Breast Augmentation
Conveniently located to serve The Woodlands, Houston, and Shenandoah
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What Is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is a cosmetic surgery designed to enhance the size, shape, and overall appearance of the breasts. Using either silicone or saline implants, this procedure can add volume, improve symmetry, and create a more proportionate silhouette. Many individuals choose breast augmentation to restore lost breast volume after pregnancy or weight loss, achieve a more balanced figure, or enhance their natural curves.
Our plastic surgeon in The Woodlands customizes each breast augmentation procedure to align with your unique goals. She carefully considers factors like implant type, size, placement, and incision location to create results that look natural and compliment your body’s natural curves.
Breast Augmentation at a Glance
- Sedation: General anesthesia
- Potential Benefits: A fuller, more proportionate, and more symmetrical bustline
- Potential Risks: Swelling, sensitivity, burning, implant “wear and tear” (i.e. leaks or ruptures); (less commonly) scarring, infection, capsular contracture, abnormal bleeding
- Length of Procedure: Approximately two hours
- Recovery: About one week before regular work can be resumed; approximately eight weeks before strenuous exercise can be continued
- Cost: Varies upon specifics of procedure
Who Is a Candidate for Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation can help enhance body proportions and improve breast aesthetics in various ways, not limited to:
- Increasing breast size for individuals who feel their natural bust is too small
- Restoring lost volume due to pregnancy, weight loss, or aging
- Improving symmetry when breasts have noticeable differences in size or shape
- Reconstructing the breast after mastectomy or surgery for breast cancer
- Addressing congenital conditions, trauma, or hereditary factors that affect breast shape
Additionally, women are generally advised to wait until their breasts have fully developed before undergoing augmentation. The FDA has approved saline implants for patients 18 years and older and silicone implants for those 22 and older; however, both saline or silicone implants may be considered for younger patients pursuing a breast reconstruction.
While breast augmentation can boost confidence and enhance your overall appearance, it’s important to have realistic expectations. Ideal candidates for breast augmentation are those seeking enhancement rather than perfection. That being said, if you are in good health and have realistic goals for the procedure, you may be eligible for breast augmentation.
Complementary Procedures to Breast Augmentation
In many cases, Dr. Lahiri is able to combine breast augmentation with other procedures for a more comprehensive rejuvenation. One of the most common complementary procedures is a breast lift (or mastopexy); when paired with the placement of implants, a breast lift can simultaneously address sagging and provide volume.
Depending on your unique needs, other surgeries – such as liposuction, a tummy tuck, or even facial contouring options like facelift and eyelid surgery –can also be incorporated into your treatment. During your consultation, Dr. Lahiri can evaluate your goals and recommend the best approach to achieve your ideal aesthetic.
What Types of Breast Implants Are Available?
Breast implants consist of a durable silicone shell filled with either saline (sterile saltwater) or silicone gel. Their size is measured in cubic centimeters (ccs) based on the volume of the filler. Dr. Lahiri offers smooth round implants, and patients can choose from a variety of profiles (including moderate high profile extra, high profile extra, and high profile boost).
Several factors influence the selection of breast implants, including breast anatomy, body type, and desired enhancement. Additional considerations such as lifestyle, personal preferences, and your plastic surgeon’s expert recommendations will also play a role in determining the ideal implant for you.
It is important to understand that breast implants are not designed to last a lifetime, and revision or replacement surgery may be necessary in the future. Routine check-ups for breast health and implant integrity are essential whether you have saline or silicone implants.
What Does the Breast Augmentation Procedure Involve?
During your consultation, Dr. Lahiri will assess your health, discuss the best surgical techniques for your needs, and provide pre-operative guidelines. A mammogram may be recommended for baseline breast health. You will review consent forms outlining the procedure and potential risks, and a waiting period may be required before surgery.
To perform breast augmentation, Dr. Lahiri typically administers general anesthesia, makes incisions under the areola, and places implants beneath the chest muscle (this technique is known as the submuscular method). Once the implants are positioned, Dr. Lahiri will close the incisions and, if needed, apply a gauze bandage.
What Is Recovery Like After Breast Augmentation?
Following a breast augmentation, Dr. Lahiri usually recommends taking one week off work to allow the body to heal and waiting four to six weeks before resuming strenuous exercise.
In the first few days, gauze dressings will be removed, and you may need to wear a surgical bra for support. Some nipple sensitivity or a mild burning sensation is common but should gradually subside; moreover, any discomfort is generally manageable with medication. Stitches are usually taken out within 7 to 10 days (though swelling can take several weeks to fully resolve). While scars may appear firm and pink initially, they should soften and fade over time. Routine mammograms should continue, with adjustments made for accurate imaging.
Throughout your recovery, Dr. Lahiri will provide personalized guidance to encourage a smooth healing process. If you have any questions or concerns during your breast augmentation recovery, we encourage you to reach out.
What Are the Typical Results of Breast Augmentation?
For many women, breast augmentation is a transformative experience, inspiring a boost in confidence and satisfaction with their appearance. That said, even if your implants feel and look great, regular follow-ups with Dr. Lahiri help ensure their integrity over time. Additionally, whether or not you have implants, practicing monthly self-exams and scheduling routine breast screenings are essential for your overall health.
Ultimately, the success of your surgery is measured by how you feel about your results. If breast augmentation has helped you achieve your aesthetic goals, then your decision was the right one!
Are Any Risks Associated with Breast Augmentation?
While breast augmentation is generally safe when performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon, the procedure –like any major surgery – does come with certain risks. Some of these potential complications include:
Additionally, as discussed above, the implants themselves are not designed to be lifetime devices. Both saline and silicone implants are susceptible to ruptures or leaks; while a saline rupture is typically noticeable right away, silicone implants are prone to “silent ruptures.” For this reason, be sure to regularly attend ultrasound screenings to monitor the condition of your implants and comprehensive health.
How Much Does Breast Augmentation Cost?
At our practice in The Woodlands, pricing for breast augmentation is contingent upon:
- Surgeon’s fees
- Pre- or post-operative tests and evaluations
- Hospital or surgical facility fees
- Anesthesia expenses
- The technique(s) used
- Other procedures incorporated
- Post-operative garments, medications, etc.
Dr. Lahiri strives to make breast augmentation as accessible as possible. We offer CareCredit® financing for eligible patients, allowing for flexible payment plans that fit your budget. If you have any questions about pricing or financing options, we will be happy to assist you.
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To learn more about breast augmentation, we welcome you to contact Lahiri Plastic Surgery today!
