Understanding the Costs of Breast Surgery (Without the Sales Pitch)

A low headline price can hide the cost of monitoring, complications and revision. Compare what is included, not just the final number.

What a quote may include

• Surgeon’s fee
• Anaesthetist’s fee
• Hospital or facility charges, including theatre time and overnight stay
• The implants, or the fat transfer equipment
• Pre-operative tests and consultations
• Medication and post-operative garments
• Follow-up appointments

What may be excluded

• Imaging, such as an MRI or ultrasound, before or after surgery
• Treatment of complications
• Revision surgery, even if the cause is a complication
• Implant replacement later
• Time off work and travel

Questions to ask

• Is this a total or a package price? What is not included?
• If I need another operation within the first year or two, what will I pay?
• What is the warranty on the implant, and what does it cover? Often it covers the device but not surgery.
• Do I pay anything extra for an overnight stay?

Long-term costs

Because implants are not lifetime devices, plan for monitoring, possible replacement and breast changes over time. See how long implants last.

Red flags

• A price far below others
• Pressure to pay a deposit immediately
• No written, itemised estimate
• Financing offered before medical assessment

Insurance

Cosmetic surgery is usually not covered, but treatment of some complications might be. Check with your insurer before you proceed.