Combined Breast Lift and Augmentation: What’s the Investment?

Understanding the Investment in Your Breast Improvement Journey

The breast lift and augmentation cost typically ranges from $13,000 to $17,000 or more for a combined procedure. Here’s what you need to know about the investment:

Quick Cost Breakdown:

• Breast Lift Alone: $6,816 average surgeon’s fee (2023)
• Breast Augmentation Alone: $4,875 average surgeon’s fee (2023)
• Combined Procedure: $13,000–$17,000+ total (includes all fees)
• What’s Included: Surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, facility costs, implants, pre/post-op visits

Key Cost Factors:

• Implant type (silicone vs. saline)
• Surgeon’s experience and location
• Surgical complexity and technique
• Additional costs (medications, garments, tests)

When you’re considering both lifting and enhancing your breasts, understanding the total investment is crucial. A combined breast lift and augmentation addresses two concerns at once—sagging breasts and loss of volume—often making it more cost-effective than staging two separate surgeries.

The national data shows that while individual procedures have their own price tags, combining them doesn’t simply add the two costs together. You save on anesthesia fees, facility costs, and recovery time by doing both procedures in one operation. However, the final price varies significantly based on your specific needs, your surgeon’s expertise, and your geographic location.

Many patients find that the investment in a combined procedure delivers more comprehensive, long-lasting results than either surgery alone. The key is understanding exactly what you’re paying for and why those costs vary.

As Stanley Okoro, a double board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in breast improvement procedures, I’ve helped countless patients steer the breast lift and augmentation cost decision at Georgia Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. My approach focuses on delivering natural-looking results while ensuring you understand every aspect of your investment, from initial consultation through complete recovery.

Cost Breakdown: Breast Lift vs. Breast Augmentation

Understanding the individual costs of a breast lift and breast augmentation is the first step in appreciating the value of combining these procedures. While each surgery addresses different aesthetic goals, their baseline costs provide a foundation for discussing the comprehensive investment of a combined approach. We’ll explore these separate costs, keeping in mind that these figures often represent just the surgeon’s fee, and don’t include all associated expenses.

The Price of a Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

A breast lift, medically known as mastopexy, is designed to raise and reshape sagging breasts. It achieves a more youthful and liftd breast contour by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue. This procedure does not typically add volume but rather repositions the existing breast tissue.

According to the latest statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the average surgeon’s fee for a breast lift (mastopexy) in 2023 was $6,816. This figure represents the surgeon’s fee alone. The total breast lift and augmentation cost will always be higher once other expenses are factored in.

Surgeon’s Fee vs. Total Cost: The surgeon’s fee covers the expertise and time of your plastic surgeon. However, the full cost of a breast lift will also include anesthesia fees, operating room facility costs, medical tests, post-surgery garments, and prescriptions for medication. These additional elements can significantly increase the final price. For instance, some sources indicate that the average cost of a breast lift, including these additional expenses, can range from $3,700 to $16,000, or even $8,000 to $10,000 and up, depending on various factors.

Surgical Complexity: The complexity of your breast lift plays a significant role in its cost. The degree of breast sagging (ptosis) and the amount of skin removal required will influence the surgical technique chosen, which in turn impacts the procedure’s duration and complexity. More involved surgeries often translate to higher fees.

Lift Technique Impact on Price: There are several techniques for breast lifts, each suitable for different degrees of sagging:

• Circumareolar (Donut) Lift: This technique involves an incision around the areola and is typically used for mild sagging. It usually results in less visible scarring.
• Vertical Lift: For moderate sagging, a vertical lift involves an incision around the areola and a vertical incision extending down to the breast crease.
• Anchor Lift (or Inverted T-Lift): This technique is reserved for significant sagging and involves incisions around the areola, vertically down to the breast crease, and horizontally along the breast crease. While it can achieve the most dramatic lift, it also results in the most extensive scarring.

The choice of technique directly influences the surgical time, the surgeon’s effort, and consequently, the fee. More complex techniques like the anchor lift will generally be on the higher end of the price spectrum.

The Price of Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation surgery aims to increase breast size and improve fullness, typically using breast implants. It’s a popular procedure for those seeking to improve their silhouette or restore volume lost due to pregnancy, weight fluctuations, or aging.

The average surgeon’s fee for breast augmentation with implants was $4,875 in 2023, according to ASPS statistics. Similar to breast lifts, this is just the surgeon’s fee and does not encompass the entire breast lift and augmentation cost. When considering all associated expenses, the total price for breast augmentation can range from $3,600 to $9,000, or even $5,100 to $18,465 depending on the specific details.

Implant Type Impact: The type of breast implant you choose is a significant factor in the overall cost. The two primary types are:

• Saline Implants: These are filled with sterile saltwater during the procedure. They are generally less expensive than silicone implants.
• Silicone Implants: These are pre-filled with silicone gel and are often preferred for their natural look and feel. They typically come at a higher price point.

Beyond saline and standard silicone, there are also advanced options like cohesive gel implants (often called “gummy bear” implants), which are the most expensive due to their form-stable nature. We’ll dig deeper into implant choices and their costs later.

Fat Transfer Augmentation Cost: For patients seeking a modest increase in breast size (typically no more than one bra cup size) with a highly natural feel, breast augmentation with fat grafting is an option. This procedure involves liposuction to harvest fat from another area of your body, which is then purified and injected into the breasts.

While it avoids implants, fat transfer augmentation is often more expensive due to the added liposuction procedure. The average cost for breast augmentation with fat grafting was $5,719 in 2023, according to ASPS. RealSelf reported an average cost of $9,275 for this procedure. It’s also worth noting that the results are less predictable than with implants, as only about 60% to 80% of the transferred fat survives the process.

Surgeon Experience: Just as with breast lifts, the experience and reputation of your chosen surgeon significantly influence the cost of breast augmentation. Highly experienced, board-certified plastic surgeons often command higher fees, reflecting their skill, specialized training, and track record of successful outcomes.

Understanding the Total Breast Lift and Augmentation Cost

When you combine a breast lift with breast augmentation, you’re investing in a comprehensive change that addresses both the position and volume of your breasts. This approach is often more efficient and, in many cases, more cost-effective than undergoing two separate surgeries. Let’s break down what this combined investment looks like.

Average Breast Lift and Augmentation Cost: A National Snapshot

While the average surgeon’s fee for a standalone breast lift was $6,816 and for breast augmentation was $4,875 in 2023, simply adding these numbers doesn’t give you the full picture of a combined procedure. The total breast lift and augmentation cost for a combined surgery typically ranges from $13,000 to $17,000 and up.

This range reflects the inclusion of all components: the surgeon’s fee for both elements, anesthesia, facility costs, and implants.

Here’s a simplified comparison of average surgeon’s fees and the typical all-in price range for these procedures:

Please note: The “Typical All-In Price Range” for individual procedures can vary widely based on location, surgeon, and other factors.

Cost Savings Explanation: You might wonder why the combined procedure isn’t just the sum of the two individual procedures. The primary reason for potential cost savings lies in the efficiency of performing both procedures during a single surgical session:

• Single Anesthesia Fee: Instead of paying for anesthesia twice, you only incur this cost once. Anesthesia fees are typically calculated based on the duration of the surgery, and while a combined procedure is longer than either alone, it’s generally less than two separate anesthesia administrations.
• Single Facility Fee: Similarly, you only pay for the operating room and surgical facility costs once. These fees cover the use of the surgical suite, equipment, and nursing staff. Performing both procedures concurrently eliminates the need for a second facility booking.
• Reduced Recovery Time and Associated Costs: While not a direct component of the surgical fee, combining procedures means a single recovery period. This can save you money on time off work, childcare, and multiple sets of post-operative garments or medications.

Combining these procedures is a strategic choice that can optimize your investment, providing a more comprehensive result with a single recovery journey.

What’s Typically Included in Your All-In Quote?

When we provide an “all-in” quote for your combined breast lift and augmentation, we aim for transparency so you understand every component of the breast lift and augmentation cost. While specifics can vary slightly between practices, our comprehensive quotes at Georgia Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery generally include:

• Surgeon’s Fee: This covers our expertise, surgical skills, and the time we dedicate to your procedure. Our fees reflect our board certification, extensive experience, and commitment to natural-looking results.
• Board-Certified Anesthesiologist Fee: Your safety is paramount. We only work with board-certified anesthesiologists who administer and monitor your anesthesia throughout the surgery. This fee covers their professional services.
• Accredited Surgical Facility Costs: This includes the use of our state-of-the-art, accredited operating room, sterile equipment, and the support of our highly trained nursing and medical staff. Operating in a JCAHO-certified facility, like ours, ensures the highest standards of safety and care.
• Cost of Breast Implants: If you choose breast augmentation with implants, their cost is included. This accounts for the specific type, brand, and size of implants selected during your consultation.
• Pre-operative and Post-operative Appointments: Your journey with us extends beyond the operating room. Our quotes typically cover all necessary pre-surgery consultations and post-operative follow-up visits to monitor your healing and ensure optimal results.

We believe in providing a clear breakdown of these costs so there are no surprises on your journey to improvement.

Potential Additional Expenses to Budget For

While an all-in quote covers the primary surgical and facility costs, it’s wise to budget for several potential additional expenses that contribute to the overall breast lift and augmentation cost. These are often out-of-pocket costs that are not typically included in the surgical package:

• Pre-surgery Medical Tests: Depending on your health and medical history, you may require blood tests, mammograms, or other diagnostic evaluations before surgery. These are crucial for ensuring you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
• Prescription Medications: You’ll likely need prescriptions for pain medication, antibiotics, and possibly anti-nausea medication to aid in your recovery.
• Post-surgery Compression Garments or Special Bras: We will recommend or provide specific support garments designed to reduce swelling, provide comfort, and help shape your new breasts during the initial healing phase. While some practices include a basic garment, you might need additional ones or specialized bras.
• Recovery Time Off Work: Plan for adequate time off from work or your daily responsibilities to recover comfortably. The duration varies, but typically, patients need 1-2 weeks off from strenuous activities. Lost wages or the cost of temporary help should be considered in your budget.
• Future Implant Replacement: Breast implants are not lifetime devices. They may need replacement after 10-15 years, or sooner if complications arise or your aesthetic goals change. This future procedure will incur additional costs, including surgeon’s fees, anesthesia, and new implants.
• Revision Surgery: While rare, complications can occur, or you may desire further refinement years down the line. Revision surgeries will involve additional fees.
• Overnight Stay (if recommended): For some patients, or depending on the complexity of the procedure, an overnight stay in a recovery facility might be recommended, which would be an additional charge.

By considering these potential extra expenses, you can create a more comprehensive and realistic budget for your entire breast improvement journey.

Key Factors That Drive Your Final Price

While national averages provide a useful benchmark, your final breast lift and augmentation cost will be highly personalized. Several key factors influence your specific quote, reflecting the unique nature of your anatomy, your desired outcome, and the expertise involved.

Surgeon’s Experience and Geographic Location

Choosing your plastic surgeon is perhaps the most critical decision in your breast improvement journey. It’s certainly more important than finding the lowest price.

• Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon: We strongly advocate for choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon, like Dr. Okoro. Board certification signifies rigorous training, adherence to ethical standards, and a commitment to patient safety. Surgeons with extensive experience and a strong reputation for excellent results will typically have higher fees, but this investment often translates to greater peace of mind and superior outcomes. As the ASPS wisely notes, the surgeon’s experience and your comfort with them are just as important as the final cost.
• Surgeon’s Reputation: A surgeon renowned for specific techniques or natural-looking results will reflect that in their pricing. Their demand and track record of patient satisfaction contribute to their fee structure.
• Geographic Location: The cost of plastic surgery procedures, including the breast lift and augmentation cost, varies significantly by geographic region. Practices located in major metropolitan areas, like Atlanta, generally have higher operating expenses (rent, staff salaries, insurance) compared to those in smaller cities or rural areas. This difference in overhead is often reflected in the procedure costs. For instance, the same procedure might cost more in Atlanta than in a less populated area of Georgia.

Importance of Consultation: This is why a personalized consultation is indispensable. It allows us to assess your specific needs, discuss your goals, and provide an accurate, transparent quote that accounts for all these variables.

Implant Choice: Saline vs. Silicone

The type of breast implant you select is a major determinant of your breast lift and augmentation cost.

• Saline Implant Cost: Saline implants are typically the most budget-friendly option. They consist of a silicone shell filled with sterile saline solution during the surgery. Their cost is generally lower, and they can be adjusted in size during the procedure for a precise fit.
• Silicone Implant Cost: Silicone implants are pre-filled with a cohesive silicone gel. Many patients prefer silicone implants because they tend to feel and look more natural than saline. Consequently, silicone implants usually have a higher cost compared to saline options.
• Natural Feel vs. Cost-Effectiveness: The decision between saline and silicone often comes down to a balance between desired natural feel and budget. While saline is more cost-effective, silicone often provides a more natural tactile experience.
• Cohesive Gel (“Gummy Bear”) Implants: These are a type of silicone implant known for their form-stable, “gummy bear” consistency. They maintain their shape even if the implant shell is compromised and are often teardrop-shaped to mimic natural breast contours. Gummy bear implants are generally the most expensive implant option due to their advanced technology and natural aesthetic.

The specific brand of implant (e.g., Motiva, Mentor, Sientra, Allergan) can also influence the price, as different manufacturers offer proprietary technologies and warranties.

Factors That Influence Your Final Breast Lift and Augmentation Cost

Beyond the surgeon and implant type, several other surgical specifics directly impact your final breast lift and augmentation cost:

• Surgical Complexity: The more intricate the surgery, the higher the cost. This can be influenced by your individual anatomy, the degree of correction needed, and any unique challenges presented during the procedure.
• Primary vs. Revision Surgery: If you’re undergoing breast improvement for the first time (primary surgery), the costs will differ from a revision surgery. Revision procedures are often more complex, requiring additional surgical time and expertise to correct previous issues or achieve new goals, which can result in higher fees.
• Extent of Breast Sagging: The degree of breast ptosis (sagging) dictates the complexity of the breast lift component. Significant sagging will require more extensive skin removal and reshaping, potentially leading to a longer surgery and a higher cost.
• Chosen Lift Technique (e.g., anchor lift): As discussed earlier, the specific breast lift technique chosen (circumareolar, vertical, or anchor) is directly related to the extent of sagging and the desired outcome. More invasive techniques like the anchor lift, while providing significant improvement for severe sagging, involve longer surgical times and more complex wound closure, increasing the overall cost.

Each of these elements contributes to the custom nature of your breast lift and augmentation cost. Our goal is to ensure you understand how these factors apply to your personalized treatment plan.

Navigating Payment: Insurance and Financing Options

Understanding how to pay for your breast improvement procedure is a crucial part of the planning process. While the breast lift and augmentation cost can be a significant investment, various options are available to help make your aesthetic goals achievable.

Does Insurance Cover a Breast Lift and Augmentation?

It’s a common question, and the answer is usually straightforward:

• Elective Cosmetic Procedure: In most cases, a combined breast lift and augmentation is considered an elective cosmetic procedure. This means it is performed solely for aesthetic improvement and is not deemed medically necessary.
• Generally Not Covered by Insurance: Because it’s elective, health insurance typically does not cover the breast lift and augmentation cost. This includes the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, facility costs, implants, and any complications arising from purely cosmetic surgery. You will need to plan for out-of-pocket payment.
• Breast Reconstruction Exception: There’s a notable exception: if breast augmentation and/or a lift is part of a breast reconstruction process following a mastectomy (due to cancer or other medical conditions), then portions of the procedure may be covered by insurance. This is because reconstruction is considered medically necessary to restore the body after disease.
• Reviewing Your Policy: We always advise our patients to carefully review their individual health insurance policy if there is any doubt or if they believe their situation might qualify for an exception. However, for purely aesthetic purposes, expect to cover the costs yourself.

Popular Financing Plans for Your Procedure

For those looking to manage the breast lift and augmentation cost without a single upfront payment, several financing options are available. We understand that this is a significant investment, and we’re here to help you explore solutions that fit your budget.

• Third-Party Financing Companies: Many patients use specialized medical financing companies like CareCredit® or PatientFi®. These companies offer healthcare credit cards with various payment plans, often including options for deferred interest if the balance is paid within a promotional period. They can make the cost more manageable by breaking it down into affordable monthly payments.
• Flexible Payment Options: Some practices, including ours, may offer flexible payment options or work with you to create a payment schedule for certain components of the cost. Always ask about what in-house options might be available.
• In-House Payment Plans: While less common for the entire surgical fee, some clinics might offer payment plans for smaller components or for services not covered by third-party financing.
• Personal Loans: You can also explore obtaining a personal loan from a bank or credit union. These loans typically have fixed interest rates and repayment terms, providing a predictable monthly payment.
• Credit Cards: Standard credit cards can be used, but it’s important to be mindful of interest rates. If you have a card with a low or 0% introductory APR, this could be a short-term solution, but long-term interest can significantly increase your overall cost.
• Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): If you have an HSA or FSA, you can often use these pre-tax funds to pay for qualified medical expenses, which may include certain aspects of cosmetic surgery that are deemed medically necessary or for prescribed post-operative care items. However, for purely cosmetic procedures, direct use for the surgery itself is usually not permitted.

We encourage you to discuss these options during your consultation. Our team can provide information on how to apply for third-party financing and help you understand the best approach for your financial situation.

Conclusion: Making a Confident and Informed Decision

Starting on a journey to improve your breast aesthetics with a combined breast lift and augmentation is a deeply personal decision, and understanding the breast lift and augmentation cost is a vital part of that process. We’ve explored how individual procedure costs, surgeon’s expertise, implant choices, geographic location, and additional expenses all contribute to your final investment.

While the national average for a combined procedure typically falls between $13,000 and $17,000+, this isn’t just a number; it’s an investment in your confidence, comfort, and the lasting results you desire. The value of a combined procedure often outweighs the sum of its parts, offering the efficiency of a single surgery and recovery, with comprehensive aesthetic improvement.

Our priority at Georgia Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, under the leadership of board-certified Dr. Okoro, is to help you make a confident and informed decision. This means prioritizing your safety, delivering natural-looking results, and ensuring complete transparency regarding your investment. We believe that your comfort and trust in our expertise are just as important as the final cost.

The journey begins with a personalized consultation. This is your opportunity to discuss your aesthetic goals, understand the custom surgical plan, and receive a detailed, all-inclusive quote that reflects your unique needs. We’re here to answer all your questions, address any concerns, and guide you every step of the way.

Ready to explore your options and get a clearer picture of your personalized breast lift and augmentation cost?

Get a personalized cost estimate with our Atlanta Breast Lift Cost Guide