How Much Is Breast Augmentation And What Does It Include?

As with any cosmetic procedure, the decision to undergo surgery is extremely personal and requires the patient to take a variety of things into consideration. Without a doubt, the cost of a procedure is often one of the most important factors in deciding whether or not to ultimately pursue the surgery. In the case of breast augmentation, it is exceedingly important for patients considering the procedure to first understand what it entails, how much it may cost, whether or not insurance will cover it, and what their options for revision are. The caring and compassionate team of plastic surgeons at Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery in Northern Virginia understand the personal and sensitive nature of deciding to undergo breast augmentation and are dedicated to helping patients make appropriate and informed decisions every step of the way.

What is breast augmentation, and who needs it?

Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic surgery that is designed to increase the volume and size of a woman's breasts. This can be accomplished through the use of artificial implants – either saline or silicone gel – or a fat transfer to the breast.

There are a variety of complaints or concerns that may lead a woman to pursue breast augmentation. For some women, wanting larger breasts is a matter of personal preference. Many patients enjoy being able to wear certain styles of clothing more confidently and report feeling more feminine overall with breast implants. One of the most common scenarios leading to breast augmentation is the loss of breast volume due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss, or aging alone. In these cases, women, oftentimes, opt to combine their breast augmentation with a breast lift, tummy tuck, or another treatment as part of a larger mommy makeover procedure.

Regardless of the reasons that you are considering breast augmentation, the talented and experienced surgeons at Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery are here to help.

Which kind of implant should I get?

While the decision about which type of breast implant to get is ultimately up to the patient and the surgeon, there are a few factors to consider in determining which may be most appropriate for you.

• Saline: Saline implants can be beneficial in a number of situations. For example, saline implants are approved for use in patients younger than 22 years of age, whereas silicone implants are not. Another advantage of saline implants is that a rupture can be easily detected, as the saline solution will leak out of the implant and be absorbed by the body. While this is not harmful to the patient, the immediate loss of volume and asymmetry that results from a ruptured saline implant can certainly be somewhat problematic in the short term.
• Silicone gel: Silicone gel implants are growing in popularity each year. Many patients and surgeons agree that silicone implants look and feel more like natural breasts when compared to saline implants. Another unique advantage of silicone gel implants is that they are less prone to visible rippling than saline implants. This is an important consideration for patients who are thinner and/or have less native breast tissue to conceal any rippling that may be present. One downside of silicone gel implants, in some people's minds, is that it can be difficult or even impossible to detect a rupture without the use of MRI. However, because the implant is made from a solid-like gel substance, rather than a free-flowing fluid, it will not leak outside of the capsule and harm the patient.
• Fat grafting: Fat grafting, which is also known as fat transfer to the breast, is another method of breast augmentation. Fat transfer can be very attractive for patients looking for a more natural alternative to synthetic implants, as it only makes use of a patient's own fat to increase the volume of the breast. However, there are limitations to how much fat can be transferred, and the results can change with future weight fluctuation.

During your initial consultation at Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery, your knowledgeable surgeon will discuss your concerns and goals at length in order to recommend the breast augmentation method that will best meet your needs.

How much does breast augmentation cost in Northern Virginia?

The precise fee for breast augmentation can vary from patient to patient, depending on the surgeon, the facility, any associated treatments being performed, and a number of other factors. On average, the cost of breast augmentation at Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery can be expected to start around $6,400. If a patient is interested in adding a breast lift to their breast augmentation, she can generally expect to spend about an additional $1,000.

Many patients wonder whether breast augmentation can be covered by insurance. Unfortunately, breast augmentation is almost always considered a procedure that is performed solely for cosmetic purposes, making it ineligible for insurance coverage. Patients undergoing breast reconstruction after breast cancer, however, may very likely receive insurance coverage for part or all of their procedure.

One exciting aspect of having your breast augmentation performed at Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery is that we offer an internal warranty in addition to the warranty offered by the implant manufacturer. Most implants will be covered by the manufacturer's warranty for ten years. In addition, Austin-Weston gives patients a three-year warranty at no charge to cover capsular contracture, problems with an implant's position, and other issues. Ask your surgeon or patient care coordinator for more details about this incredible warranty package.

How do I find the best breast augmentation surgeon in Northern Virginia?

If you are ready to finally achieve the stunning, balanced, and feminine physique you have always wanted, the first and most important step is to select a highly qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. The exceptional providers at Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery, are plastic surgeons who have a reputation of helping women reach their ultimate aesthetic goals successfully, time and time again.

Call Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery in Reston, VA today to schedule your one-on-one consultation, and discover how breast augmentation can enhance your body, boost your confidence, and improve every aspect of your life!