Average Cost of Breast Augmentation Surgery in 2024 - Top Cities and States
With 300,000 to 500,000 implants placed each year in the United States, breast augmentation is a popular procedure for women wanting to enhance their appearance [1]. If you’re considering a boob job, you may want to know: What do breast augmentation costs look like in 2024?
The national average surgeon’s fee for this breast surgery is $4,875, according to the American Board of Plastic Surgeons. But this figure does not include the cost of implants, anesthesia or the operating room fee, and can vary based on factors such as location, surgeon expertise, and implant type. It’s common to see the total cost come out to $12,000 or more after accounting for all expenses.
Breast augmentation cost by city and state
Where you are greatly impacts the cost of a breast augmentation. This variation is due to differences in local living costs, competition among surgeons, and regional demand for cosmetic procedures.
Let’s look at the costs in some major cities:
New York City, New York
In New York City, breast implant surgery costs between $6,000 and $20,000+.
Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles sees breast augmentation costs ranging from $6,000 to $15,000.
San Francisco, California
San Francisco’s steeper-than-average costs reflect the high cost of living there, ranging from $6,500 to $18,000.
Miami, Florida
In Miami, breast augmentation costs average between $4,000 and $12,000.
Note: The price ranges above are averages and may not include all fees. Some practices charge more but include additional costs like anesthesia and operating room fees in their total price. During your consultation, ask for a detailed breakdown of what’s included in the quoted price. When surgeons include more in their fees, you may actually be getting better value overall.
What factors affect the cost of breast augmentation surgery?
Understanding the different factors that affect the cost of breast augmentation will help you budget for your surgery:
Geographic location
As we’ve covered, where you get your surgery affects how much you’ll pay for a boob job. Surgeons in big cities and coastal areas often charge more due to higher living costs and demand. For example, a surgeon in New York City will likely charge more than one in a small Midwest town.
Some people travel to a different city or state for surgery to save money. But remember to factor in travel costs and the need for follow-up visits when considering this option.
Surgeon’s experience and reputation
More experienced surgeons with good reputations often charge higher fees. These surgeons have proven track records of successful surgeries and satisfied patients. They may also use more advanced techniques that lead to better results.
While it might be tempting to choose a cheaper, less experienced surgeon, this can be risky. A skilled one helps you avoid complications and achieve stunning results, which may save you money in the long run.
Facility fees
The place where you have your surgery affects the cost. Hospitals usually charge more than outpatient surgery centers. Some plastic surgeons, like Dr. Lowenstein, have their own private operating rooms, which helps lower costs and provide a more private and comfortable setting for your procedure.
Make sure the facility is accredited and safe, even if it costs a bit more. Good facilities have proper equipment and staff to handle emergencies that might come up during surgery.
Anesthesia fees
Anesthesia is a necessary part of breast augmentation surgery, and the type affects the cost. For example general anesthesia, which puts you to sleep, costs more than local anesthesia with sedation.
Additional costs associated with breast augmentation surgery
When budgeting for breast augmentation, account for these extra costs as well:
Post-surgery medication
After surgery, you’ll need pain medication and possibly antibiotics. These drugs help manage pain and prevent infection. Ask your surgeon about this beforehand so you can plan for this expense.
Follow-up visits
Surgeon’s fees typically include some follow-up visits. These checkups are critical to ensure you’re healing well. If you need extra visits beyond what’s included, you might have to pay more. Attend all scheduled follow-ups, even if you feel fine — they help catch any problems early.
Potential revision surgery
Sometimes, patients need a second surgery to fix problems or improve results. This isn’t common, but it can happen. Revision surgery can cost as much or more than your first surgery.
Types of breast augmentation procedures and costs
Your surgeon may use one of the following breast augmentation methods, each with unique costs and benefits:
Saline implants
Saline breast implants are inserted empty, and then once in the breast implant pocket, surgeons fill saline implants with sterile saltwater. They cost less than other types, usually around $1,600 per pair (doesn’t include related surgery expenses). One benefit of saline implants is if they leak, your body safely absorbs the saline. But some women feel they don’t look or feel as natural as silicone implants.
Silicone implants
Silicone implants are pre-filled with silicone gel. They typically cost more, around $2,000 per pair. Many women prefer silicone because they feel more like natural breast tissue. They’re also less likely to wrinkle or ripple under the skin. On the downside, it can be harder to detect if they leak.
Fat transfer breast augmentation
This procedure uses your fat to increase breast size. It can cost more than implants, usually $4,400 to $17,500. The surgeon takes fat from another part of your body like your thighs or flanks and puts it in your breasts. It gives a very natural look and feel. This may be a promising method if you want to go up around one cup size, but for more fullness and improved symmetry, implants tend to be a better option.
Smooth vs. textured implants
Smooth implants have a slippery surface and move around in the breast pocket. Textured implants, on the other hand, have a rough surface that helps them stay in place. They may lower the risk of capsular contracture, a complication where scar tissue tightens around the implant. However, textured implants have been associated with a rare type of lymphoma called BIA-ALCL — leading to safety concerns in recent years.
Cost-wise, textured implants may be a bit more expensive than smooth implants. But depending on where you go, the cost difference may be negligible.
Does insurance cover the breast augmentation surgery cost?
Most health insurance policies don’t cover breast augmentation if it’s done for cosmetic reasons. They see it as a choice, not a medical need. But there are some exceptions. For example, insurance may cover the cost if you need breast reconstruction after breast cancer surgery. Check with your insurance company before planning surgery. They’ll tell you exactly what they can cover and what they won’t.
Are there financing options for breast augmentation surgery?
Yes, two popular ways to pay for breast augmentation include:
Payment plans: Some plastic surgeons offer payment plans so you can pay for your surgery over time instead of all at once.
Medical credit cards: Medical credit cards like CareCredit often offer no-interest periods if you pay off the balance within a certain time.
Alternatively, you can take out a personal loan from your bank, use a high-rewards credit card, or save up and pay for the surgery in cash. Whatever option you choose, make sure you understand exactly how much you’ll pay in total — including interest.
Is breast augmentation surgery worth the money?
Whether breast augmentation is worth the money depends on you. Many women say it boosts their confidence and makes them feel better about their bodies. They enjoy how they look in clothing and swimsuits. For them, the improved self-image is worth the investment.
However, it’s important to have realistic expectations. Breast augmentation can enhance your look, but it’s a big decision. You must consider future costs, like possible replacement surgeries. Talk to a board-certified plastic surgeon about your goals — they’ll help you decide if it’s the right choice.
Risks and complications of low-cost breast augmentation
Choosing a surgeon based only on low cost can lead to serious problems:
Unsatisfactory results: Your breasts might look unnatural or uneven
Increased risk of infection: Cheaper facilities might not be as stringent with sterility, raising your chance of getting an infection
Longer recovery: Less skilled surgeons might use outdated techniques causing a longer healing period
Higher likelihood of revision surgery: You might need another surgery to fix problems from the first one
Potential for poor scarring: Poor surgical technique can leave larger and more noticeable scars that are hard to hide.
Breast augmentation alternatives to consider
If you’re unsure about breast implants, you can enhance your breasts in other ways:
Breast lift: Raises sagging breasts without making them bigger
Fat transfer: Uses your fat to slightly increase breast size
Tips for choosing a qualified plastic surgeon
Choosing the right surgeon is imperative for a safe and successful breast augmentation.
Keep the following in mind as you find a qualified plastic surgeon:
Verify board certification
Look for a surgeon with recognizable board certifications like the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This means they’ve completed special training in plastic surgery and passed rigorous exams. Board-certified surgeons must keep learning and improving their skills. They follow strict safety rules and ethical guidelines. This certification helps ensure you’re in good hands for your surgery.
Review the surgeon's experience and specialization
Choose a surgeon who does a lot of breast augmentations. Ask how many they’ve done and how often they do them. A surgeon specializing in breast procedures will likely have more skill and knowledge. They’ll know the latest techniques and how to handle problems that might come up.
Examine before-and-after photos
Ask to see pictures of the surgeon’s past patients, particularly ones with similar body types to yours. They can help you visualize what kind of results you might get. Pay attention to how natural the results look and ensure the “after” photos match the look you’re after.
Check patient reviews and testimonials
Read what other patients say about the surgeon. Look for reviews on independent websites like Google, Yelp and Realself, not just the surgeon’s site. These reviews can tell you about the surgeon’s bedside manner and how patients felt about their results.
Schedule a consultation and ask questions
Meet with at least two or three surgeons in person before deciding. Prepare a list of questions about the surgery, recovery, and results. A good surgeon will answer all your questions clearly and make you feel comfortable. They should listen to your goals and give honest advice. Trust your instincts — if something feels off, keep looking.
Why choose Dr. Lowenstein for your breast augmentation surgery?
Dr. Lowenstein has been double board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery. His extensive training and experience in cosmetic surgeries ensure patients receive high-quality care. As an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Dr. Lowenstein stays current with the latest advancements in breast augmentation techniques.
Uniquely, he offers a AAAASF-accredited private surgical facility in Santa Barbara where patients receive one-on-one care during surgery and recovery. This personalized attention sets his practice apart from shared surgical centers or hospitals where multiple patients are present. Patients who see Dr. Lowenstein feel more comfortable in their breast augmentation journey.
If you’re considering breast augmentation, Dr. Lowenstein offers consultations at Montecito Plastic Surgery. Call 805-969-9004 to schedule an appointment and learn how getting breast implants can improve your looks and confidence.
Sources:
1. University of Utah Health, “Do women with breast implants have a higher risk of cancer?” Accessed on July 9, 2024.