If you are looking for a way to change the size or shape of your breasts, you may be considering breast augmentation. Year after year, breast augmentation isn’t just one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in Australia — it’s one of the most sought-after procedures worldwide.
According to the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery’s annual report, 1,795,551 breast augmentation procedures were performed in 2019. With so many patients interested in aesthetic breast enhancement, and so many surgeons providing it, the cost of breast augmentation can vary considerably.
Learning about the factors that affect the cost of breast augmentation in Sydney can help you make informed decisions and better prepare for the journey to come.
What Costs Are Involved in Plastic Surgery?
The total amount paid for any surgical procedure is made up of a variety of smaller costs. Whether you’re interested in breast augmentation, facelift, rhinoplasty or any other surgical procedure for the face, breast or body, these are some of the costs that may factor in:
Surgeon
The surgeon’s fee usually includes the entire cost of preoperative care, the surgery and postoperative care (including follow-up visits). The wide range of fees in this category reflects differences in surgeons’ qualifications, experience, expertise in certain procedures, professional recognition, geographic location and popularity.
Anaesthetist
As with surgeon’s fees, anaesthetist’s fees vary based on education, training and experience. General anaesthesia requires more expertise and therefore comes with a higher fee than local anaesthesia. Most local anaesthetics can be administered without an anaesthetist.
Surgeon’s Assistant
An assistant may be necessary if the procedure(s) or the patient’s condition is complex. The assistant surgeon actively supports the primary operating surgeon and is usually trained in the same specialty.
Hospital
Hospital fees differ significantly from facility to facility. Fees are generally higher for facilities in major metropolitan areas and for procedures that require an overnight stay. It is essential to choose an accredited facility with high safety standards and well-trained staff.
Postsurgical Garments
Special garments are recommended following certain surgical procedures to minimise swelling, protect the area and improve aesthetic results. Examples include special bras worn after breast surgeries and compression garments worn after liposuction or abdominoplasty.
Medications
Medications may be prescribed preoperatively and/or postoperatively, including antibiotics, analgesics, anticoagulants and symptom-reducing medications.
How Does the Type of Breast Augmentation Affect the Cost?
Breast augmentation is a highly individualised procedure. In the consultation phase, many decisions are made that influence the ultimate cost of the surgery.
If you opt for a breast augmentation with implants, the type of breast implant you choose will affect the cost of the procedure. Saline-filled implants are the least expensive option, while silicone gel implants tend to be a “medium” option. Structured saline or cohesive gel (“gummy bear”) are the most expensive breast implants.
The shape of the implants is also a factor. Teardrop-shaped implants are usually more expensive than round implants.
If you opt for breast augmentation with fat grafting, the procedure will include two distinct steps: liposuction to harvest fat from one or more areas of your body, then injection of the fat into your breasts. This technique typically costs more than using implants because it takes longer, requires more skill on the part of the surgeon and essentially involves two procedures.
For the most customised outcome, you may decide on a hybrid breast augmentation. This technique combines breast implants with fat grafting for a significant increase in cup size as well as precise contouring and a soft look and feel. Hybrid breast augmentation generally requires the largest financial investment.
How Does the Choice of Surgeon Affect the Cost of Breast Augmentation in Sydney?
Women seeking breast augmentation in Sydney must consider the qualifications of their surgeon. In this city and throughout Australia, any doctor with a basic medical degree is legally allowed to perform surgery. This means that any doctor can advertise themselves as a ‘cosmetic surgeon’ — even if they do not have specialist training in plastic surgery.
A Specialist Plastic Surgeon is a Commonwealth Government accredited plastic surgeon who has completed specialised training in reconstructive and cosmetic surgery. The title of Specialist Plastic Surgeon can only be used by RACS-approved surgeons in the recognised specialty of plastic surgery.
One of the most critical things you’re paying for with any cosmetic surgery is the expertise of your surgeon. The best plastic surgeons in Sydney are educated by well-respected institutions, fellowship-trained, members of professional organisations and exceptionally experienced in their field. This is not to say that the most expensive surgeons are always the best, but it is common to see surgeons set fees that align with their level of expertise. The value of a good Specialist Plastic Surgeon, with the skill set you need and an aesthetic sensibility you like, is priceless.
Meet With Dr Ellis Choy to Discuss Breast Augmentation
Dr Ellis Choy performs a variety of breast procedures, including breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction and breast fat grafting. Please call 02 8962 9388 or book a consultation online to learn more about the cost of breast augmentation in Sydney and Coffs Harbour.
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