Breast Lift and Augmentation Costs: Making an Informed Decision

A breast lift, also known as mastopexy or a boob job, focuses on eliminating ptosis or drooping and repositioning the nipple areolar complex for a more youthful look. This procedure does not address the size or fullness of the breasts, whereas breast augmentation involves adding implants or fat transfer to increase the size and achieve the desired shape.

A breast lift and augmentation cost ranges from $2,000 to $12,000. We’ll look into what affects the overall cost of these procedures and explain other potential expenses and ways to finance them. Knowing the approximate costs can help you decide your desired surgery outcome.

Key Takeaways of Breast Lift And Augmentation Costs

• The national average cost of a breast lift is estimated to be around $5,012, but this may not include all additional costs like anesthesiologist and facility fees.
• The price of a breast augmentation can vary significantly depending on the location and your chosen surgeon’s experience level. It can range from around $2,000 to $12,000 across different states and doctors.
• Combining a breast lift with breast augmentation surgery or other procedures can present additional delays in healing time, which should always be considered before making any decisions about the procedure.
• Most doctor’s offices will likely offer financing plans for those who need assistance covering their treatment expenses due to their expensive nature, which should also take into account personal factors such as privacy choices when exploring potential payment options.

What is a Breast Lift?

A breast lift, sometimes called a mastopexy, is a surgical procedure that lifts and reshapes the breasts. The procedure reduces the sagging breasts and lifts the position of both nipples on the breast.

It also improves definition and symmetry by lifting darker areas around each nipple. A breast lift makes the breasts firmer, shapelier, and often smaller for women with saggy or droopy breasts due to causes such as pregnancy or major weight loss.

What is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation is a cosmetic surgery procedure that involves placing an implant beneath the breast tissue or chest muscles. This allows the doctor to increase the cup size of your breasts, adjusting it until you have achieved the desired symmetrical results.

Breast implants come in two varieties, saline and silicone. Saline implants contain an artificial saltwater solution, while silicone has a more gel-like consistency and a natural feel similar to real breast tissue.

Differences Between Breast Lift and Augmentation

Breast augmentation will not correct lax skin that may cause drooping but can help restore upper pole volume if needed. To get maximum results in creating fuller, shapelier breasts with improved positioning often necessitates combining both procedures, such as mastopexy and implant insertion, depending on the individual’s needs and preferences.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Breast Lift and Augmentation

Several factors can affect the overall cost of a breast lift and augmentation procedure, including surgeon’s fees, anesthesia fees, facility fees, type of implants used, whether it’s saline or silicone, and additional procedures if combined with other surgeries.

Surgeon’s Fees

The cost of a breast lift and augmentation procedure largely depends on the experience of your plastic surgeon. Highly experienced surgeons may charge more than those who have just started to practice since they can bring greater precision with their skill and expertise.

Their knowledge of using different techniques can help minimize complications that could arise during or after the cosmetic surgery process.

Anesthesia Fees

Anesthesia is a crucial component of any surgery, especially those related to cosmetic enhancement. The type of anesthesia used will depend on the procedure being performed and the time duration involved.

Local anesthesia numbs one specific area, while general anesthesia puts someone into a sleep-like state while undergoing surgery. An anesthesiologist administers the necessary medications or gasses for whatever kind of general anesthesia is needed.

Depending on the complexity and length of surgery, these fees can range anywhere from $500 to $2,000 or more.

Facility Fees

Facility fees are associated with surgeon fees and surgical facilities, which provide services such as operating room time, handling of equipment and supplies purchase, personnel training, and support.

These services can all add to the overall cost of a breast lift or augmentation procedure since they are one of the factors that determine pricing. Facility fees can be significantly higher depending on whether the surgery is performed in an ambulatory surgery center or a hospital setting, such as overnight stays.

Type of Implants Saline or Silicone

Regarding breast augmentation surgery, the type of implant you choose greatly determines the overall cost. Saline implants are typically filled with a saltwater solution and are less expensive than silicone implants; they feel more like natural breasts.

Smooth silicone implants are much less expensive than textured options because of the additional cost associated with manufacturing and distributing medical grade silicone materials.

Average Cost of a Breast Lift

According to statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average breast lift cost was estimated to be $5,012.

This figure may not reflect all costs associated with breast lift surgery or the additional hidden fees some surgeons or facilities charge. According to RealSelf Cost Estimator Tool, there is a large price range for breast lifts, which varies from $2,000 to 12,000 across different states and cosmetic surgeons.

Average Cost of Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation surgery costs from $4,500 to $5,000 in 2021. This does not include preoperative consultations or follow up visits to your doctor. Factors that can affect the total cost of breast augmentation include fees related to anesthesia services and facility fees including hospital stay time. Implant type, saline vs silicone, and additional procedures that may be done concurrently with a breast augmentation such as liposuction or tummy tuck surgeries, can add extra cost beyond just breast lift cost and the implants itself.

Remember that financing options are available. Speak with your plastic surgeon about the payment plans they offer or through third party lenders like CareCredit and Prosper Healthcare Lending, so you don’t have to worry about having financial constraints when considering getting this kind of consultation or procedure for yourself.

Combined Breast Lift and Augmentation Cost

Patients can opt for a combination of a breast lift with implants and augmentation if desired, resulting in an increased cost due to combining two procedures.

Does Adding Breast Augmentation Increase the Cost of a Breast Lift?

Breast augmentation surgery costs more than a breast lift procedure alone. So yes, having both procedures will increase the total price.

The average cost of a breast augmentation is around $4,516, while the figure for a breast lift ranges from $3,000 to $7,500, depending on geographical location and surgeon experience.

Choosing saline implants instead of the silicone gel implants may reduce total expenditures for both procedures. It could also be beneficial in terms of affordability to opt for combined surgery; having both procedures completed at once rather than separately since there would likely be savings on anesthesia fees which are paid irrespective of whether individual or multiple operations are performed in one go.

Cost Differences Between Saline and Silicone Implants

The cost of a breast augmentation procedure can vary greatly depending on many factors, including the type of implant used. Saline implants are generally more affordable than silicone implants in terms of upfront cost.

The average total price for a saline implant procedure is usually around $3,000 to $7,000. Silicone implants typically come with an additional charge from their manufacturers ranging from about $1,000 to as much as $2,500 per pair.

Silicone augmentations tend to be more expensive overall and have an average cost range between roughly $4,500 and up for this kind of plastic surgery procedure.

Implant size contributes a lot too. Larger or more complex procedures also increase the expenses associated with them significantly due to extended operating time and higher costs for anesthesia services among others.

Is It More Affordable to Have Both Procedures Done At the Same Time?

Combining breast lift and augmentation can make the entire procedure more cost effective overall. This is because when both procedures are performed at once, there is a lower total surgeon fee as well as fewer costs associated with anesthesia, surgical facility, and additional implants such as saline or silicone.

Patients who opt in for both surgeries together may benefit from faster recovery time since they are only looking at one period of recovery instead of two separate ones.

Other Costs to Consider

Patients should also consider the associated costs for preoperative consultations, postoperative care, follow up visits, medication, and surgical garments.

Preoperative Consultations and Tests

The consulting surgeon and team will perform a series of tests to assess the patient’s overall health and suitability for breast augmentation or breast lift, determine the type of procedure necessary, explain available options and analyze the potential risks or complications.

Pre operative consultation usually includes reviewing patient medical history, physical examination if needed and lab work such as blood tests. While preoperative examinations might seem pricey at first glance, they greatly promote both safety and efficacy during surgery by having accurate information upfront.

These tests may identify any existing conditions needing further treatment before undergoing this more elective surgery. Through preoperative consultations, prospective patients can ask questions on their desired goals to achieve more natural-looking results while avoiding unnecessary associated complications.

Post Operative Care and Follow up Visits

Postoperative care and regular follow up visits with a qualified plastic surgeon are essential for women considering breast lift or augmentation surgery. Through these visits, surgeons can monitor healing progress, detect any postoperative complications and address them immediately to ensure optimal results.

Cost of Medication and Surgical Garments

After undergoing a breast lift or breast augmentation procedure, patients may need medications such as antibiotics, painkillers or steroids for instance. Depending on the extent of their surgery, they may require various compression garments, bandages and possibly surgical bras to be worn in order to assist the aftercare healing process.

Insurance Coverage for Breast Lift and Augmentation

Understanding whether insurance companies will cover breast lift and augmentation procedures can help women make an informed decision when considering the financial aspects of these treatments.

Does Insurance Cover Breast Lift Surgery?

Most health insurance plans do not typically provide coverage for a breast lift surgery as it is usually deemed a cosmetic procedure. Insurance companies generally evaluate the medical necessity of procedures before granting coverage, and many times will consider only reduction surgeries to be eligible for reimbursement.

In cases where a patient experiences physical or psychological stress due to excess breast tissue weight, their insurance company might actually cover the cost of reducing that tissue.

Even in cases like these when satisfaction is guaranteed with outcomes, the majority of insurers still would not cover breast lifts since they view them primarily as aesthetic treatments rather than reconstructive ones.

Insurance Coverage for Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation is a cosmetic procedure and as such, it is typically not covered by health insurance. Insurance companies may only cover the cost of breast augmentation if surgery is being done in the context of reconstructive breast surgery due to a mastectomy for cancer or after injury, or if the procedure is otherwise deemed medically necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Lift and Augmentation Cost

1. How Much Does a Breast Lift and Augmentation Typically Cost?

The final cost of a breast lift and augmentation depends on factors such as the type of procedure being performed, where it is being done, and the surgeon’s experience level. The total costs can range from $5,000 to $15,000.

2. Are There Any Other Related Expenses I Should Consider?

Additional fees may include anesthesia fees and postoperative care products such as compression garments or creams needed for recovery. It is also important to factor in travel expenses if the procedure is taking place away from your home area or state.

3. Are Financing Options Available for This Type of Surgery?

Yes, many surgeons offer financing plans that allow patients to make payments over time rather than paying upfront for their surgery. Financing discussions can be done with your doctor during your initial consultation visit before deciding whether to proceed with the procedure.

4. What Risks Are Associated With Breast Lift and Augmentation Procedures?

Breast lift and augmentations involve both surgical lower percent risk as well as potential complications resulting from receiving implants such as infection, changes in shape or size, development of hardening scar tissue around implants, capsular contracture, loss of sensitivity in the nipples and more.

Conclusion and Summary of Breast Lift and Augmentation Costs: Making an Informed Decision

It is important to understand the cost of breast lift and augmentation procedures before opting for them so that you can decide which route to take.

When considering the cost of breast lift and augmentation procedures, it is essential to consider the desired outcome. A successful procedure can result in improved self image, body confidence, and physical comfort.

Health experts recommend understanding your individual goals before opting for surgery so that realistic expectations are set from the start. Ensuring you choose a qualified surgeon who will provide high-quality service should be part of assessing how much the procedure will cost overall.

For those seeking longer lasting results with satisfactory outcomes, investing in quality treatment may be deemed worth it as compared to settling with any nearby doctor or sources offering discount prices yet not guaranteeing results that meet personal requirements.

Please note that this article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Before making any changes to your treatments, please consult with your healthcare provider to discuss the appropriateness and safety of such changes.

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About the Author

Dr. Brandon Richland, MD is a respected Board Certified Licensed Plastic Surgeon in Orange County / Southern California specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries.

Driven by his passion for medicine, Dr. Richland obtained his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree from the prestigious program at Saint Louis University (SLU) School of Medicine in 2013. His exceptional skills were recognized when he received the McGraw Hill / Lange Medical Student Academic Achievement Award, and graduated top of his class with Honors. For his undergraduate degree, he attended University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and graduated with Honors in 2009.

To further enhance his surgical expertise, Dr. Richland completed his Residency in Plastic Surgery at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) from 2013 to 2019 earning the Academic Achievement Award twice during this period. A total of 14 years in dedicated schooling and medical residency.

Dr. Richland is actively involved with healthcare and medical societies, as a Diplomate of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, and the California Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Contact Dr. Richland today by visiting RichlandMD.com, scheduling a cosmetic consultation, or by calling 949-867-4496 directly.

Cover Image Credit: Spacemica / 123RF.com (Licensed). Photo Illustration by: Dr. Brandon Richland, MD.