Breast augmentation is known as the most common cosmetic surgical procedure in the United States. With the ability to change breast size, enhance the appearance of the breasts, and improve the proportional appearance of the body in relation to the chest, breast augmentation proves to be a beneficial procedure for many patients.
At Hamptons Plastic Surgery, Dr. Tracy Pfeifer leads a team of dedicated professionals who are prepared to help patients achieve their aesthetic goals. As a double board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Pfeifer proudly offers breast augmentation to patients who want to improve the appearance of how their breasts look.
What Is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is a surgery used to increase the size of the breasts. This procedure often involves placing breast implants underneath the breast tissue. People may undergo breast augmentation for the following reasons:
- To increase self-confidence
- To restore lost volume, primarily due to significant weight loss, pregnancy, or breastfeeding
- To achieve a more youthful, plump, refreshed appearance
- To reconstruct the breast after a mastectomy or breast cancer
- To correct asymmetry and balance between both breasts
Scheduling a consultation with Dr. Pfeifer will be the best way to determine which type of breast implants can help you address your concerns and improve the appearance of your breasts.
Types of Breast Augmentation
Different types of breast implants can be used during the breast augmentation procedure. Depending on your goals and comfort level, the type of implant you use during your breast augmentation can be customized and tailored to your needs.
Dr. Pfeifer draws from years of experience in breast surgery to provide each patient with high-quality, personalized treatments. She may use one of the following types of implants during your procedure:
Saline breast implants: Filled with sterile salt water, these implants give a firm shape and natural feel to your breasts.
Structured saline breast implants: These implants are also filled with sterile salt water, but they contain an additional inner structure aimed at making the implant feel as natural as possible.
Silicone breast implants: Filled with silicone gel, this material mimics the feeling of natural breast tissue. FDA-approved for patients above the age of 22, these implants will not collapse during leakage.
Gummy bear breast implants: Also known as form-stable implants, the silicone gel within these implants is thicker than normal silicone gel implants. They are also shaped to have more projection at the bottom while tapering at the top to mimic the natural curvature of a breast.
Round breast implants: These implants can help achieve a fuller appearance by adding volume and projection to the chest area. Because these implants are round, the risk of rotation is lessened.
Smooth breast implants: These implants are the softest-feeling implants compared to the rest. Because they are flexible and adaptable to the breast implant pocket, they provide more natural movement.
Textured breast implants: These implants are designed to develop scar tissue that will stick to the implant. This decreases the risk of implant movement and repositioning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Is a Candidate for Breast Augmentation?
Ideal candidates for breast augmentation should be at least 18 years of age and looking to improve the appearance of their breasts. Patients should be in overall good health, non-smokers, and at or near their ideal weight. If you have breast cancer, an abnormal mammogram, or currently have an active infection, you may not be a suitable candidate for this procedure.
Are There Any Risks with a Breast Augmentation?
Like any other surgical procedure, breast augmentation may come with several risks. These risks can include:
- Reactions to anesthesia
- Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma
- Excessive bleeding
- Changes in nipple or breast sensation
- Hematoma
- Implant leakage or rupture
- Asymmetry
- Chronic pain
- Scarring
- The need for revision surgery
Although these risks are rare, Dr. Pfeifer prioritizes patient comfort and safety through each step of your breast augmentation journey. If you experience any of the above complications during your recovery, contact us immediately.
What Is Recovery Like After a Breast Augmentation?
Following your procedure, you'll likely experience grogginess and fatigue from anesthesia. Swelling, bruising, and slight discomfort are normal.
Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activity, or athletics during the first few weeks of recovery. You may be advised to wear a surgical bra or compression garment to support your breasts and minimize swelling.
How Long Do the Results from a Breast Augmentation Last?
A breast implant is expected to last about ten years. After this time, we recommend patients schedule a check-up with Dr. Pfeifer to determine if their implants need to be replaced. It is also important to monitor your implants and receive regular health check-ups as the years go by to monitor the possibility of any implant complications.
What Are the Benefits of Breast Augmentation?
Whatever the motivation, many women experience a profound boost to their self-esteem following a breast augmentation procedure. Feeling more self-confident in their physical appearance also extends to their mental outlook. The key to unlocking these benefits is your surgeon's expertise and understanding. Dr. Pfeifer's extensive experience and specialized training ensure that your breast augmentation goals are met with satisfaction.
Schedule a Consultation at Hamptons Plastic Surgery
If you’re interested in breast augmentation or would like to find out if the procedure is right for you, contact us at Hamptons Plastic Surgery today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Tracy Pfeifer.