What is Breast Augmentation?
Also known as augmentation mammoplasty, breast augmentation is a meticulously planned surgical procedure intended to enhance the size and shape of your breast. By using breast implants or fat transfer, the surgery can restore volume lost from weight changes or hormonal shifts, create improved symmetry, and refine the natural contour—all customized to your body’s needs.
Expert Video Insights
Watch Dr. Shikha talk about specific details, recovery information, and patient experiences through these informative videos
Types of Breast Implants
Our board-certified plastic surgeon offers a variety of breast implants to match your anatomy and aesthetic goals, ensuring that each option is discussed in detail during your consultation:
- Saline Implants: Filled with sterile salt water to deliver a consistent shape and firmness.
- Silicone Implants: Contain silicone gel that closely resembles the natural feel of tissue.
- Gummy Bear Implants: Form-stable implants designed to maintain their shape even if the outer shell is compromised.
- Round Implants: Ideal for creating enhanced fullness in the upper portion of the breast.
- Anatomical Implants: Ergonomically designed to mimic the natural curvature of the breast with a tapered upper profile.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
During the procedure, a discreet incision is made in one of several strategic locations—such as along the areola edge (periareolar), in the inframammary fold, or via a transaxillary approach—to minimize visible scarring. Once a pocket is created either beneath the pectoral muscle or directly behind the breast tissue, the selected breast implants are placed. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and typically lasts between 1-2 hours, with most patients able to return home the same day.
Recovery and Results
Recovery following breast augmentation usually involves a few weeks of managing temporary soreness, swelling, and bruising. A supportive surgical bra or compression garment is recommended to aid healing and reduce swelling. While many patients resume daily activities within 1-2 weeks, a gradual return to exercise is generally advised after 4-6 weeks. Although initial results are visible immediately, the final aesthetic outcome continues to evolve over several months as swelling subsides and implants settle into place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ideal candidates are those in good physical health with fully developed breast tissue who have realistic expectations regarding surgical outcomes. A comprehensive consultation will review your health history and aesthetic goals to determine if breast augmentation is the right choice for you.
Breast implants are not lifetime devices; many patients enjoy satisfactory results for 10-20 years or more. Regular follow-ups and imaging studies are recommended to monitor implant integrity and address any concerns promptly.
Many individuals with breast implants successfully breastfeed. Since different surgical techniques can have varying impacts on lactation, it is important to discuss your future breastfeeding plans during your consultation to choose the most appropriate method.
Like any surgery, breast augmentation carries risks such as infection, bleeding, changes in nipple or skin sensation, implant leakage or rupture, capsular contracture, and the potential need for revision surgery. A detailed discussion of these risks will be provided during your consultation, ensuring you have all the necessary information before proceeding.
Scars are minimized by placing incisions in inconspicuous areas. The visibility of scars depends on factors like the incision location, your individual healing process, and adherence to post-operative care guidelines. Over time, most scars fade significantly and can be well concealed by clothing.