Tag Archives: breast im[plant

Breast Implant Surgery Costs

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Before making a decision to have any surgery it is vital that you shop around and see what a selection of surgeons are charging for the same surgery.  Prices vary from as low as $5,000 to as much as $10,000 for breast implant surgery. Find out what costs are included in the price you are quoted and what extra costs might be added to your bill.  Here are some of the factors affecting the cost of surgery and the questions you should ask.

 

Ask what is included

When you are quoted a figure for surgery ask whether the following are included or not:

•    The initial consultation
•    Anesthesia
•    Operating room costs
•    The cost of the implants themselves
•    Surgeon’s fees
•    After care

Why may prices differ?

Financing may be available for your surgery but you need to check whether that option impacts the cost of your surgery, or the payment schedule.

Prices for surgery may vary for a variety of reasons, including the following:

•    Reputation and popularity of your surgeon, if they are highly regarded and in demand you will pay more
•    Where you live may affect the cost, some big cities and parts of the country may be more expensive
•    Type of surgery: enhancement or enlargement
•    Silicone breast implants are slightly more expensive than saline ones
•    The extent or complexity of your particular surgery
•    Using the latest, state-of-the-art technology may also affect price

There are lots of factors to look into and things to check before choosing your surgery team.  The most important of which is to check the qualifications of your surgeon.  You particularly want to know how many patients he has already performed this surgery on in order to assess his experience.  Ask for recommendations and to view “before and after” pictures of past patients.  Ask to be put in touch with these patients so you can be assured that you will select the best surgeon and surgery team you can.

Saline or Silicone Implants?

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A major decision facing someone considering whether to have breast implants is which type to choose. There has been wide media coverage recently of the faulty implant case in Europe which underlines the need for the patient to understand their options with regard to the types of implants available and which best suit their particular needs.

There are two major categories of implants:

Saline

  • A saline breast implant is a silicone shell filled with a salt-water solution known as saline. A benefit of saline implants is that, as the saline solution is similar to the fluids in your body, it is not harmful if it leaks.
  • Saline implants can be inserted empty through a small incision and inflated once in position. This reduces the incidence, location and appearance of scars.
  • Saline implants are available in different shapes and textures and are measured in cubic centimetres to determine size.
  • Some surgeons argue that smooth textured saline implants are limited by an unnatural feel, and visible ripples can be a problem, especially if you have low body fat.   Textured implants were introduced to try to combat this perceived issue.

Silicone

  • Silicone implants consist of a silicone shell filled with a silicone gel.
  • Silicone implants are considered more controversial as they are more problematic when they leak, although it should be noted that they are less likely to leak than saline implants.
  • Silicone implants have a more natural, breast-like appearance and come in a wide range of sizes and shapes.
  • Silicone implants are less likely to ripple and will retain their shape better
  • They are inserted pre-filled so a larger incision is required and therefore a larger scar may result
  • Silicone implants are usually inserted in the fold under the breast and cannot be inserted by an armpit incision.

Whichever type of implant you select for your particular procedure, you should be aware that both types involve similar potential risks which may include:

  • Breast pain following surgery.
  • Changes, or loss of sensation, in the breast.
  • Scars.
  • Risk associated with implant leak requiring additional surgery.