Getting breast implants is an expensive procedure that can change the size, shape, and position of your nipples. It is usually considered cosmetic surgery and health insurance won’t cover it.
It involves either saline or silicone gel-filled artificial shells that are placed under the skin. It is also called augmentation mammaplasty.
The Cost
When getting a boob job, you want to ensure you have your treatment done by an expert plastic surgeon with excellent reputation. Unfortunately, the number of pop up breast clinics and surgeons in training offering cheap boob jobs has increased – and this can lead to patients being left with poor results or even worse, having to go back to surgery to fix botched work.
The most common boob surgery is a breast augmentation procedure, which involves making the breasts larger and perkier with either artificial implants or fat transfers. The cost of this will depend on the type and size of implants chosen, and also whether you opt for silicone or saline implants. Choosing saline implants will usually result in lower future costs than silicone ones as the implants won’t rupture (although saline implants may deflate over time).
It is worth remembering that if you have silicone breast implants, you’ll need to attend regular screenings for up to 12 years, because the implants could rupture and require replacement. The implants can also change shape over time, and the nipple will develop a “scar shell” that can alter their appearance.
Health insurance doesn’t usually cover boob jobs, because they are considered to be elective procedures rather than medically necessary ones (although if the implants are needed for reconstruction following cancer or childbirth then it’s possible that they may be covered). This means that the best way to reduce your boob surgery costs is by opting for a clinic abroad where the standards match and sometimes exceed those of the UK.
The Procedure
Getting your boobs done (or breast augmentation) is a major surgery, so it’s important to find a plastic surgeon who you trust. Choosing someone who has extensive training and certification from reputable organizations is vital. They will also be able to answer any questions or concerns you may have about the procedure, including potential complications.
During a boob job, a doctor makes an incision that creates a pocket either behind or under the pectoral muscle on your chest. They then inserts the implant, which can be either saline or silicone. After that, they will close the incision. Some doctors also suggest adding a fat transfer or areola reduction to enhance the results.
Once the implants are in, they need time to settle. After a few weeks, the swelling will subside and you’ll be able to see what your new boobs look like. It’s a good idea to have a friend take pictures right after your surgery, but keep in mind the photos will be covered with bruising and swelling.
According to RealSelf, the average boob job cost is around $6,575, but that figure can vary depending on where you live and your surgeon’s fees. If you’re considering a boob job, it’s important to budget for the surgeon’s fee, hospital and anesthesia costs, and the price of the implants themselves.
The Surgeon
After deciding that breast surgery is the right choice for you, the next step is to choose a surgeon who can help you reach your goals. During your initial consultation, the plastic surgeon will listen to your needs and answer any questions you have. They will also help you estimate the cost of your boob job and offer financing options that can make it more affordable.
Some of the factors that can influence your boob job cost include the surgeon’s fee, the type of implants you want to get and the geographic location. You will also need to consider additional costs such as hospital or surgical facility fees, anesthesia, and any medical tests you may need before or after the procedure.
Another consideration is the fact that most insurance companies don’t cover boob jobs because they are considered elective procedures rather than medically necessary. However, if you have experienced breast cancer or other health problems that cause your chest to look smaller than you would like, then you may be eligible for an insurance-covered procedure.
When it comes to choosing your surgeon, be sure to find one who is board-certified. This will ensure you are getting the highest quality results and that you have the best chance of avoiding complications. A surgeon who is board-certified will have undergone rigorous training and meets a high standard of practice.
The Recovery
If you are feeling less than confident about your breasts due to age, dramatic weight changes or childbirth, a boob job can restore your self-esteem and give you the boost in confidence that you need. However, it’s important to know the cost before you undergo the procedure. The price of a breast augmentation is different for everyone and depends on the type of surgery you have, the surgeon you choose, whether you opt to get a lift at the same time and your health insurance coverage.
In a typical procedure, the surgeon will create an incision either behind or in front of the pectoral muscle, depending on the size and shape you want your breasts to have. Then they will create a pocket inside the tissue to insert the implant. The pocket is filled with either saline or silicone gel. Once the implants are in place, they will be stitched up and bandaged.
After your boob job, it’s important to let your body rest. You should avoid exercise and lifting anything heavy until you have hit the six-week mark. Even if you feel fully healed, don’t rush back into sex because your breasts will need to settle in to their new positions.
