How much does breast augmentation cost?

Total: $6,000–$12,000 (surgeon fee + anesthesia + facility). Silicone implants cost $1,000–$2,000 more than saline. Geographic market affects total cost significantly.

How long do breast implants last?

Not lifetime devices. Many patients keep implants for decades without problems, but they may need replacement due to capsular contracture, rupture, or aesthetic changes. Annual check-ups and MRI every 5–6 years are recommended.

What is capsular contracture?

Scar tissue around the implant tightening, causing the breast to feel firm or change shape — occurs in ~10–15% of patients. Treatment ranges from medication to capsulectomy with implant exchange for severe cases.

Can I breastfeed after breast augmentation?

Most women with implants can breastfeed. Incisions that don't cross the areola (inframammary fold) have least impact on breastfeeding. Discuss your future breastfeeding plans with your surgeon when selecting incision placement.

Breast Augmentation — Find Trusted Plastic Surgery Professionals

What Is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation using implants or fat transfer is the most performed cosmetic surgery in the US — with well-documented outcomes and evolving implant technology.

Implant Options

Saline: filled with saltwater after placement, smaller incision, adjustable. Silicone gel: pre-filled, more natural feel, slightly larger incision. Structured saline (IDEAL Implant): internal baffles reduce sloshing. Highly cohesive ('gummy bear'): maintains shape if shell is compromised. The right choice depends on anatomy, tissue coverage, and goals.

Implant Placement

Sub-muscular (under pectoralis major): more natural in thin women, reduces rippling, may facilitate mammogram reading — more post-op discomfort. Sub-glandular (above muscle): less discomfort, more natural movement, higher rippling risk in thin patients. Dual plane: partially under muscle, common compromise.

Breast Implant Illness

BII describes systemic symptoms (fatigue, brain fog, joint pain) reported by some patients with implants. The FDA has investigated — causation not definitively established scientifically, but many patients report improvement after explantation. Review the FDA's updated safety communication with your surgeon.

BIA-ALCL Risk

BIA-ALCL is a rare immune system cancer linked specifically to textured-surface implants. Risk: estimated 1 in 2,000–86,000 with textured implants. Most are cured by implant removal alone. Smooth surface implants are not associated with BIA-ALCL.

What to Look for in a Plastic Surgery Provider

Board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) specifically — verify at abplasticsurgery.org
Hospital privileges at a Joint Commission-accredited facility
Accredited surgical facility (AAAASF, AAAHC, or Medicare-certified) for in-office procedures
Substantial before/after portfolio of your specific procedure
No disciplinary actions on your state's medical board website
Realistic, procedure-specific quotes — not vague 'starting at' prices

Professional Breast Augmentation