*Model

Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation with implants is one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures available, and it can do wonders for enhancing your body contours. Patients who would like to add volume and definition to the breasts can see remarkable results that look natural and beautiful with breast augmentation. Dr. Semira Bayati, our board-certified plastic surgeon, can meet with you for an initial consultation to discuss the type and size of implants that will best meet your goals.

To learn more or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Bayati to discuss breast augmentation, please contact us today.

Quick Facts About Breast Augmentation

  • Breast augmentation, often referred to as breast enlargement, involves the placement of silicone or saline breast implants to enhance size and fullness in the breasts. This procedure can also improve breast shape and aesthetic balance.
  • The American Society of Plastic Surgeons® consistently cites breast augmentation as one of the top 5 most popular cosmetic surgery procedures. In its 2023 annual statistics report1, breast augmentation was ranked at #2 on the list.
  • Breast augmentation can be advantageous for women who have long wished for a larger breast size, as well as those who have experienced diminished breast volume after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss. While breast augmentation can be very effective as a standalone procedure, it is also an option that many women choose to include in a comprehensive Mommy Makeover.
  • Today’s breast implants, both silicone and saline varieties, are highly advanced and offer many individuals the ability to achieve results that appear both beautiful and natural.
  • As breast augmentation requires major surgery, general anesthesia will be necessary. However, this treatment can typically be performed as an outpatient without the need for an overnight hospital stay.
  • Many patients are able to resume normal daily activities about five to seven days following breast augmentation surgery. There will be some residual swelling after the procedure; however, this side effect is very common and should fade during the healing process.
  • Dr. Semira Bayati is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has successfully performed breast augmentation procedures many times throughout the course of her career. In fact, breast augmentation is a special focus of Dr. Bayati’s practice. Dr. Bayati takes time with each patient to thoroughly assess their goals, explain all aspects of the procedure, and develop a uniquely customized treatment plan designed to produce the best possible results.

Who Is a Candidate for Breast Augmentation With Implants?

Breast augmentation with implants, or breast enlargement, can give your breasts additional volume and contour while making them appear more proportionate to the rest of your body. The procedure often helps women who are:

  • Dissatisfied with their current breast size
  • Suffer from asymmetrical breasts
  • Looking to restore volume in breasts that have reduced in size after pregnancy
  • Looking to reconstruct the breasts after mastectomy or injury

Breast implants come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and types. Depending on your preferences and what is best for your needs, Dr. Bayati will recommend one or more implant types as well as placement and incision options. During your initial consultation, she will discuss all aspects of the breast augmentation procedure with you, including risks and benefits, and address any questions or concerns you may have.

Breast Augmentation Before and After Photos

View Gallery

Will I Need a Breast Lift with My Augmentation?

A breast lift is designed to lift the breasts, trim away excess tissue, and reposition the nipples. Breast augmentation with lift, also referred to as a “breast lift with implants,” enhances breast volume and shape while addressing signs of sagging or lax skin. If you are experiencing breast ptosis—the medical term for sagging—a breast lift allows you to reposition the breasts to a heightened, more youthful position. Patients who want to enhance the fullness and shape of their breasts while simultaneously reducing signs of ptosis may find that a breast augmentation with lift is an ideal treatment option for their needs and cosmetic goals. Dr. Bayati can combine these two popular procedures to deliver optimal results.

Not everyone who is a good candidate for breast augmentation will be suitable for a breast lift; therefore, a consultation can help determine if performing a breast augmentation with lift is ideal for your treatment plan.

Breast Augmentation and a Mommy Makeover

Breast augmentation can be part of a comprehensive Mommy Makeover procedure to help women address a number of aesthetic concerns that occur after pregnancy and raising children. Mommy Makeovers are customized procedures that can combine several treatment selections to address your specific needs and goals. Breast lift, breast augmentation, tummy tuck surgery, liposuction, and other options can serve to improve contours, reduce pockets of excess fat, and give the body a beautifully rejuvenated appearance.

Read more about Mommy Makeover procedures.

What Are My Breast Implant Options?

As mentioned, implants come in a broad array of sizes, shapes, and types. In addition to silicone and saline, implants can be round or shaped and smooth or textured. Furthermore, the projection (or profile) of the implant can also help you achieve your desired shape. These options make it possible to customize breast augmentation to best suit your unique needs, body shape, and cosmetic goals.

Types

Silicone

The most popular option at our practice, silicone breast implants can provide a result that both looks and feels more like natural breast tissue. Modern silicone implants, which come in round and teardrop-shaped styles, are comprised of form-stable silicone gel that resists leaking. Rupture is rare, but if it occurs, you may not realize when it happens since the interior material should remain within the implant. As a result, we recommend patients with silicone implants receive occasional MRIs for best health. Silicone implants are FDA-approved in women 22 years of age or older, or for women of any age after mastectomy.

Form-Stable “Gummy Bear” Implants

As noted above, the form-stable breast implants are among the latest types of silicone implants available for breast augmentation. Often referred to as “gummy bear” or “cohesive gel” implants, these options are designed to yield the most natural look and feel possible. Due to the implants’ thicker consistency, form-stable implants are often better able to retain their shape, reducing the chances of rippling.

Saline

Saline breast implants are filled with a saltwater solution (saline) that is contained by a silicone shell. In the rare event that a saline implant ruptures, the solution should be harmlessly absorbed by the body. Some women prefer these types of implants for this reason; however, they may not look as natural as silicone in some cases. Another benefit of saline implants is that they can be inserted empty and filled after placement, making it possible to achieve better breast proportion for patients who naturally have asymmetry. Saline implants are FDA-approved for women 18 years of age or older, or women of any age for breast reconstruction procedures.

Shape and Feel

Smooth

Smooth breast implants typically feel softer than others, and often have a lower chance of causing a rippling effect. The material of the outer shell is also typically thinner in smooth implants when compared to other varieties.

Textured

Textured breast implants can reduce the potential for the implant to move around inside the breast pocket. The textured material on the outer shell of the implant should make it better able to adhere to surrounding tissue, ultimately helping it maintain its position.

Round

Round breast implants are some of the most popular, and they can be the ideal choice for patients with certain breast and body types. Round-shaped implants can typically move with more freedom while inside the breast pocket, leading to more natural movement of the breasts. These implants can also produce a very natural and full breast appearance with beautiful results.

Teardrop

Anatomically-shaped implants (in the shape of a teardrop) offer a number of advantages. They are typically made with a textured surface to further minimize any risk of rotation inside the breast pocket, which could lead to an unnatural appearance. For the right patient, the teardrop shape of anatomical implants can create results that look very natural, producing a fullness at the bottom of the breast that gradually tapers off toward the top. Anatomically-shaped implants can also be ideal options for women with significantly low breast volume, offering results that yield a fuller, more sculpted look.

Ultimately, the type, shape, and feel of your breast implants will be decided based on your individual needs and goals, in addition to your unique body type. Dr. Bayati will go over all of your options with you and show you various types of implants, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of how they may benefit you. While there are many varieties to choose from, Dr. Bayati will make sure you are fully educated on the ideal options for your needs so you can make the best choice possible.

What Are the Incision Options?

Breast implants can be placed in the body using a variety of techniques, and the right approach for your needs and goals will depend on your individual treatment plan. Dr. Bayati typically uses one of three methods: transaxillary (through an incision in the armpit), periareolar (through an incision created in the areola, the pigmented area around the nipple), or inframammary (through an incision created in the fold where the breast meets the body). The transaxillary incision is only available for use with saline implants, as these can be filled after placement. Advanced techniques make it possible to create a very fine incision that typically heals extremely well. Topical treatments and laser skin resurfacing technology can often further reduce the appearance of the scars if desired.

  • Transaxillary
  • Periareolar
  • Inframammary

What Are the Breast Implant Placement Options?

Breast implants can be placed above or below the muscle, and Dr. Bayati will discuss the benefits of each approach with you during your initial consultation. Very slender women with minimal existing breast tissue may particularly benefit from under-the-muscle placement, which usually offers a more natural-looking result. And women with significant breast tissue, especially if there is some ptosis (droop), may prefer over-the-muscle, as this approach may provide a small “lifting” effect.

We understand that there are a lot of options and a lot of decisions to make. We’re here to help. Dr. Bayati can provide the information and the guidance you need to make the best possible decision for your individual goals.

What Is the Breast Augmentation Procedure Like?

Dr. Bayati will have some pre-operative instructions for you to follow, which should include when to stop taking certain types of medications. You should also cease smoking at least two weeks before the operation. Breast augmentation with implants typically begins with an incision in one of three locations, as described earlier. These can be made either in the underside of the breast, in the armpit, or around the areola (the dark-pigmented region surrounding the nipple). The implants are placed either beneath the chest muscle or directly behind the breast tissue. Dr. Bayati will go over possible incision locations and implant placement with you at your initial consultation and explain the advantages and disadvantages of each. Dr. Bayati is highly adept at making any residual scarring from incisions as discreet as possible. The entire breast augmentation procedure typically takes about one to two hours, and is usually performed under general anesthesia. This procedure can be performed as an outpatient.

What Is Breast Augmentation Recovery Like?

Some degree of pain and discomfort after breast augmentation can be expected; however, this can be managed with medication. Patients can also expect some swelling, numbness, and/or a burning sensation in the nipples after surgery, but this should dissipate as your breasts continue to heal during recovery. Normal daily routines can typically be resumed about five to seven days after the procedure. Patients are cautioned to avoid strenuous activity and direct stimulation to the breasts for about six to eight weeks after surgery.

With breast implants, Dr. Bayati can give your breasts a larger, more sensual appearance that can not only be a boost to your bustline, but also to your self-esteem!

How Noticeable Are Breast Augmentation Scars?

The noticeability of scars from breast augmentation procedures is dependent on which technique Dr. Bayati will perform when placing the implants. Transaxillary (through the armpit) and periareolar (through the area surrounding the nipple) techniques often yield the least noticeable scars. A transaxillary incision typically results in an easily concealed scar since it is under the arm; a periareolar incision often yields a scar that can blend in well with the region surrounding the nipple. While an inframammary technique involves an incision in the crease where the breast meets the chest, Dr. Bayati works diligently to ensure the best possible healing of the incision so any residual scarring is as light as possible. It is also important to note that scars typically diminish in appearance over time, and there are treatments available to further minimize the signs of them following the procedure. Post-operative instructions that include details on how to care for the incisions for proper healing will also be provided.

How Long Do Breast Implants Last?

Breast implants can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, but their lifespan varies from patient to patient. The natural aging process, weight loss or gain, pregnancy, and other factors can affect the appearance of your breasts even after surgery. Complications, such as an implant rupture, capsular contracture, or implant rippling, may warrant an implant exchange. It is very important for breast augmentation patients to undergo routine breast exams and remain observant for any changes in their breast implants. Ruptures and leaks in saline implants are usually noticeable; however, complications may not be easily identifiable in silicone implants. For this reason, we recommend regular self-exams and physician exams to help detect any problems and determine if it is time to exchange or remove breast implants. Revision breast augmentation can be the ideal solution for women who would like to exchange their breast implants, remove existing implants without replacement, address complications, or fix the outcome of a previous breast surgery.

How Much Does Breast Augmentation Cost?

The price of breast augmentation surgery is dependent on a number of factors relating to each patient’s customized treatment plan, and is therefore different for everyone. Components such as the surgeon’s fee, anesthesiology and surgical facility fees, the type of implants placed, the technique utilized, and other factors will be taken into account in the overall cost of breast augmentation surgery. Once your breast augmentation treatment plan is developed during the initial consultation, a member of our team will calculate a total cost estimate and talk with you about any questions you may have. Our practice accepts a comprehensive variety of payment options. We also work with two reputable plastic surgery financing companies that offer a vast selection of convenient payment plans for patients who qualify. You can be assured that you will be provided with an up-front estimate of all expenses related to your treatment so that you know what to expect.

Choosing a Breast Augmentation Surgeon

It is highly important to choose the right breast augmentation surgeon in order to receive top-quality care and safe treatment. Researching your surgeon’s background and credentials can help you decide whether he or she is competent to perform your surgery. Surgeons certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, such as Dr. Bayati, are often optimal choices since they have completed extensive training and passed comprehensive examinations covering all plastic surgery procedures. In addition, before-and-after breast augmentation photos are great resources to view. They can give you an idea of the results you can expect from a specific surgeon. Before committing to treatment, make certain that you feel confident and comfortable in your surgeon’s care. Make sure that they listen to your concerns and fully understand your treatment goals. Your surgeon should always be realistic and speak openly about what results can be achieved given your unique circumstances.

Additional Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Augmentation

Can I breastfeed with breast implants?

Breast augmentation should not affect a woman’s ability to breastfeed as long as she was already able to breastfeed before having the implants placed (some individuals are naturally unable to breastfeed). With that in mind, it is very important that you communicate your wishes regarding future breastfeeding to Dr. Bayati before the procedure. With this information, Dr. Bayati can design the treatment plan with an eye toward utilizing techniques that will not interfere with the production of milk after the breast implants are placed.

How much do breast implants weigh?

The specific weight of breast implants is based on a number of factors, including the material the implant is made of and the weight of the solution inside. The outer shell of the breast implant, whether saline or silicone, is typically very light. The saline solution or silicone gel inside the implant can add approximately one to two pounds of weight (in many cases, the total is less than that, even in larger implants). Ultimately, the added weight of breast implants is typically such a small amount that it rarely has much of an effect on overall weight gain.

What do breast implants feel like?

One of Dr. Bayati’s top priorities in breast augmentation procedures is to create results that both look and feel natural. Silicone breast implants are well-known for feeling the most like natural breast tissue; however, saline implants can produce a remarkably natural feeling as well. Factors such as the precise placement of the breast implants, the existing amount of fat in the breasts, and the size of the implants will all have some effect on how the breasts will feel after breast augmentation. Rest assured that Dr. Bayati will take all of these factors into account during the treatment planning stages to maximize the likelihood that the results will feel as natural as possible.

How should I sleep after breast augmentation?

It’s important to be sure that you are not placing an excessive amount of pressure on the breasts following your breast augmentation procedure, so you may need to make some adjustments to how you sleep for a few weeks after surgery. Dr. Bayati usually recommends that patients sleep only on their backs as the breasts continue to heal, and it may be advised to prop the back up with some extra pillows, as well. Dr. Bayati can talk more with you about the best sleeping positions after breast augmentation once your treatment plan is in place.

How painful is breast augmentation?

Breast augmentation involves major surgery; therefore, there will be some degree of pain and discomfort following the procedure as the breasts heal. Fortunately, medication can be prescribed to control pain during the recovery process. The most severe level of discomfort usually occurs within the first two to three days, and then gradually dissipates over time. Each patient’s experience is somewhat different depending on the specific breast augmentation techniques performed and the individual’s unique anatomical response during recovery. Dr. Bayati will provide you with specific post-operative instructions that can help you manage discomfort and achieve the smoothest, most effective recovery possible.

What type of bra should I wear after breast augmentation?

In some cases, patients may be supplied with a special support bra to be worn for a specified number of weeks after breast augmentation; in others, it may be recommended that patients refrain from wearing a bra for a certain amount of time. Dr. Bayati will advise you on the best course of action based on your needs.

Medical Reference: /h3>
1 American Society of Plastic Surgeons® 2023 Statistics Report

Schedule a Consultation

Contact Dr. Bayati for more details on breast augmentation, or to schedule a consultation.

Email Us