Breast augmentation candidates come to Lickstein Plastic Surgery with a wide range of questions about the procedure.
Some are concerned with aesthetics. They want to know if their breast implants will feel real, how much scarring to expect and whether anyone will be able to tell they’ve had it done. Others are concerned with function. They want to know how long recovery will last, what complications could occur and whether they’ll be able to breastfeed with implants.
Regardless of their body type, goals or motivations for considering surgery, there’s one question on every patient’s mind: “How much will my breast augmentation cost?”
There isn’t a simple answer. Each woman’s breasts are unique. So are the results she is seeking from surgery, as well as the materials and methods that will be used to achieve them. After a thorough evaluation and discussion, Dr. Lickstein will determine the final cost of your breast augmentation based on a variety of factors:
Implant Type
There are three basic types of breast implants available, each of which comes at a different price point.
- Saline: Saline implants feature an external silicone shell filled with a sterile saltwater solution that produces a uniform shape, firmness and feel. They are inserted empty and filled after they have been placed, allowing for smaller incisions and a more customized result.
- Silicone: Silicone implants consist of a silicone outer shell filled with a silicone gel. The gel material tends to look and feel more like breast tissue, making it a good option for women seeking natural results. The implants come pre-filled and must be placed through larger incisions.
- Cohesive Gel: Also known as “gummy bear” implants, cohesive gel implants are a form of silicone implant with filling that resembles the texture of gummy bear candy. They are firmer than traditional silicone implants, but because of this, they maintain their shape even if they tear or rupture.
Each type of implant has pros and cons, and no one type is right for all women. Dr. Lickstein will help you decide which is best for your body type and desired outcomes during your consultation.
Implant Profile
The profile of your implants determines how they sit on your chest and how far they project from the chest wall. Implants that are lower in profile are flatter in appearance, sit closer to the body and are ideal for women with wider chests. High profile implants project farthest from the chest and provide the most dramatic results; they are suited to women with smaller chests and women who want a more enhanced look. As their name suggests, moderate profile implants fall between these two options.
Implant Size
Implant sizes are measured by volume, not by bra cup. Though it’s helpful to begin with an idea of the cup size you hope to achieve, implant volume does not directly correlate to the lettered sizing you’re familiar with. You’ll want to “test drive” several options using sizers to find what works best for your shape, lifestyle and goals.
Implant Shape
Implants, regardless of fill material, are available in two shapes: round or teardrop. Round implants are circular and symmetrical in shape, providing more fullness in the upper area of the breast. Because they are the same shape in all directions, there is no concern about them rotating out of place in the future. Teardrop implants, also called anatomic implants, add more volume to the lower area of the breast than the upper pole for results that mimic the shape of natural breasts. They may feel slightly firmer than round implants and, due to their asymmetric profile, could require revision surgery if they shift out of position.
Implant Texture
Implants may have a smooth outer shell or a textured outer shell. Smooth implants feel softer to the touch and offer more natural movement, but are more prone to shifting within the implant pocket. Textured implants can feel less natural due to their thicker shell, but are less likely to move after placement (a particularly important factor when choosing teardrop implants).
Implant Placement
Implants may be placed in one of two positions. Subglandular placement situates the implant underneath the breast tissue and over the chest muscle. This is an effective option for women who have substantial tissue to cover their implants. Submuscular placement puts the implant below the breast tissue as well as below a portion of the chest muscle. This approach may be recommended for women who have a limited amount of breast tissue to conceal the edges of their implants.
Other Factors
These considerations are a start, but there are more decisions to be made and costs to account for prior to breast augmentation surgery. Dr. Lickstein will go over your options for incision location and surgical technique during your consultation. Remember that the total investment for breast implant surgery will also include fees for use of the facilities, anesthesia, special garments worn during recovery, and follow-up office visits. Dr. Lickstein will provide you with a detailed quote during your consultation so you are fully informed about the financial aspect of your surgery. Contact Lickstein Plastic Surgery today at 561-571-4000 to schedule an appointment.
