Breast Augmentation is gaining popularity as each year’s advances in medicine make the procedure safer and less invasive. With nearly 350,000 breast augmentations performed in the US alone, women are taking control of the look of their curves by changing size, and shape. or balancing disproportionate breasts.
If you’re considering breast augmentation surgery, you’ll want to know everything that’s involved and what to expect. At eSSe Plastic Surgery, our breast augmentations are performed by Dr. Tracey Stokes who has performed countless breast surgeries and will help you meet your individual goals.
A consultation with our doctor is the first step to getting started. Schedule a complimentary consultation, come in and we’ll discuss your goals regarding the best size and shape for your body type.
What Is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is a procedure that is performed to increase breast size or to make the breasts more symmetrical. By inserting breast implants filled with silicone or saline, we can help you achieve your aesthetic goals whether you are looking for full and rounded breasts or natural-looking breasts with more subtle volume.
What Can a Breast Augmentation Achieve?
Increased Breast Size
For patients who have smaller breasts, breast augmentation can help them achieve their desired volume. Implants come in many different sizes, allowing patients to choose a size that fits what they have in mind. Breast implants can be used to subtly increase volume or to create a more augmented look.
Improved Breast Shape
Breast implants can be used to change the shape of the breasts as well as give them more volume. Breast implants come in different shapes so you can choose between tear-drop-shaped breasts or breasts that are more rounded at the top.
Improved Breast Symmetry
If you struggle to find bras that fit because your breasts are two different sizes, this can be resolved through breast augmentation. We can use different-sized implants in each breast or only use one implant depending on what is recommended for your unique situation
Breast Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction is the use of breast implants to reconstruct breasts following a mastectomy. By using special techniques, we help women who have been through breast cancer or breast injury to have beautiful and natural-looking breasts again.
Breast Augmentation Before and After
What Happens During a Breast Augmentation?
During a breast augmentation, your surgeon will put you under anesthesia and then make an incision. The size and location of the incision will depend on what you and your doctor decide as well as what type of implant you are getting. A cavity will be made for the implant and then it will be inserted.
Typically an implant is inserted either behind the breast tissue or behind the chest muscle. Breast implants can be placed in different positions and come in various shapes, sizes, and materials. You’ll discuss all of your options with your doctor ahead of time.
Once the implant is in place and is filled to the correct volume (if a saline implant), your surgeon will close the incision and wrap the area in bandages. Then you will rest in a recovery room before being discharged.
Our breast augmentation procedures are performed in the hospital ambulatory surgery suite where you are safe and monitored by board-certified anesthesiologists. The procedure usually takes two hours.
What Types of Breast Implants Are Available?
Saline Implants
Saline implants start as empty silicone shells. Once they are in the body, they are filled with a sterile saltwater solution. This type of implant can usually be inserted using a smaller incision since they are filled after being placed in the body. Saline implants can often result in the most augmented look which is desirable for patients who want a bigger change. Saline implants also prevent silent rupture because any rupture of the silicone shell will be immediately noticeable because of the instant deflation of the breast.
Silicone Implants
Silicone implants are filled with silicone gel. This gel is made to feel similar to regular breast tissue which can make for an augmentation that looks and feels more natural. Silicone implants come in so many different shapes, sizes, and profiles that it can be overwhelming. However, at our practice, we make sure you find the right option for you with our consultations.
Gummy Bear Implants
Gummy bear implants are a specific type of silicone implant that has a more cohesive interior. The silicone on the inside has a texture similar to a gummy bear, which is where it gets its name. These implants hold their shape regardless of your body position and if they rupture, the cohesive gel will stay in place. Gummy bear implants are firm but still soft to the touch.
Extra Large Implants
At our practice, we are able to help women who want larger breasts achieve their goals. We use several different techniques to achieve extra-large implants including multiple surgeries that increase implant size and tissue expanders. If you are interested in extra large implants that are 800cc or higher, you can discuss your options with us in a consultation.
Additional Breast Implant Options
Size
One of the most personal decisions when planning your breast augmentation is selecting the right implant size. Choosing a size involves collaboration between you and your surgeon, considering factors such as your body frame and aesthetic goals. Implant sizes are measured in cubic centimeters (cc). Small implants can range from around 150-300cc, medium implants from 300-400cc, and large implants from 400-600cc or more.
Profile
The profile of your breast implant refers to how much the implant projects forward from the chest wall. The profile can range from low to high, and each has its benefits depending on your natural breast shape, your body’s frame, and how you want your silhouette to look after surgery. Higher profiles create more projection with a narrower base, which may be ideal for certain body types, while a wider base with less projection can look more natural for others. Keep in mind that implants with different profiles can have the same volume, so you and your surgeon will need to consider both size and profile when making your decision.
Shape
Breast implants come in two general shapes: round and teardrop. Round implants provide equal fullness at the top and bottom of the breast, which can create a more prominent look that many prefer. Teardrop-shaped implants mimic the natural slope of the breast, with more volume at the bottom. Depending on your desired outcome, we’ll help you choose a shape that enhances your natural beauty and works with your anatomy.
Texture
The texture of the implant’s surface is another aspect to consider. Textured implants have a slightly rough surface, which can help the implant stay in place by encouraging the tissue to adhere to it. Smooth implants can move more freely in the breast pocket, allowing a more natural feel with certain body movements. We’ll explain the advantages of each and help you decide which texture aligns with your preferences.
Cohesiveness
The cohesiveness of an implant refers to the firmness of the silicone gel inside. Implants with more cohesive gel maintain their shape better, feel firmer, and keep their shape in case of rupture. Some patients prefer the structured look of a more cohesive implant. Less cohesive implants, while still holding shape, offer a softer, more natural feel.
Incision Locations for Breast Implants
- Inframammary Incision: This incision is made along the natural crease underneath the breast. It is a popular choice because it allows the surgeon excellent visibility during the procedure and the scar is easily hidden in the fold of the breast.
- Periareolar Incision: Placed around the edge of the areola, this incision offers a discreet scar since it blends with the darker skin of the areola. It also provides good access for precise implant placement.
- Transaxillary Incision: This incision is made in the armpit, leaving no visible scar on the breast itself. While it offers a scar-free breast appearance, it requires a more complex approach for implant placement and is not commonly used.
- Transumbilical Incision (TUBA): The incision is made near the belly button, and the implant is inserted through a tunnel leading to the breast. This method leaves no visible scars on the breast but is not typically used due to its technical difficulty.
What Happens After Breast Augmentation Surgery?
Besides looking gorgeous, your breasts will be sore, bruised, and swollen due to the stretching of the skin and the incisions. We advise our patients not to do any heavy lifting following the procedure. Before you’re able to break out the sexy bras, you’ll need to wear a surgical bra for a few weeks. Typically, you’ll be back to work within a week and back to your normal routine within a few weeks after surgery. Depending on the type of surgery performed, we may advise you to stay away from certain exercises for up to six months post-surgery.
Breast Lift and Augmentation
If you have breasts that are sagging and also look deflated or lacking in volume, we can solve both problems with a breast lift and augmentation. An augmentation will restore lost volume in the breasts while a breast lift will lift the tissue up and raise the nipple-areola complex into a better position. During a breast lift, we make an incision at the base of the breast in the crease, and sometimes up to the areola to remove excess tissue. During this process, we can also place implants before closing the incisions. This combination can address many of the changes that come with aging, weight fluctuations, or pregnancy while combining recovery times.
How to Prepare for Breast Augmentation
Set Up a Comfortable Recovery Space
You should set aside time before your surgery to prepare your recovery area. Choose a location near a bathroom, and stock it with essentials like pillows to support your upper body, blankets, water, and snacks that are easy to reach. This way, you’ll be able to avoid excessive movement, especially in the first few days. Add things to keep you entertained, like a tablet, magazines, or books to help you relax.
Arrange for Transportation and Assistance
After your breast surgery, you’ll need someone to drive you home and stay with you during the first 24-48 hours. This support is helpful for daily tasks since you will need to avoid lifting, bending, or reaching while you’re healing. Simple movements can feel challenging right after surgery, so having assistance with meal prep, changing clothes, or getting in and out of bed can make a big difference. Knowing you have help allows you to follow post-op instructions more easily and prioritize rest without worry.
Pick Up Prescriptions
Consider picking up any medications prescribed by your doctor, such as pain relievers, antibiotics, or anti-nausea tablets, before your surgery day. Keeping these ready in your recovery area means you won’t have to run errands post-surgery which will give you more time to rest. Be sure to read the instructions and have everything you need to manage discomfort as you start to heal.
Clear Your Schedule for Recovery
Taking a break from work, childcare, and physical activities for the first week or two is important. Each person’s recovery timeline can vary, so giving yourself time to rest without commitments lets you focus fully on healing.
Expected Recovery Timeline After Breast Augmentation
- Day 1-3: During the initial recovery phase, you may feel soreness, tightness, and some swelling in the chest area. Rest is essential, and you’ll likely rely on prescribed pain medications. It’s best to avoid any lifting or arm movement during this period but make sure to walk a little to keep your blood flowing.
- Week 1: Many patients can return to light activities around this time, but strenuous activities and heavy lifting are still off-limits. Swelling and bruising may still be present but will start to decrease. During this time, you’ll have a follow-up appointment or two to check on your progress.
- Weeks 2-3: Soreness continues to decrease, and you may feel more comfortable moving around. Many patients return to work, depending on the physical demands of their job. Light exercise, like short walks, are usually okay if approved by your doctor, but you should still avoid any upper-body workouts.
- Weeks 4-6 and Beyond: By the end of this period, much of the swelling and bruising will have subsided and you’ll see initial results. By this stage, you should be able to resume all activities, including more intense workouts, with your doctor’s approval. Your breasts will start to settle into their final position and feel more natural.
FAQs About Breast Augmentation
Will I Have a Scar After Breast Augmentation?
Yes, you will have a scar after breast enlargement surgery, but we take care to place incisions in discreet locations and to make them as small as is reasonable. Scars are often hidden in the natural folds of the body, such as under the breast or around the areola. Over time, with proper care, these scars typically fade and become less noticeable.
How Long Do Breast Implants Last?
Breast implants do not last a lifetime, but most can last 10 to 15 years or longer. The need for replacement can vary depending on factors such as implant type and individual changes in your body over time. Routine check-ups can help monitor your implants to ensure everything is as it should be.
Will I Need MRIs After Breast Augmentation?
If you have silicone implants, it’s recommended to have MRIs periodically to ensure the implant shell is intact. The FDA suggests having your first MRI three years after breast augmentation surgery, with additional scans every two years after that.
What Is the Difference Between Over-the-Muscle and Under-the-Muscle Placement?
Over-the-muscle placement positions the implant above the chest muscle, offering a shorter recovery time, and is often ideal for women with more natural breast tissue who desire a rounder, fuller look. Under-the-muscle placement, where the implant is positioned beneath the chest muscle, is typically recommended for women with less natural breast tissue, as it can create a more natural contour and reduce the chance of visible rippling. Each method has distinct advantages based on your anatomy and desired outcome, and we will work with you to determine which option best suits your goals.
Who Makes a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation?
Overall Health
Being in good health is essential for a smooth recovery after breast surgery. Candidates should have no significant medical conditions that could complicate surgery or healing. We’ll review your medical history and perform lab tests to make sure there are no underlying health issues that could affect your procedure or recovery.
Non-Smoker or Willing to Quit
Smoking affects blood circulation, which can hinder healing and increase the risk of complications. If you’re a smoker, we’ll ask you to stop at least a few weeks before and after surgery to promote optimal healing. Quitting or pausing smoking during this time can make a meaningful difference in your recovery and results.
Stable Weight
Maintaining a stable weight is important because significant weight fluctuations can impact the shape and appearance of your breasts. If you’ve recently had changes in weight or are planning a major weight shift, it’s best to wait until your weight is steady to promote lasting results from your breast augmentation.
Realistic Expectations
It’s helpful to have a clear idea of what breast augmentation can achieve for you. We encourage you to have realistic expectations and understand that while the procedure can enhance your breast size and shape, it won’t completely change your body or self-image. We’re here to discuss your goals and help you envision results that align with them.
Breast Development Completed
Candidates for breast augmentation should have fully developed breasts. This usually means that you are at least 18 years old for saline implants and 22 years old for silicone implants, though age requirements can vary based on individual development. Complete breast development ensures that the results remain consistent as your body changes over time.
Good Skin Elasticity
Your skin’s elasticity plays a role in how well it can accommodate implants and adjust to a new shape. Firm, elastic skin helps support the implant and enhances the overall look of the augmentation. If skin elasticity is a concern, we can discuss options that may still achieve your desired results.
How Are Extra Large Breast Implant Surgeries Performed?
Extra large breast implant surgeries involve careful planning to safely increase breast size. At eSSe Plastic Surgery, we offer silicone implants up to 800cc and tissue expanders up to 1000cc. To accommodate these larger sizes, we may use tissue expanders to gradually stretch the existing breast tissue, promoting proper blood flow and minimizing complications. Some patients opt for multiple surgeries, each spaced a few months apart, to incrementally increase implant size.
The Benefits of Breast Augmentation at eSSE Plastic Surgery
- Accommodations for All Women: We offer a safe and inclusive environment for women of all faiths, including an all-female staff for Muslim and Orthodox Jewish women.
- Fluent in English, French, and Spanish: We speak English, French, and Spanish, promoting clear communication and personalized care throughout your breast augmentation experience.
- Inclusive Care: We are committed to providing compassionate care for all, including the LGBTQIA+ community, making every patient feel respected and valued.
- An Artist’s Eye for the Female Form: We combine technical expertise with artistic insight to create natural-looking results that beautifully enhance your unique body.
- Deeper Relationship Between Doctor and Patient: We focus on building a strong, trusting relationship with personalized care that aligns with your aesthetic goals and overall well-being.
Breast Augmentation Surgeries in Ft. Lauderdale, FL
If you are interested in breast augmentation surgery in Ft. Lauderdale and you want to know if you are a good candidate, reach out to us today. At eSSe Plastic Surgery, we have many different options that can augment your breasts, restore symmetry, and improve their shape. Call us or book a consultation online.
