Breast Augmentation: making the decision

The numbers behind the choice — satisfaction, real costs, risks, and how to vet whoever does it. Everything here is sourced from published literature and public records, not ads.

Patient satisfaction

~95%

commonly cited in studies

Reoperation (10 yr)

~20%

Typical cost

$7,700

$6,000–$10,000 range

Near you

20 mi radius

The thing most people want to hear first: Consistently among the highest 'worth it' ratings of any procedure. Implants aren't lifetime devices — plan on maintenance eventually, not never.

What the price actually covers

A breast augmentation quote is usually three line items. Ballpark on a typical $7,700 total:

Surgeon's fee

$4,620

Anesthesia

$1,155

Facility / OR

$1,925

Quotes below the low end of the range ($6,000) deserve more questions, not fewer — ask what's excluded. Revision policy, garments, and follow-ups vary by practice and belong in writing.

The day of

In the OR

1–1.5 hrs

Anesthesia

General

Back to work

5–7 days

When you'll see the result

Recovery

1-2 weeks

Final result

~3 months

Results last

10+ years

Honest risks

Capsular contracture is the most common long-term reason for revision
Temporary nipple sensitivity changes
Implants may need replacement in 10–20 years

Are you a good candidate?

Fully developed (18+ saline / 22+ silicone per FDA)
Stable weight, not currently pregnant or nursing
Clear size goals — bring photos, ask for sizers

Only a consult answers this for sure — but if most of these describe you, you're asking the right questions.

Six questions for every consult

Are you board-certified, and in what specialty? (Verify it — don't just ask.)
How many of this exact procedure did you do in the last 12 months?
Can I see before/afters of patients with my anatomy or skin type?
Who handles complications, and what's your revision policy and fee?
Where is the procedure done, and is the facility accredited?
What results would you consider realistic for me — and what won't this fix?

Verify before you book

Check the medical license

Every Whelth profile shows the state license number from public records — look it up on your state medical board site in 30 seconds.

Confirm board certification

The American Board of Plastic Surgery and ABFPRS both have free public lookups. 'Cosmetic surgeon' is not a board.

Cross-check the NPI registry

The federal NPI database shows every provider's registered specialty — it's where our profiles start.

Read reviews for your procedure

A surgeon can be great at tummy tucks and average at noses. Filter reviews to the procedure you're getting.

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