How Much Does a Breast Augmentation Typically Cost?
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For several years now, breast augmentation has ranked as the top plastic surgery procedure for women in the US. More and more women are taking the plunge and fulfilling their desire for bigger, fuller breasts. If you’re thinking about breast enhancement, two of the most important things you should know are what the procedure entails, and how much breast augmentation surgery generally costs.
About the procedure
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that is done to enlarge the breasts, usually with implants. The breast implants are generally filled with either silicone gel or sterile salt water (aka saline).
Choosing the breast implant that’s right for you, is one of the most important concerns you will have with breast augmentation. Having an implant that’s too big for your body can lead to complications such as nerve damage, or sagging in the future.
Breast augmentation is typically done on an outpatient basis, and takes between 1-2 hours to perform. It can be done under ‘twilight’ or general anesthesia. There are different techniques that can be used to perform the breast augmentation, and this will determine the location of the incisions.
The breast implants can be placed either behind the chest muscle (sub-muscular), or between the breast tissue and the chest muscle (sub-glandular). Many women opt for sub-muscular placement because it gives a more realistic look.
What to expect
Most patients need to take at least 7 days off work after breast augmentation surgery, as there is generally some post-op, swelling, soreness, and bruising. While you probably won’t feel like yourself after that time, you’ll be well enough to go back to work if you have a desk job.
Breast augmentation is a lot safer than it once was, because of improvements in breast implant technology and design. Implants are now available in a range of shapes and profiles. The new generation of silicone implants are firmer and more cohesive, and there is less wrinkling and rippling.
Most women that have undergone breast enhancement have an overall positive experience, because they feel more confident about themselves when they see the final outcome.
What it costs
One of the reasons why breast augmentation is so popular, is because it’s considered very affordable. According to the 2016 statistics published by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of breast augmentation is $3,719.
However, patients should be aware that this cost is highly variable, as it is often influenced by the state you live in, the fee the surgeon charges, and other factors. For example, the cost for breast augmentation may include a mix of several charges including the cost of pre-operative visits, the surgeon’s fee, and charges for the operating facility. In addition, silicone implants cost more than saline implants — so be sure to ask the surgeon what’s included in the quoted price.
If you are considering breast augmentation surgery, don’t let cost be the deciding factor when selecting a surgeon. There are times when fees are comparatively lower than the average, and it could mean that it’s not an ‘all-inclusive’ cost. Unfortunately, it’s also possible that the surgeon could be cutting costs on matters that could compromise your safety.
Although cost is an important factor when choosing a plastic surgeon for breast augmentation, remember that getting beautiful, natural looking breasts is more dependent on the skill and experience of your plastic surgeon.
Are you a good candidate?
Women looking to enlarge their breasts or improve their shape and appearance, are considered good candidates for breast augmentation. Candidates should be healthy non-smokers, with no existing conditions that would put them at risk if they undergo surgery.
Candidates desiring silicone implants must be 22 years of age or older, and those requiring saline implants must be 18 years of age and older. Breast augmentation is not recommended for women that are pregnant or nursing.
Breast Augmentation Surgery near Knoxville & East Tennessee
Clients in the greater Knoxville and east Tennessee areas can contact Gallaher Plastic Surgery & Spa MD, to learn more about breast augmentation. We have offices in Knoxville, Powell, Crossville, and Loudon, TN. Call us today at 865-671-3888 to schedule a consultation or request an appointment online at https://www.gallaherplasticsurgery.com/contact-us/request-a-consultation/.