Breast Augmentation Cost Calculator

Estimate the total cost of breast augmentation including implant type, surgeon fees, anesthesia, and facility charges. Factor in long-term replacement costs for a complete financial picture.

Total Cost Estimator

Calculate your all-in breast augmentation cost.

Implant Type

Implant Placement

Location

Surgeon Experience

Lifetime Implant Cost Calculator

Factor in replacement surgeries to understand the true lifetime cost of breast implants.

Initial Surgery Cost

Estimated Replacement Cost

Expected Implant Lifespan

Planning Horizon

Implant Type Cost Comparison

Compare the cost of saline, silicone, and gummy bear implants side by side.

Base Surgeon Fee

Anesthesia + Facility Fee

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Breast Augmentation Cost Ranges

Saline Implants (pair): $800 - $1,500 | Silicone Gel: $1,200 - $2,500

Gummy Bear: $1,500 - $3,000 | Structured Saline: $1,500 - $2,500

Surgeon Fee: $5,000 - $12,000 | Anesthesia: $1,000 - $2,000

Total Range: $8,000 - $18,000 (primary) | Replacement: $6,000 - $12,000

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does breast augmentation cost?

Breast augmentation costs $6,000 to $12,000 for the surgeon's fee alone. Total all-in cost including implants ($800-$3,000 per pair), anesthesia ($1,000-$2,000), facility fees ($1,500-$3,000), and post-op garments ranges from $8,000 to $18,000 depending on implant type, surgeon experience, and geographic location. The national average surgeon's fee is approximately $4,500 according to ASPS, but experienced board-certified surgeons in major metropolitan areas charge considerably more.

How long do breast implants last?

Modern breast implants are designed to last 10-20 years, but they are not considered lifetime devices. The FDA recommends MRI screening for silicone implant rupture every 5-6 years starting 5 years after surgery. Studies show that about 20% of implants need to be replaced or removed within 8-10 years due to complications such as capsular contracture, rupture, or changes in breast appearance. Most women will need at least one implant replacement in their lifetime.

What is the difference between silicone and saline implants?

Silicone gel implants feel more natural to the touch, are less likely to show visible rippling, and are the most popular choice (approximately 85% of augmentations). They cost $1,200-$2,500 per pair. Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water after insertion, allowing smaller incisions and adjustable volume. They cost $800-$1,500 per pair. Gummy bear implants are a premium form-stable silicone option costing $1,500-$3,000 per pair that maintain their shape even if the shell is compromised.

Does insurance cover breast augmentation?

Cosmetic breast augmentation is not covered by health insurance. However, breast reconstruction after mastectomy is mandated for coverage under the Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998. Some insurance plans may cover augmentation for significant congenital asymmetry (Poland syndrome) or tuberous breast deformity. Patients should check with their insurance provider for specific coverage determinations.

What are gummy bear implants?

Gummy bear implants, technically called form-stable or highly cohesive silicone gel implants, contain a thicker gel that maintains its shape even when cut in half (like a gummy bear candy). Brands include Allergan Natrelle 410, Mentor MemoryShape, and Sientra. They cost $1,500-$3,000 per pair and offer lower rupture rates, less rippling, and more predictable long-term shape. They require a slightly longer incision for insertion and are typically teardrop-shaped, though round gummy bear options are also available.

Understanding Breast Augmentation Costs

Breast augmentation is the most popular cosmetic surgical procedure in the United States, with approximately 300,000 procedures performed annually according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. The procedure involves placing implants to increase breast size, restore volume lost after weight loss or pregnancy, or improve breast symmetry. Understanding the full financial picture, including upfront costs and long-term maintenance, is essential for anyone considering this procedure.

Cost Components Explained

The surgeon's fee is the largest single expense, ranging from $5,000 to $12,000 depending on experience, reputation, and location. This fee covers the surgical planning, procedure itself, and standard follow-up care. Implant costs vary significantly by type: saline implants cost $800-$1,500 per pair, standard silicone gel implants cost $1,200-$2,500, and premium gummy bear implants cost $1,500-$3,000. Anesthesia fees add $1,000-$2,000 for the 1-2 hour procedure under general anesthesia. Facility or operating room fees range from $1,500-$3,000.

Additional costs include pre-operative lab work and mammogram ($200-$500), compression bras and surgical garments ($50-$200), prescription medications ($50-$150), and post-operative care visits. Some practices bundle all costs into a single all-inclusive price, while others itemize each component separately. Always confirm what is included in any quoted price to avoid surprises.

Implant Types and Their Impact on Cost

The choice of implant type significantly affects both the upfront cost and long-term maintenance expenses. Saline implants are the most affordable option and have been available since the 1960s. They are filled with sterile salt water after insertion, allowing for smaller incisions and volume adjustments during surgery. However, they feel less natural than silicone and are more prone to visible rippling, especially in thin patients with little natural breast tissue.

Silicone gel implants, which account for approximately 85% of breast augmentations today, offer a more natural feel and appearance. They come pre-filled, requiring slightly larger incisions, and are available in both round and anatomical shapes. Premium silicone brands like Allergan Natrelle and Mentor offer various profiles (low, moderate, and high) to customize the final result.

Gummy bear implants represent the latest advancement in implant technology. Their form-stable cohesive gel maintains its shape even if the outer shell is compromised, reducing the risk of gel migration. They typically come with longer manufacturer warranties and have shown lower complication rates in clinical studies. While they cost more upfront, their durability may result in fewer replacement surgeries over time.

Geographic Price Variations

Location plays a significant role in breast augmentation pricing. In Beverly Hills and Manhattan, where celebrity surgeons command premium fees, total costs can reach $15,000-$20,000 or more. Miami, another hub for cosmetic surgery, sees prices from $8,000-$15,000. Mid-tier cities like Dallas, Atlanta, Denver, and Scottsdale offer competitive pricing from $7,000-$12,000. Smaller cities and rural areas may offer prices as low as $6,000-$9,000 total, though the pool of highly experienced surgeons may be smaller.

The Hidden Cost: Implant Replacement

One of the most overlooked financial considerations is the eventual need for implant replacement. Breast implants are not lifetime devices, and most women will need at least one replacement surgery. Replacement surgery typically costs 60-80% of the original procedure ($6,000-$12,000) because the surgeon must remove the old implants, address any capsular contracture, and place new implants. Over a 30-year period, a woman may need 1-2 replacement surgeries, potentially doubling or tripling the initial investment. Some implant manufacturers offer limited warranties that cover the cost of replacement implants (but not surgical fees) in case of rupture or deflation.

Financing Your Breast Augmentation

With costs ranging from $8,000 to $18,000, many patients explore financing options. CareCredit offers 0% promotional APR periods of 6-24 months for qualifying applicants, making it the most popular medical financing option. Prosper Healthcare Lending and Alphaeon Credit are other medical-specific options. Personal loans from banks and credit unions may offer competitive rates (6-15% APR) for borrowers with good credit. Many surgical practices offer in-house payment plans, sometimes with 0% interest for shorter terms. When evaluating financing, consider the total cost including interest rather than just the monthly payment.