What is involved in a breast augmentation?

Breast augmentation involves placement of an implant beneath or over the chest muscle to increase breast size.  This will balance the proportion between your breast and your body. Placement of the implants can be through an incision around the lower half of the nipple or the breast crease.  The implants can be either silicone or saline.   Both silicone and saline implants are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).  Saline implants are filled with saltwater during surgery and this amount can be adjusted during surgery.  These implants can feel a bit firmer than silicone implants.  Silicone implants have a pre-filled amount of cohesive gel when placed during surgery and they have a more natural feel.

Who is a good candidate?

Good candidates are women who demonstrate:

• Small breast size for body shape
• size discrepancy of breasts
• Breasts that have become smaller and lost their firmness after having children
• Non-snokers or have ceased smoking two months prior to the procedure
• Overall good health

What to expect during your consultation.

Dr. Stephenson will evaluate your overall health and more specifically evaluate your current breast size and breast shape.  Additionally, Dr. Stephenson will evaluate your underlying bony anatomy of your chest, the presence of any breast masses (if any), the laxity of skin of the breasts (if any) and your body shape in proportion to your breasts.  Finally, he will take measurements of your breasts to help determine the best implant size.  This evaluation will help him to develop your individual plan. He will also review the risks involved in breast augmentation surgery. Dr. Stephenson encourages you to discuss any areas of your appearance that concern you as well what you hope to accomplish with surgery.  This will help him understand your goals/expectations and whether these expectations can be realistically achieved.

Breast Augmentation Recovery

At the completion of your breast augmentation procedure, you will be placed in a surgical dressing that may include a support bra or wrap.  Swelling is expected after breast augmentation surgery. The swelling and bruising will start to resolve during the first week or two after surgery, although this will vary between patients. Usually patients may return to work within three to five days.  Most patients can resume modest activity in two weeks.  Complete recovery occurs in about four to six weeks.

View 3D Animations For Breast Enhancement Treatment

Saline Implants Areola Incision

Saline Implants Under Breast Incision

Silicone Implants Areola Incision

Silicone Implants Under Breast Incision

BREAST SURGERY CREDENTIALS

Credentials matter. Dr. Stephenson is certified by American Board of Plastic Surgery. This is the only medical specialty board for aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgery recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS).

Dr. Stephenson will be happy to discuss how a breast augmentation may be beneficial to you.  To schedule a consultation with Dr. Stephenson at Signature Plastic Surgery, call (770) 466-4700.