Your Questions

Q: Dr. Eppley, How much does a breast augmentation procedure cost? On one site, I read about cohesive gel. What is that? Is it better than silicone or saline implants?

A: The typical cost of breast augmentation varies based on whether one uses saline or breast implants. The cost of a pair of breast implants, which is included in the total fee for the procedure, adds anywhere from $1,000 to $ 2,200 to the composite total fee. Saline breast implants cost less than silicone breast implants because the implants cost less. In general, silicone implants are better than saline because they will last longer, do not develop rippling and the breast will not deflate immediately should the implant develop a hole or a rupture in its shell. These benefits explain why the cost of silicone implants is higher. The term ‘cohesive gel’ is a generic term that really applies to all silicone breast implants today. It means that rather than being a silicone liquid, the silicone is more congealed or is an actual gel. It does not flow like a liquid but acts more like a ‘gummy bear’ candy. This material feature explains why the silicone implant does not deflate should it rupture and why it feels more natural than a bag of water. (saline)

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana

Q: Dr. Eppley,  I am interested in getting breast augmentation but need to know the cost. I am 48 years old and have always been small. My breasts are in good shape but I want them larger and lifted. What would be an average cost as I am shopping.

A: The specific answer to your cost question depends on what type of implant you desire (saline vs silicone) and whether any formal type of breast lift is simultaneously needed. These two issues have a major role in the cost of the procedure. Without seeing pictures of your breasts, the best I can do is give a range from the lowest cost procedure (saline breast implants only) to silicone gel breast implants with a superior crescent and/or vertical breast lift. All costs included would put that cost range from $ 4,800 to $ 8,450. So you can appreciate how not knowing exactly what you need makes an accurate price quote impossible. The key question in this price range is whether one needs a simutaneous lift or not.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana

Q: Dr. Eppley, I have been working out for about three months now, and the first thing that always goes first are my breasts. I am currently a 34B, and I would like to be one cup size bigger. I looked at your before and after photos, and they look very good. I know I want them, but the cost is a big factor. Would I have to schedule a consultation with you in order to know how much it would cost? Thanks so much.

 A: Your description of the desire for breast augmentation is a common one. Whether it be from weight loss, exercise or pregnancy, breast tissue shrinkage or involution is one of the most common reasons for why women want breast implants. Their desire is to either return to a breast size that they once had or just get some more volume to fill out deflated and saggy breast skin. When it comes to determining cost of breast augmentation, an actual consultation is not necessary. The pricing of breast augmentation is one procedure in most plastic surgery practices which is fairly ‘standard’ and usually published. In my practice it would be around $4700 for saline breast augmentation and $5800 for silicone breast augmentation, all costs included. This pricing assumes that no other procedures are required such as any form of a breast lift.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana