Breast Augmentation

Am I a Good Candidate?

Women who want to increase the size of their breasts by one or more cup sizes are ideal for breast augmentation. Those looking to restore the fullness of their breasts after pregnancy or nursing are also excellent candidates. Additionally, patients undergo breast augmentation to correct the symmetry of the breasts for a more even appearance.

Patients must be in good overall health with no underlying serious illnesses that could hinder their healing. Smokers must quit six weeks before surgery to prevent complications and avoid a prolonged recovery.

Your Breast Augmentation Consultation

Your breast augmentation consultation will involve an in-depth conversation with one of our renowned and board-certified plastic surgeons: Stephen T. Greenberg, MD, FACS; Jason M. Weissler, MD; Stephanie A. Cooper, MD; or Christopher L. Johnson, MD, MSc, FACS. During this initial appointment, you will be asked to talk about your cosmetic goals and expected outcome and will be invited to ask any questions you may have.

Your surgeon will also perform a physical examination of your breasts and body during your consultation. Photographs may be taken as a reference. He or she will also thoroughly review your medical history to assess any risk factors, including underlying illnesses, allergies, and current medications.

Options for implant shape, size, type, texture, and profile will all be discussed to determine the best breast implants for you. Your surgeon will create a plan tailored to your goals, and then a date will be set for your breast augmentation procedure.

The Procedure

Breast augmentation surgery can take a few hours to complete and will be performed under general anesthesia. After the anesthesia has taken effect, an incision will be created. The incision may be made under the crease of the breast (the inframammary incision), along the edge of the areola (the periareolar incision), or in the armpit (the transaxillary incision).

Next, a pocket will be created under the glandular breast tissue or in front of the pectoral muscle. The implant will be placed into this pocket. Once the implant is properly positioned, the incision will be closed. After the other implant has been placed symmetrically, the chest will be bandaged.

The Breast Augmentation Recovery Process

Your recovery period after breast augmentation can take several days to a few weeks. Swelling, bruising, and pain are to be expected following your procedure. Pain medications will be prescribed to alleviate the discomfort, as well as antibiotics to reduce the chance of infection.
A surgical bra must be worn during the first week to minimize swelling. Making sure to wear bras without underwire is key, since underwire can damage the tissues while they are still healing.

You will not be able to get back to your daily routine right away. However, you are encouraged to perform light movements to facilitate good blood flow.

It will be necessary to take time off from work during breast augmentation recovery. You may need six to eight weeks before you are able to lift weights, play sports, or take part in other physically strenuous activities.

How Much Does a Breast Augmentation Cost?

The cost of breast augmentation surgery largely depends on the patient’s specific needs. The overall price may be impacted by the complexity of the surgery, exact techniques used, cost of the breast implants, and the anesthesia fee.