Surgical procedure
Breast Augmentation
Also known as: Breast Implants
Medically reviewed by Afters Medical Review Board, Board-Certified Specialists
Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries in the United States, designed to enhance breast size, shape, and symmetry. The procedure can use silicone or saline implants placed above or below the chest muscle, or in some cases, a patient's own fat via fat transfer.
About Breast Augmentation
What is breast augmentation?
Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries in the United States, designed to enhance breast size, shape, and symmetry. The procedure can use silicone or saline implants placed above or below the chest muscle, or in some cases, a patient's own fat via fat transfer. Most procedures take 1–2 hours under general anesthesia and are performed on an outpatient basis.
Who is it for?
- Women who want to increase breast size or improve proportions
- Those looking to restore volume lost after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss
- Patients seeking improved symmetry between breasts
- Women who want a fuller, more balanced silhouette
What to expect
During your consultation, your surgeon will discuss implant type (silicone vs. saline), size, shape (round vs. teardrop), profile, and placement. The incision is typically made in the breast fold, around the areola, or in the armpit. Most patients return to desk work within a week and resume full activity at 4–6 weeks.
Customizable size and shapeHigh patient satisfaction ratesMultiple implant optionsOutpatient procedureLong-lasting results
Breast Augmentation by the numbers
300,378 breast augmentation procedures performed in 2022
Making it the most popular cosmetic surgical procedure in the United States
Source: American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) 2022 Statistics
91% patient satisfaction rate
Breast augmentation consistently ranks among the highest satisfaction rates of any cosmetic procedure
Source: ASPS Patient Satisfaction Data
10-20 year average implant lifespan
Modern silicone and saline implants are designed to last over a decade, though they are not considered lifetime devices
Breast Augmentation before & after
Real results from real patients
Before & after photos for breast augmentation are coming soon.
Breast Augmentation cost
National averages and city-by-city pricing
National average
$5,000 – $12,000
Surgeon fee, facility, anesthesia
Breast Augmentation Prices by City
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Recovery timeline
Typical recovery: 1 week
1
Back to desk work
5–7 days
2
Light exercise
2–3 weeks
3
Full activity
4–6 weeks
4
Final results
3–6 months
Light activity in 1 week. Full exercise after 4-6 weeks.
Top breast augmentation specialists
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Breast Augmentation by city
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Breast Augmentation in every city
Browse breast augmentation specialists and pricing in 51 cities across 3 states.
Utah
State overview →California
State overview →Patient guides
Free resources to help you make informed decisions about your procedure.
Frequently asked questions
What is breast augmentation?
Breast Augmentation (also known as Breast Implants) is a cosmetic procedure. Use Afters to compare real results, costs, and find specialists near you.
How much does breast augmentation cost?
National averages typically range from $5,000 to $12,000, but pricing varies by surgeon and location.
How long is recovery for breast augmentation?
Typical recovery is 1 week. See a day-by-day timeline and what to expect.
How do I find a breast augmentation specialist near me?
Start on the Breast Augmentation Near Me page to explore top cities and learn what to look for—then request consultations from specialists in your area.