Sunday, March 7, 2010

augmentation, how much does it cost?

The cost of breast augmentation varies widely. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) the 2008 national average physician/surgeon fee for breast augmentation was $ 3,885 for silicone gel implants and $ 3,603 for saline implants.

Total cost, not just the surgeon's fee

However, this is not the total amount you will pay. These figures are for physician/surgeon fees only. They do not include fees like:


•Medical facility fees, alike OR room use, recovery room, nursing
•Anesthesiologist's fee
•1 or more nights hospitalization, if applicable
•Medications used during admission
•Pre-operative testing
•Follow up appointment
•Take home medication
Cost is determined by a number of factors, such as the location where the surgery is performed and skill and undergo of the surgeon. The more affluent an area is, and the more skilled and experienced the surgeon, the higher the cost. Also, the cost of breast augmentation varies by a number of personal preferences alike implants type, size, the location where the incision is made and the way the implant is placed.

Comparing prices

It is a good idea to shop around and compare prices. Nobody likes to be inflated prices. However, comparing prices can be difficult. Prices listed on websites or quotes given by medical facilities often do not include all cost and might modify considerably after an examination. Therefore, a quote should be no more than a first orientation.

Only after consulting a surgeon you will have an accurate estimate of all fees. Discuss your specific wishes and preferences; view the surgeon's before and after photos. Discuss your medical history and medicine use. Ask questions about the procedure and about your options. Finally, ask the surgeon what fees will be charged and what they cover, so you avoid unpleasant surprises afterwards.

Don't decide on price alone

While it is a good idea to shop around and get a number of quotes from different surgeons, price should not be the only factor. Deciding based on price alone could potentially turn out to be very costly, both financially and for your health and well being. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) in 2008 a number of 307,000 breast augmentation procedures were performed in the US. If done by a qualified, experienced surgeon in an accredited facility, it is a risk less procedure. However, every procedure carries a definite risk.

Therefore, when selecting a surgeon, look for qualifications and undergo and the quality of the facility where the procedure is performed. It is better to pay a less more and have the peace of mind knowing that you have selected a qualified, experienced surgeon. However, it is possible to save considerably on breast implant surgery. Some people travel abroad to have their breast implants done. This option becomes even more interesting if you combine your breast implant procedure with another procedure alike a face lift.

Always choose an accredited facility

It can be difficult to assess quality and safety of medical institutions, especially abroad. Going to another country to have your breast implants done can be an interesting option, because prices are often much lower. However, making sure the medical facility is risk less and up to standard is an absolute must. Choosing a facility that is JCI accredited assures that the facility offers the same quality as good hospitals in the US. JCI accreditation is your single best guarantee that the practices of doctors, nurses, medical assistants and the management team meet or exceed the standards of medical facilities in the US.

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