Breast Augmentation
Fuller, more balanced contours — tailored to your body and your goals.
Overview
About Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is the most commonly performed cosmetic surgical procedure in the United States, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). It enhances the size and shape of the breasts using implants or fat transfer, creating fuller, more balanced contours.
Our surgeons take a highly individualized approach to breast augmentation. Every decision — implant type, size, shape, profile, and incision placement — is made based on your unique anatomy, lifestyle, and aesthetic goals. The result should look and feel natural, proportionate to your frame.
We offer both silicone gel and saline implant options, as well as fat transfer augmentation for patients seeking a more modest, natural enhancement without implants. Your surgeon will discuss the advantages and limitations of each option during your consultation.
At a Glance
Procedure Time
1–2 hours
Anesthesia
General anesthesia
Facility
Accredited surgical suite
Recovery
1–2 weeks before returning to work
Implant Options
Silicone gel, saline, or fat transfer
Results
Long-lasting; implants may require replacement over time
Candidacy
Am I a Good Candidate?
The best candidates for breast augmentation are women who are in good health, have fully developed breasts, and have realistic expectations. Augmentation is appropriate for women seeking increased volume, improved symmetry, or restoration of volume lost after pregnancy or weight changes.
You May Be a Good Candidate If You:
- Are dissatisfied with the size or shape of your breasts
- Have breasts that are asymmetric in size or shape
- Have lost breast volume following pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss
- Are in good general health with no active breast disease
- Have fully developed breasts (typically age 18+ for saline, 22+ for silicone per FDA guidelines)
- Are not currently pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have realistic expectations about outcomes and implant longevity
Surgery May Not Be Recommended If You:
- Are currently pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have active breast infection or untreated breast disease
- Have unrealistic expectations about size or appearance
- Are under the FDA-recommended age for silicone implants (22)
- Have significant uncontrolled medical conditions
The Procedure
Implant Options & Surgical Technique
Breast augmentation involves placing an implant either beneath the breast tissue (subglandular) or beneath the pectoral muscle (submuscular/dual-plane). The placement is determined by your body type, the amount of natural breast tissue present, and your desired outcome. Submuscular placement is most commonly recommended as it provides more natural coverage and is associated with lower rates of capsular contracture.
Silicone gel implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel that closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water and can be adjusted slightly in size at the time of surgery. Fat transfer augmentation uses liposuction to harvest fat from another area of your body, which is then purified and injected into the breasts — ideal for patients seeking a modest, natural increase without implants.
Incision options include inframammary (in the fold beneath the breast), periareolar (around the nipple), or transaxillary (in the armpit). Your surgeon will recommend the approach that best suits your anatomy and minimizes visible scarring.
01
Anesthesia
General anesthesia is administered for your comfort throughout the procedure.
02
Incision
An incision is made in the chosen location — inframammary, periareolar, or transaxillary — based on your surgical plan.
03
Pocket Creation
A pocket is created either beneath the breast tissue or beneath the pectoral muscle to accommodate the implant.
04
Implant Placement
The implant is inserted, centered, and positioned for optimal symmetry and natural appearance.
05
Closure
Incisions are closed in layers with fine sutures. A surgical bra is applied.
What to Expect
Recovery Timeline
Days 1–3
Days 1–3
Rest at home. Soreness and tightness in the chest are expected. Surgical bra worn continuously.
Days 4–14
Week 1–2
Most patients return to desk work within 5–7 days. Avoid lifting arms above shoulder height.
Weeks 2–6
Weeks 2–6
Resume light exercise. Avoid strenuous upper body activity and heavy lifting.
Months 1–3
Full Settling
Implants settle into final position. Swelling resolves. Final result visible at 3 months.
Recovery timelines are estimates. Your surgeon will provide a personalized recovery plan during your consultation.
Outcomes
Your Results
Breast augmentation produces immediate, visible results — though the final outcome becomes apparent as swelling resolves and implants settle into position over the first 3 months.
Results are long-lasting, but breast implants are not lifetime devices. The FDA recommends patients with silicone implants undergo MRI screening periodically to check for silent rupture. Implant replacement or removal may be needed over time due to rupture, capsular contracture, or changes in personal preference.
Maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle helps preserve your results. Pregnancy and significant weight changes after surgery may alter the appearance of the breasts.
Informed Consent
Risks & Safety
All surgical procedures carry risk. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) requires that patients receive a thorough discussion of potential risks before consenting to surgery. Your surgeon will review all of the following — and any risks specific to your health history — during your consultation.
Capsular Contracture
Scar tissue that forms around the implant may tighten, causing firmness or distortion. The most common long-term complication.
Implant Rupture
Saline rupture is immediately visible (deflation). Silicone rupture may be silent. Both require implant replacement.
Infection
Rare. May require implant removal if severe. Treated with antibiotics.
Changes in Sensation
Temporary or permanent changes in nipple or breast sensitivity are possible.
Asymmetry
Some degree of asymmetry is normal. Significant asymmetry may require revision.
Implant Malposition
Implants may shift from their intended position over time. Revision surgery may be needed.
BIA-ALCL
A rare type of lymphoma associated with textured implants. Our surgeons use smooth implants to minimize this risk.
Breastfeeding
Most women can breastfeed after augmentation, but some may experience reduced milk supply.
Our commitment to your safety: Our surgeons perform procedures only in our accredited surgical facility, with board-certified anesthesia providers and a trained nursing team. Thorough pre-operative screening and patient selection are the most effective tools for minimizing surgical risk.
Explore More
Related Procedures
Breast Lift
Raises and reshapes sagging breasts — often combined with augmentation for comprehensive results.
Learn MoreBreast Reduction
Reduces overly large breasts to relieve physical discomfort and improve proportion.
Learn MoreBreast Reconstruction
Restores the breast following mastectomy or lumpectomy.
Learn MoreReady to Learn More?
Schedule a private, no-obligation consultation with one of our board-certified surgeons. We will answer every question and create a personalized plan for you.