Breast Augmentation

Surgical Technique

Breast augmentation is performed under general anesthesia through an incision under the breast, around the areola, or in the armpit depending on anatomy and the surgical plan. In many patients, the implant is placed partly under the chest muscle to provide better upper-breast coverage and a natural shape. The implant space is created carefully to control bleeding and reduce infection risk. Implant size, profile, and shape are selected using measurements, anatomy, and 3D imaging from the consultation. The goal is a balanced result that fits the patient's frame rather than simply choosing the largest implant possible.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation is a good fit for healthy patients who want more breast volume, improved shape, or better symmetry. It works best when the breast and nipple position are already acceptable; patients with true drooping may need a breast lift or augmentation with lift. Stable weight and avoiding pregnancy in the near future help make results more predictable.

Recovery

Breast augmentation recovery is usually straightforward. A supportive surgical bra is worn for about three to four weeks. Tightness and soreness are usually most noticeable during the first three to five days, especially when implants are placed partly under the muscle. Many patients return to desk work within five to seven days. Light activity resumes around two weeks, while high-impact exercise and heavy lifting are avoided for about six weeks. Implants soften and settle over three to six months.

Breast Augmentation Risks & Considerations

Breast augmentation risks include capsular contracture, which means scar tissue around the implant tightens or hardens, as well as implant rupture or deflation, implant malposition or rotation, rippling, and changes in nipple sensation. Infection is uncommon but may require additional treatment or implant removal. Breast implants are not lifetime devices, so revision surgery may be needed in the future. FDA guidance recommends periodic imaging for silent silicone implant rupture, starting several years after surgery.

• Capsular contracture (scar tissue tightening around the implant)
• Implant rupture or deflation
• Implant malposition or rotation
• Rippling or implant edge visibility
• Changes in nipple sensation
• Infection
• Need for future revision surgery

Alternatives to Breast Augmentation

If breast volume is low but the breast position is good, augmentation alone may be appropriate. If the nipple and breast tissue sit low, a breast lift or augmentation with lift may be needed because implants alone do not reliably correct true drooping. Fat transfer can add modest volume without implants in selected patients, but it usually provides less projection and size change.

Related Procedures

Related Articles

Medical Sources

• Ten-year results from the Natrelle 410 anatomical form-stable silicone breast implant core studyAesthetic Surgery Journal
• Five-Year Safety Data for More than 55,000 Subjects following Breast Implantation: Comparison of Rare Adverse Event Rates with Silicone Implants versus National Norms and Saline ImplantsPlastic and Reconstructive Surgery