A breast lift usually costs between $3,500 and $6,000, including an anesthesia fee of $1,000 to $1,500, a hospital fee of $500 to $1,500 and a surgeon's fee. The breast lift cost also will vary from patient to patient, and a lift on smaller breasts, which usually require fewer incisions, will be slightly less expensive. For that reason, a doctor will need an in-office consultation to provide an accurate quote.
The surgeon makes incisions in the skin, usually on the crease under the breast, around the areola and along the underside of the breast. After removing excess skin, the doctor will move the areola and nipple to a new, higher position, pull the skin down to reshape the breast, and then stitch the incisions. Usually, the procedure requires general anesthesia. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons[1] provides a detailed description of the surgery.
Additional costs:
After surgery, you will probably have to pay a few hundred dollars for prescribed pain medication, as well as a surgical bra, that will be worn for a few days, and support bras that will be worn for a few months after the operation.
If there are complications, or if the patient is dissatisfied with the result, additional surgery might cost as much as, or more, than the initial procedure. Also, a breast lift does not last forever, because of the effects of aging and gravity, and might eventually need to be redone.
Discounts:
As with most plastic surgery, getting more than one procedure done at one time can save you money in anesthesia and facility fees. Prices will vary by surgeon, but it is always best to look for the most qualified doctor rather than the lowest price. Also, some doctors will offer discounts to patients who agree to give testimonials or allow the doctor to use their before and after photos.
Shopping for a breast lift:
Tip: If you plan to have children - or more children - then you should wait until after your final child is born before having a breast lift. Pregnancy and breastfeeding will likely cause your breasts to sag again.
Tip: Look for a board-certified plastic surgeon with plenty of experience performing breast surgery. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons[2] provides a free referral service. When you meet with a surgeon, discuss your expectations to find out whether they are realistic. Also discuss risks and disadvantages. One major disadvantage of the breast lift procedure is that it inevitably leaves scars, which can be red, bumpy and very noticeable. Also, the surgery can cause numbness, tingling and loss of sensation in the breasts and nipples, which usually, but not always, disappear over time.
Material on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult your physician or pharmacist regarding medications or medical procedures.
7 Lesser-Known Discounts for the 50+ Crowd As they age, members of the Baby Boomer generation don't like to admit that they're senior citizens, but they love getting discounts. It's kind of a quandary, because some of the best deals available are reduced prices for older folks. || Posted October 21 2013
7 Ways to Stretch Your Reduced Food Budget End of the year budgets are tight for everyone, especially in this economy.It's especially hard for the millions of Americans who depend on government programs like food stamps to help make ends meet. || Posted November 11 2013
CostHelper is based in Silicon Valley and provides consumers with unbiased price information about thousands of goods and services. Our writers are experienced journalists who adhere to our strict editorial ethics policy.
CostHelper Community
UTI urgent care visit Paid: 147.00 Visit was $135. Antibiotics was $12. Waiting for four hours in the waiting room and the visit was quick... [more]
Spanish Medical Interpreter Paid: 150.00 I worked with SynShyne Services out of Monroe, NC. They were so worth the price! Professional, friendly, accurate, great attitude and always on time. I recieved an itemized report after every contact and a user friendly invoice weekly... [more]
Skin prick allergy test Paid: 573.00 Took my 9 yr. old in after an allergic reaction to eggs. Several panels for nuts, fish & top 8 allergens. Sure enough, egg came up. Got a script for epinephrine and left... [more]