How Much Does a Breast Augmentation Cost with Insurance??

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) reports the average cost of a breast augmentation surgery as $4,516. However, the costs of breast augmentation can range from $3,600 to $9,000. There are a lot of factors that can contribute to the pricing of breast augmentation surgery, including the type of breast augmentation, the location of the surgery, and the cost of the consultation.   

How much do breast augmentations cost in the U.S?

The costs associated with breast augmentation surgery can vary drastically in the U.S. based on location. The following is a list of plastic surgery clinics with average breast augmentation prices for reference. These costs were obtained from each clinic's website and don’t include insurance. 

Cost of Breast Augmentation Based on Location

Breast Augmentation Additional Fees 

Aside from the actual surgery, there are numerous additional fees to consider for the overall cost of breast augmentation. 

These fees include: 

• Anesthesia: your anesthesiologist's prices are based on their certifications and experience.
• Hospital costs: costs associated with the clinic or facility where you are getting your procedure, including room and board.
• Medical tests: tests before and after to ensure your eligibility before the procedure and for monitoring your safety afterward.
• Post-surgery needs: costs associated with follow-up appointments after the operation.
• Surgery-related medications/prescriptions: pain medications and muscle relaxers can be prescribed to help ease your post-operative pain.
• Surgeon fee: your surgeon's prices are based on their certifications and experience.
• Consultation: fees associated with your initial consultation prior to the procedure.
• Type of breast implant: the type of implant you choose can significantly impact your overall costs.

What are the Types of Breast Augmentation?

There are three main types of breast augmentation surgery that you can choose between. 

1. Breast Augmentation with Implant: these procedures utilize synthetic implants that are typically either saline or silicone. This type of surgery tends to be the least costly.
2. Breast Augmentation with Fat Transfer: these procedures transfer the patient's fat via liposuction from another body area into the breast.
3. Hybrid Breast Augmentation: a hybrid augmentation consists of both implant and fat transfer procedures and allows the client to customize their surgery results. This tends to be the most expensive type of procedure.

Silicone Implants

Silicone implants consist entirely of silicone. These implants are silicone cases filled with silicone gel and are FDA approved for women aged 22 years and older who are receiving implants for cosmetic reasons. If a silicone implant ruptures, you might feel some pain and discomfort or notice a change in the shape or firmness of your implant. 

However, many individuals do not notice if their implants rupture in some cases. This is known as a silent rupture, where the silicone retains its shape even if the case has ruptured. Additionally, excess silicone has not demonstrated any adverse effects on your health. Your provider will most likely recommend surgical removal of the implant. 

Gummy Bear Implants

Gummy bear implants are silicone implants that utilize a thicker and more cohesive silicone gel. These implants tend to be more firm and maintain their shape even if the implant ruptures. On the other hand, when regular silicone implants rupture, they typically lose shape and firmness. It is important to note that these implants tend to be more expensive than the average silicone implant. 

Saline Implants

Saline implants consist of a silicone case filled with saline or sterile saltwater. These implants are FDA approved for women aged 18 years and older. If a saline implant ruptures, the saline inside the implant will leak out and get absorbed by your body. This will have no significant impact on your health and not lead to severe complications. However, the silicone case will have to be removed surgically. 

Many individuals prefer saline implants because they feel as though these implants look and feel more natural. On the other hand, unlike a saline implant, it will be obvious when a saline implant ruptures as your implant will slowly deflate. 

Breast Implant Price Comparison

Insurance Coverage of Breast Implants 

Breast augmentation surgeries can be a very costly procedure. Whether or not your insurance covers this surgery depends on your plan's guidelines and the reasons behind why you are opting to receive this procedure. Most insurance plans will not cover your costs if you choose to pursue a breast augmentation procedure for cosmetic reasons. If you undergo breast augmentation surgery for breast reconstruction reasons, your insurance will be more likely to cover the procedure. Breast reconstruction is a surgical option for individuals affected by breast cancer who underwent a mastectomy as part of their treatment. 

Medicare 

If you have Medicare coverage and undergo reconstructive breast surgery, 80% of your costs will most likely be covered by your plan. Reconstructive breast surgery is an option provided to individuals who have received a mastectomy for breast cancer treatment. If this situation applies to you, Medicare Part A will cover 80% of your procedure as long as the surgery occurs in an inpatient setting. For reference, the Medicare monthly premium in 2022 was $170.10. 

Breast Augmentation Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

The following section will go over some frequently asked questions about getting breast implants. You must keep these questions in mind before pursuing breast augmentation surgery. 

What are the side effects of breast augmentation?

Like all surgical procedures, a breast augmentation can contribute to several side effects and complications. It is essential to be aware of the possible complications post-operation to monitor and treat your condition. As mentioned previously, both saline and silicone implants risk rupturing. Although rupturing implants will not lead to any serious consequences, it might lead to pain or require an additional surgical procedure to remove the implant. Some possible complications are listed below: 

• Breast pain
• Breast atrophy
• Scarring or delayed wound healing
• Infection
• Inflammation/or rash
• Swelling

Most of the time, these side effects are treatable and easy to manage. However, serious complications are possible. It is important to see a board-certified surgeon and pay close attention to post-operative procedures to help minimize any possible side effects. 

How do I know if my provider is certified?

The best way to choose a board-certified and trustworthy provider is to ensure that they are members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). Members of the ASPS have to undergo rigorous training and schooling, which ensure that they are competent and can adequately perform your surgery. All ASPS members have been board certified via the American Board of Plastic Surgeons (ABPS). Another reputable organization is the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS). This organization's members are also all required to be board certified by the ABPS.

How long is the procedure? What can I expect? 

The length of a breast implant surgery can vary depending on your preferences. The surgery can be as short as 45 minutes to 1 hour but can be longer if complications arise. You can elect to stay overnight at the hospital or return home afterward. Depending on your insurance, your hospital stay could be covered. However, if there are any surgical complications or your health is compromised after the surgery, your hospital stay will be adjusted accordingly. 

How long do breast implants last? 

Breast implants can last anywhere from 10-20 years. Although the risk of rupture of silicone or saline implants does exist, it is relatively rare. It averages a 1% chance of rupture. However, your risk of rupture does increase with age. Many individuals opt for breast implant replacement surgery after either rupture or deflation. 

What is the recovery time?

It takes most individuals about 4-6 weeks to recover from breast augmentation surgery. This process might take longer for certain individuals who have complications after surgery. Generally speaking, most individuals should be set to resume work and daily activities after a month. 

The first week after your surgery will be the most uncomfortable. Your doctor will likely prescribe you painkillers to help ease your discomfort. In the next few weeks, you should begin to feel better. You will probably be able to start engaging in your routine activities. During this time, you should be in close contact with your primary care provider. 

Bottom Line 

Ultimately, breast augmentation surgery is a costly procedure that requires significant attention to detail and decision-making. The cost of your surgery will depend on several factors, including your location, your reasons for getting implants, the type of implant you choose to get, and your insurance status. You must obtain a formal consultation from a board-certified professional before your procedure to receive the best possible outcomes. 

Both before and after your procedure, it is fundamental that you have close contact with a primary care provider to ensure that your procedure and recovery go as smoothly as possible. Mira can be an excellent resource for primary care visit coverage. For just $45 a month, you can have access to affordable routine counseling, virtual and in-person doctor visits, laboratory testing, and urgent care. Sign up for Mira today!