The first question many people ask about breast augmentation is how much breast implants cost. There is no single answer or way to know what the cost will be for a particular person. However, there are lots of estimates available with some approximations putting the cost between $6000 and $12,000. The reason there is such a broad range is that there are many factors that can affect that price. Learning what these factors are can help patients plan and prepare for this life-changing and confidence enhancing procedure.
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The type of implant selected is one of the biggest determinants of the real cost of a breast augmentation. The two main types of breast implants ate saline and silicone implants. Silicone implants are a lot more expensive because they are costlier to manufacture and distribute. Saline implants, which are composed of sterile saline water, are cheaper to produce, and this makes them cheaper for the person getting the breast augmentation.
Location
Where you choose to have the procedure done also has a big impact on the final cost of the procedure. Typically, plastic surgeons operate out of big cities and metropolitan areas. In these areas, the cost of living is much higher, and so the procedure is costlier too. There is also a higher demand for breast augmentation services in these areas, which drives the price up.
For example, a similar procedure might be costlier in Houston than in Chicago, while the same one in Atlanta might be cheaper than the one done in Chicago. If there is a large enough cost difference, it might be a good idea to travel to a different state or city for the procedure.
The Plastic Surgeon
The facility as well as the surgeon you choose will also determine what you pay. If the surgeon has a lot of experience, has impressive credentials, and specialized training, the surgery will cost more. Although a higher price does not mean a surgeon is highly experienced, it is common and expected to see highly experienced surgeons charging more.
It is also important to remember to only contact board-certified plastic surgeons. Ideally, the surgeon’s style and methods should match what you are looking for. Since breast augmentation is a life-altering procedure, it is important to choose a surgeon who has extensive experience and training, and whose services you can afford.
Managing the Cost of Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is not usually covered by insurance, but reputable surgeons usually offer several options to make the procedure accessible and affordable.
Because of its popularity, there are several options to help you finance the procedure. Plastic surgeons usually have a payment plan in place to help you spread out the payments over a longer period.
If you have decent credit, you can also get a secured or unsecured loan from a lender. The terms of these loans match that of other types of loans, although their repayment timetables are usually fixed.
Breast augmentation can be a wonderful experience that helps boost your self-confidence and make you happier. If you do not know what the procedure will cost, you can always get in touch with a board-certified plastic surgeon so they can advise you on how to finance the procedure. You can then look forward to feeling and looking your best.