The Skinny
Average Recovery
4 weeks
Permanence
Permanent
Application
Implant
Surgical
Yes
Cost
$3800 - $12000
The Specifics
What is a breast augmentation with implants?
A breast augmentation with implants is a plastic surgery procedure to create fuller, larger, and more symmetric breasts. Candidates may pursue a breast implant procedure due to small breasts secondary to aging, weight loss, pregnancy, or genetics.The Anatomy of the Female Breast
Augmentation surgeries vary and are customizable to the individual. Silicone implants, saline implants, or a hybrid implant type can be customized to a specific implant shape and implant size. The implant can be placed over or under the pectoral muscle. Additionally, the incision location may be along the areola, under the breast, through the underarm, and even through the navel.
The most appropriate breast enhancement options for an individual candidate can be determined through a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon. Some may choose to pursue a breast lift as well for further breast enhancement and a more natural appearance.
What cosmetic concerns does a breast augmentation with implants procedure treat?
1. Breast Shape & Size: Highly customizable, a breast implant surgery places implants into breast tissue for improvements to the natural breast size, shape, volume, and symmetry. 2. Mommy Makeover: Postpartum breast changes can be addressed via implants to restore breast volume. 3. MTF Gender Confirmation: Transfeminine top surgery include the creation of characteristic female breasts, areola, and nipples. Implants may be used to enhance the size and shape of the breasts.Who is the ideal candidate for a breast augmentation with implants procedure?
The ideal candidate for a breast augmentation with implants is in generally good health with fully developed breasts and is seeking improved breast appearance. Breast augmentation with implants is not recommended for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or under 18 years of age.What is the average recovery associated with a breast augmentation with implants procedure?
Most patients experience about four weeks of acute recovery following a breast augmentation with implants procedure. A supportive bra will be worn continuously after the procedure for three weeks at which time patients can transition to sports bras and then regular bras after six weeks. Most patients return to work after one week. Strenuous activity and submersion in water should be avoided for three weeks. Sauna, steam rooms, and excessive heat will need to be avoided for six weeks.To better understand the healing and downtime associated with the procedure, check out our complete guide to breast augmentation recovery.
What are the potential side effects of a breast augmentation with implants procedure?
Possible side effects following a breast augmentation with implants procedure include asymmetry, breast/nipple pain, thinning of the skin, tissue atrophy, capsular contracture, implant rupture, extrusion, seroma, displacement, changes in sensation, and palpable implant.What can someone expect from the results of a breast augmentation with implants procedure?
The results of a breast augmentation with implants procedure are immediate and permanent improvements to the appearance of the breasts. The results will last a lifetime assuming there are no complications with implants.What is the average cost of a breast augmentation with implants procedure?
A breast augmentation with implants can cost anywhere from $3,800 to $12,000. The actual cost of a breast augmentation with implants is dependent upon location, board certified plastic surgeon, and length and involvement of the plastic surgery. Learn more in our complete guide to the cost of a breast augmentation.Pros
- Increase Fullness
- Increase Projection
- Improve Balance Of Hip Contours
- Self-image
- Self-confidence
Cons
- May Need To Replace
- Difficult Mammogram
Invasiveness Score
Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.
What to Expect
Breast augmentation surgery with implants allows women to enhance their busts with a variety of options for size, material, and placement for complete customization to each individual patient. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after a breast augmentation with implants.
Before Treatment
- Stop taking blood thinning medications 2 weeks prior
- Stop smoking 4 weeks before and after surgery
- No alcohol 1 week before surgery
- Stop using self tanning products
During the Consultation
During the preoperative consultation, discuss with your surgeon:
- Implant material
- Implant placement
- Implant size
- Implant projection
- Incision location
During Treatment
- General or local anesthesia with sedation
- Incisions will be made as per the preoperative plan
- Implant will be inserted
- Incisions will be closed with sutures and adhesive or surgical tape
Immediately After Treatment
- Swelling and discomfort
- Tightness and changes in sensation
1-2 Weeks After Treatment
- Wear postoperative support bra 24/7
- Showering permitted after 2 days
- Refrain from blood thinning medications for 10 days
- Return to work after 1 week
3-6 Weeks After Treatment and Beyond
- No strenuous activity or heavy lifting for 3 weeks
- Do not swim or submerge incisions for 3 weeks
- No saunas, steam baths, and extreme heat for 6 weeks
- Transition to sports bra after 3 weeks
- Transition to regular bras after 6 weeks
Result Notes
- Noticeable immediately after surgery
- Can last a lifetime if no complications
The Takeaway
A breast augmentation with implants is a cosmetic surgery to create natural looking enhancements to breast tissue. This type of breast augmentation surgery creates natural results with silicone gel implants, saline implants, or a hybrid material.
