Breast Implants - How Much Do They Cost?

Breast augmentation doesn't have to be expensive. Breast implants usually cost anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on a number of factors. The average cost is about $4,000. You can expect to pay more for implants in major metropolitan areas, especially New York and Los Angeles.

The least expensive place to get your surgery is in the southern states. When you're asking about the price, be sure to ask if it includes one implant or both. This might seem obvious, but this simple mistake could mean seeing the cost double when you get your bill! It's important to make sure you've got all the details covered.

Some Things That Affect Price

$2-10,000 is a big range. So, what factors affect the price?

First off, the type of implant makes a difference. Silicone implants cost more than saline. You can expect to pay about $1,000 more per implant, although this varies quite a bit depending on location. Another major factor is what the price covers. Implants themselves usually cost around $1,000 a piece.

Anesthesia is usually $500 to $800, and hospital fees usually run about $1,000. Medications to help you in your recovery will also add to the cost. Make sure your quote covers everything, so there won't be any surprises. A reputable clinic will give you all the detailed information you need up front.

A few years after you get your implants, you'll want to have a follow-up. This will include an MRI, which usually costs somewhere around $2,000. Don't think of this as an optional cost! The purpose of the follow-up visit is to make sure the implants are not ruptured. This is an important safety measure, so don't try to cut costs by not doing it!

Breast Implants and Insurance

Many folks find it hard to get funding for their implants. Health insurance almost never pays for breast augmentation. In cases where the operation is for breast reconstruction following a mastectomy, coverage is sometimes available.

Even when there is coverage for breast augmentation, it usually doesn't cover health problems that might occur as a result of the surgery, follow-up appointments or MRI's. Be sure you know exactly what is and isn't covered in your health plan.

In face, some health plans will raise your premiums if you have had breast work done. They view it as a risk, even though breast implants are safer than ever these days. Your health company may be one of these, so be sure you read the fine print and know where they stand.

How Much Should You Pay?

You can't really put a price on quality breast augmentation work. If a doctor says they will do the job at a ridiculously low price, it might be a good idea to look elsewhere. It's not worth the risk going with a clinic that may not be safe or trustworthy in order to save money.

A breast job done badly will end up costing you more because you'll have to have corrective surgery, or have the bad implants removed. When shopping for a clinic, don't worry as much about the cost as about the quality they offer.

By A Aaronson