Breast Augmentation


Breast augmentation, AKA a boob job, is when the shape and size of a woman’s breasts are enlarged or enhanced by placing silicone or saline implants behind the individual breasts above or below the pectoral muscle. Implants can be round or teardrop shaped as well as smooth or textured. The breasts can also be enlarged through the use of fat harvested from other parts of the patient’s body such as the buttocks or abdomen. The procedure is also known as augmentation mammoplasty and it is performed to add volume to smaller breasts, provide balance to asymmetrical breasts and to give the patient a fuller figure.

Patients seeking to improve the symmetry of their breasts, correct congenital deformities, restore volume or have a better self-image can benefit from breast augmentation. Patients must be in good overall health and at least 18 years of age to get saline implants and 22 years of age to get silicone implants. Ideal candidates have also had a consultation appointment with a doctor in order to set realistic expectations about their results.

The average cost for breast augmentation is $4000-$6000 for saline implants and $6000-$8000 for silicone breast implants. These costs do not include facility fees, any fees charged by the doctor or anesthesia fees. The total cost also depends on the region of the United States where the surgery is performed. Breast surgery to treat traumatic injuries and breast cancer reconstruction may qualify to have some of the costs covered by medical insurance. However, cosmetic surgery that is not considered to be medically necessary is not covered by insurance plans.

It takes about 2-3 months for the breasts to settle into their final position after the surgery and the body to completely adjust to its new shape. Immediately after the augmentation, the breasts will sit high on the chest as the existing skin and tissue adjust to the augmentation. There will also be some swelling that makes the breasts seem larger than they will be once the final results are visible. The final results will be visible around 6 months after surgery. The incision location, as well as the type of incision used during the surgery, can affect the results and also the visibility of any scarring.