Understanding Breast Augmentation: What You Need to Know Before Surgery

Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures worldwide, helping countless women enhance their confidence and achieve their desired body contours. Whether you’re looking to restore volume after pregnancy, correct asymmetry, or simply achieve a fuller shape, breast augmentation offers highly personalized results. Before deciding if the procedure is right for you, it’s important to understand what it involves, how to prepare, and what to expect from recovery.

What Is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that increases breast size and improves shape using implants or fat transfer. The goal isn’t just to enlarge the breasts, but to create a natural, balanced appearance that complements your body frame.

There are two main approaches:

Breast Implants: Silicone or saline implants are placed either beneath the breast tissue or under the chest muscle. Implants come in various sizes, shapes, and profiles, allowing your surgeon to customize your result.
Fat Transfer Augmentation: This technique uses liposuction to harvest fat from another area of your body—such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks—and injects it into the breasts. It’s ideal for patients seeking a modest, natural enhancement.

Choosing the Right Implant

Selecting the right implant is a collaborative process between you and your plastic surgeon. Factors such as your anatomy, lifestyle, and aesthetic goals all play a role. Here’s a quick overview of your options:

Silicone Implants: Filled with cohesive silicone gel, these implants tend to feel more natural and are less likely to ripple. They are popular among patients who prioritize realistic texture and movement. We use MENTOR and MOTIVA implants.
Saline Implants: Filled with sterile salt water after placement, these implants allow for smaller incisions and can be adjusted slightly during surgery. They’re FDA-approved for women 18 and older.q`
Shape and Profile: Implants come in various profiles (low, moderate, high). Your surgeon will help determine which will best suit your frame and desired look.

The Consultation Process

A detailed consultation is the first step in any successful breast augmentation journey. During this appointment, you will meet with Dr. Renee Gasgarth and Melissa, the Surgical Coordinator to:

Discuss your goals and expectations
Evaluate your breast anatomy and skin quality
Take measurements and photographs
Review implant options and incision techniques
Explain the potential risks, recovery process, and expected outcomes

This is also the time to ask questions and review before-and-after photos of previous patients. A good consultation ensures that both you and your surgeon have a clear understanding of the aesthetic vision.

The Surgical Procedure

Breast augmentation is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes about one to two hours. Your surgeon will make an incision—most commonly in one of three locations:

Inframammary (under the breast crease)
Periareolar (around the nipple)
Transaxillary (in the armpit)

Through the incision, a pocket is created either beneath the breast tissue or under the pectoral muscle, and the implant is inserted. The incision is then closed with sutures, and dressings are applied. Most patients go home the same day.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery after breast augmentation varies from person to person, but most patients can return to light activities within a few days and resume normal routines within two to four weeks. Here are a few general guidelines:

Swelling and soreness are common during the first week and gradually subside.
Supportive garments such as a surgical bra should be worn as directed to minimize swelling and support healing.
Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for at least four to six weeks.
Follow-up visits are essential to ensure proper healing and to monitor your results.

Your surgeon will provide detailed post-operative instructions to help you recover comfortably and safely.

Results and Longevity

You’ll begin to see your new breast shape immediately after surgery, although final results take several weeks as swelling resolves and tissues settle. Modern implants are long-lasting and durable, but they are not considered lifetime devices. Regular check-ups and imaging (like MRI or ultrasound) may be recommended to monitor implant integrity over time.

Is Breast Augmentation Right for You?

Ideal candidates for breast augmentation are individuals who:

Are in good overall health
Have fully developed breasts
Feel their breasts are too small or disproportionate
Have realistic expectations about the results

Whether you’re seeking subtle enhancement or a more dramatic change, a personalized surgical plan designed by a board-certified plastic surgeon can help you achieve beautiful, natural-looking results that align with your goals.

Final Thoughts

Breast augmentation is about more than changing your appearance—it’s about restoring confidence and helping you feel your best in your own body. With advances in implant technology and surgical techniques, today’s procedures are safer and more customizable than ever before. The key is choosing a qualified surgeon who listens carefully, provides honest guidance, and tailors every step to your unique vision.