome, reducing the risk of complications like implant malposition or rippling.
The fees of board – certified plastic surgeons can range from $5,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on their location and the complexity of the procedure. Their reputation in the field also plays a role. Well – known and highly – regarded surgeons may have a waiting list of patients, and their fees reflect their standing in the industry.
Fellowship – Trained Surgeons
Some plastic surgeons pursue additional fellowship training in a specific area, such as aesthetic breast surgery. Fellowship – trained surgeons have in – depth knowledge and specialized skills in breast augmentation. They can handle more complex cases, like re – augmentation after a previous failed procedure or breast reconstruction with implants.
Due to their advanced training, fellowship – trained surgeons usually charge a premium. Their fees can be significantly higher than those of general plastic surgeons, sometimes adding an extra $2,000 to $5,000 to the overall cost of the surgery.
4. Geographic Location
Urban vs. Rural Areas
The cost of breast augmentation can vary greatly depending on whether you have the procedure done in an urban or rural area. In large cities, the cost of living is generally higher, which impacts the cost of running a medical practice. Rent for office space, staff salaries, and the cost of medical equipment are all more expensive in urban areas. As a result, plastic surgeons in cities like New York, Los Angeles, or London may charge more for breast augmentation compared to those in smaller towns or rural areas.
For example, in a major city, the total cost of breast augmentation could be $10,000 – $20,000, while in a rural area, it might range from $6,000 – $12,000. The higher cost in urban areas is also due to the higher demand for cosmetic procedures and the presence of more high – end surgical facilities.
Regional Differences
Even within a country, there can be regional differences in the cost of breast augmentation. In some regions with a high concentration of plastic surgeons, competition may drive prices down. However, in areas with limited access to plastic surgery services, the cost may be higher due to the lack of competition. Additionally, in regions where the local economy is more prosperous, patients may be more willing to pay higher prices for cosmetic procedures, which can influence the pricing set by surgeons.
5. Facility Fees
Outpatient Surgery Centers
Many breast augmentation procedures are performed in outpatient surgery centers. These centers are equipped to handle surgical procedures without the need for an overnight stay. The cost of using an outpatient surgery center includes the use of the operating room, surgical equipment, and the services of the support staff, such as nurses and anesthesiologists.
The fees for outpatient surgery centers can range from $2,000 to $5,000, depending on the quality and location of the center. A state – of – the – art outpatient surgery center in a prime location may charge more for its services compared to a smaller, more basic facility.
Hospitals
In some cases, breast augmentation may be performed in a hospital setting. This is usually the case when the patient has underlying health conditions that require closer monitoring during the surgery or when the procedure is more complex, such as a combined breast lift and augmentation. Hospital fees for breast augmentation are generally higher than those of outpatient surgery centers.
Hospitals have higher overhead costs, including maintaining a full – service operating room, providing post – operative care, and having a wider range of medical resources available. The cost of using a hospital’s facilities can add $3,000 – $8,000 to the overall cost of the breast augmentation procedure.
6. Anesthesia Costs
Local Anesthesia with Sedation
For some less invasive breast augmentation procedures, local anesthesia with sedation may be used. This involves numbing the breast area and using sedatives to keep the patient relaxed. The cost of local anesthesia with sedation is relatively lower compared to general anesthesia. It typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,000.
The anesthesiologist’s fees for administering local anesthesia with sedation are also lower as the procedure requires less monitoring compared to general anesthesia. However, this option may not be suitable for all patients or all types of breast augmentation procedures.
General Anesthesia
When the breast augmentation is more extensive or when the patient prefers to be unconscious during the surgery, general anesthesia is used. General anesthesia requires the patient to be put into a deep sleep, and the anesthesiologist must closely monitor the patient’s vital signs throughout the procedure.
The cost of general anesthesia is higher, usually ranging from $3,000 to $5,000. The higher cost is due to the more complex nature of the anesthesia administration, the need for specialized equipment, and the longer – term monitoring required.
7. Pre – and Post – operative Care
Pre – operative Consultations and Tests
Before breast augmentation, patients need to have pre – operative consultations with the plastic surgeon. During these consultations, the surgeon will assess the patient’s medical history, perform a physical examination, and discuss the patient’s goals and expectations for the surgery. These consultations are not free, and the cost can vary depending on the number of consultations required and the length of each session.
Additionally, patients may need to undergo certain pre – operative tests, such as blood tests, electrocardiograms (ECGs), or imaging studies (like mammograms) to ensure they are in good health for the surgery. The cost of these tests can add up to $500 – $1,500 to the overall cost of the breast augmentation.
Post – operative Medications and Follow – up Visits
After the breast augmentation, patients will need to take medications to manage pain, prevent infection, and aid in the healing process. The cost of these medications, such as antibiotics, painkillers, and anti – inflammatory drugs, can vary depending on the type and duration of the prescription.
Patients also need to have follow – up visits with the surgeon to monitor their healing progress. The cost of these follow – up visits, which may occur several times in the weeks and months after the surgery, can range from $500 – $2,000 depending on the number of visits and the complexity of the after – care required.
Cost Range for Breast Augmentation
The overall cost of breast augmentation can vary widely. On the lower end, a simple breast augmentation with saline implants, using local anesthesia in an outpatient surgery center, and performed by a general plastic surgeon, may cost around $8,000. However, at the higher end, a complex breast augmentation with silicone “gummy bear” implants, general anesthesia in a hospital setting, and performed by a fellowship – trained breast surgeon, can cost upwards of $20,000 or more.
Hidden Costs to Be Aware Of
Revision Surgery
In some cases, a patient may not be satisfied with the initial results of the breast augmentation or may experience complications that require a revision surgery. Revision surgery is more complex and often more expensive than the original procedure. The surgeon may need to correct implant placement, address issues like capsular contracture (hardening of the tissue around the implant), or adjust the size or shape of the implants. The cost of revision surgery can be significantly higher, sometimes doubling or even tripling the cost of the original surgery, depending on the complexity of the problem.
Unexpected Complications
Although rare, unexpected complications can occur during or after breast augmentation. Complications such as infection, bleeding, implant rupture, or nerve damage may require additional medical treatment. This could include hospital stays, additional medications, or even further surgical procedures to correct the problem. These unforeseen costs can quickly add up and should be considered when budgeting for breast augmentation.
How to Save Money on Breast Augmentation
Research and Compare Surgeons
Take the time to research different plastic surgeons in your area. Look at their qualifications, experience, patient reviews, and before – and – after photos. By comparing multiple surgeons, you may be able to find one who offers high – quality services at a more reasonable price. However, don’t sacrifice quality for cost. Make sure the surgeon is qualified and has a good reputation to ensure a safe and successful procedure.
Ask About Package Deals
Some plastic surgery practices may offer package deals for breast augmentation. These packages may include the surgical fee, implant cost, facility fees, anesthesia costs, and a certain number of post – operative follow – up visits. By opting for a package deal, you may be able to save some money compared to paying for each service separately.
Consider Financing Options
Many plastic surgery practices offer financing options to help patients afford their procedures. This can include payment plans with low – interest rates or no – interest periods. Before agreeing to any financing option, make sure you understand the terms and conditions, including the interest rate, repayment schedule, and any potential fees.
Conclusion
The cost of getting fake breasts through breast augmentation is determined by multiple factors. While cost is an important consideration, it should not be the only factor when making a decision. Your health and the quality of the results should be your top priorities. By understanding the elements that contribute to the cost, you can make an informed decision and budget appropriately for your breast augmentation procedure. If you have any specific questions about the cost or the procedure itself, it’s best to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon who can provide you with personalized information.
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