What Factors Affect Breast Augmentation Cost?

At-a-Glance: The Biggest Cost Drivers

• Surgeon fee — reflects training, volume, and demand.
• Facility & anesthesia time — OR time is expensive; longer cases cost more.
• Implant type & add-ons — silicone typically costs more than saline; special devices may add cost.
• Combined procedures — adding a breast lift or fat grafting increases time and complexity.
• Case complexity — revisions, capsular work, or asymmetry correction raise costs.
• Geographic market — high-demand metros tend to have higher fees.
• Extras — garments, medications, optional extended recovery, and travel are usually separate.

Surgeon’s Experience & Demand

Fees vary by surgeon and are influenced by subspecialty focus, outcomes, reviews, and demand. High-volume breast surgeons often command higher professional fees; that doesn’t mean others can’t deliver good results, but it does affect pricing.

Facility & Anesthesia Time

Breast augmentation is performed in an accredited operating room under general anesthesia. OR time and anesthesia time scale with case length—more time = higher cost. Accredited surgery centers, hospital ORs, and in-office accredited suites have different fee structures.

Implant Type & Add-Ons

Device choice impacts cost. Silicone (“gummy bear” included) generally costs more than saline. Profile, size availability, and certain warranties can also influence pricing. Your exam helps determine which option fits your anatomy and goals.

Researching fill materials? See: Saline vs. Silicone Implants.

Combined Procedures (e.g., Lift)

Adding a breast lift (mastopexy) or fat grafting increases operative time and closure complexity, which increases total cost. Some patients need lift + augmentation for best shape and nipple position; others do well with implants alone.

Case Complexity (Primary vs Revision)

Primary augmentation is the most predictable. Revision procedures—such as pocket change, capsular contracture work, implant exchange, or symmetry corrections—take longer and are priced accordingly.

Geographic Market Rates

Fees vary by city due to demand, overhead, and staffing. Rather than chasing the lowest price or the most expensive zip code, compare surgeons who routinely perform augmentation and operate in accredited facilities.

What’s Included vs Not Included

How to Compare Quotes

• Same scope: Make sure quotes include the same items (implants, OR/anesthesia, follow-ups).
• Accreditation: Confirm the OR is accredited and anesthesia is delivered by qualified providers.
• Time assumptions: Clarify expected OR time; longer blocks cost more.
• Revision policy: Ask what’s covered if a touch-up is needed.
• Financing: Review payment and financing options before you book.

If you’re pricing care in Beverly Hills, see our current ranges here: Breast Augmentation Cost in Beverly Hills (2025).

FAQ

Do silicone implants cost more than saline?

Typically, yes—device cost for silicone is higher. Your anatomy and goals, not price alone, should drive the selection.

Does adding a lift increase the total price?

Yes. Lift + augmentation increases operating time and closure complexity. Some patients don’t require a lift; your exam determines that.

Why do quotes vary so much between surgeons?

Training, case volume, OR setup, and local demand differ. Compare like-for-like scopes in accredited settings.

What about financing?

Many patients use third-party medical financing. Review terms and total cost of credit alongside your clinical plan.