Like all cosmetic surgeries, the cost can vary for breast augmentation surgery depending on the cosmetic surgeon and the patient. However, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost in 2016 for breast augmentation was $3,719. The variances in price depend on whether implants or fat transfer is used, the surgeon’s fees, the cost of the medical facility, anesthesia fees, medications and other factors.

When you initially meet with your plastic surgeon to discuss breast augmentation surgery, this is an opportunity for you to learn more about the procedure and for the surgeon to determine whether you are a viable candidate for the surgery. The surgeon will want information about your medical history, reasons for wanting a breast job and what expectations you desire for your breasts, as well as discuss the different options for implants and enhancement.
During your consultation, you should be prepared to ask questions to get to know your surgeon better and understand the procedure. Some questions you may want to ask include:

• What are your qualifications as a cosmetic surgeon?
• How many breast augmentations have you performed?
• Can I view before and after pics of previous breast augmentations you have completed?
• What are the risks of this surgery?

Deciding to have breast augmentation surgery is a major decision. You want to ensure you have the best cosmetic surgeon for your procedure to get the results you desire.

Every type of surgery comes with minor to fatal risks and possible complications. Breast augmentation does have risks, which you should discuss with your plastic surgeon. Possible issues can include:

• Reactions to the anesthesia
• Infection of the surgical site
• Bleeding problems or hematoma
• Fluid retention, swelling and bruising
• Scarring or scar tissue formation around the implant
• Ongoing numbness, pain or loss of sensitivity
• Implant rupture or leaking
• Poor form or aesthetics that may require revision surgery

It is always important to know the risks and make an informed decision before any elective surgery. Talk to your cosmetic surgeon on ways to reduce the risks and minimize the chance of any complications.

Like any surgery, you want to limit risks by avoiding aspirin, smoking and other substances that can impact healing and blood clotting. Your surgeon will tell you what to avoid in the days before your surgery. You can expect to need lab tests and a medical checkup to evaluate your health for surgery. Plan to have someone to come with you to your surgery appointment that can bring you home and make sure you get the care and medications needed during recovery.

Most breast augmentations take about one to two hours, but you may be at the medical facility longer to recover from the anesthesia before you can go home. The surgery will begin with the anesthesia, usually deep sedation is sufficient, but general anesthesia is an option for this procedure. Each cosmetic surgeon may have his own methods for breast augmentations, but usually the incision is made at the edge of the areola, under the breast or in the arm pit. For implant placement, the implant can be put under the pectoral muscle or on top of it, depending on the patient and desired results. Once the correct position is achieved, the incision is closed. Armpit incisions leave no visible breast or chest scars.

Your surgeon will give you instructions and medications to assist in your recovery. Medications can include pain relievers and antibiotics to prevent infection. Some type of support garment or bra will be needed to hold the breasts in place as they heal, and you may need to clean or care for the incisions.
Discomfort and pain usually begin to fade in intensity after a few days but swelling and some discomfort are normal for a few weeks after surgery. It is best to sleep on your back for at least a month after surgery while the breasts heal. You will have follow up appointments with your plastic surgeon to check on the healing process.