Breast Implants for Fuller, Firmer Breasts
There are virtually countless reasons why breast augmentation is a longstanding leading plastic surgery procedure. While many women simply want to increase their breast size because their natural breasts are smaller than they would like, others pursue breast augmentation as a way of restoring the youthful shape of their breasts after age, weight change or pregnancy has caused unwanted changes. The experts at Westlake Plastic Surgery are here to help you realize exquisite breast augmentation results designed to your unique anatomy and preferences and deliver the best breast augmentation Austin has to offer.
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The most popular procedure in America
Realize your ideal size and shape.
Also known as augmentation mammoplasty, breast augmentation is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the size, shape, and symmetry of the breasts. This procedure involves the use of breast implants—either silicone or saline—or, in some cases, fat transfer, to achieve the desired aesthetic goals. Whether you’re looking to increase bust size, restore lost volume, or improve the balance and contour of your breasts, breast augmentation can help you achieve your ideal look.
At Westlake Plastic Surgery, Dr. Robert Caridi uses the latest surgical techniques and advanced implant materials to create natural-looking results that are tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy and preferences. The process begins with a comprehensive consultation, during which Dr. Caridi will thoroughly assess your body shape, discuss your aesthetic goals, and evaluate the areas of your breasts that you wish to enhance. Together, you will determine the best approach, including the type, size, and placement of the implants, to ensure that your results align perfectly with your vision.
Breast augmentation offers numerous benefits, making it one of the most sought-after cosmetic procedures
By enhancing the size, shape, and symmetry of your breasts, this procedure can significantly improve your overall body contour and boost your self-confidence. Here are some of the key benefits of breast augmentation:
Considering a Breast Augmentation?
Proportional and natural are the buzzwords these days. Patients are very familiar with what they don’t want to happen — breasts that are too large, fake in appearance, balloon-like, unnatural, hard, “stuck on“ or not proportional. Cleavage is desirable, natural superior fullness is wonderful, and a sustainable size over the long haul is smart. Women prefer that the first thing someone sees when they walk into a room is not their breasts. We also have Austin breast augmentation patients who specifically seek out results that are not mainstream. Some prefer the “fake look” with larger rounded breasts. Having performed thousands of breast enhancements, our surgeon stresses that every patient is different in her goals and that we can work with almost all patients to safely and predictably reach her goals. There are many size choices between “go big or go home” and “I just want a little fullness.”
Breast augmentation is an excellent option for women who are looking to enhance their appearance and boost their confidence. However, the best candidates for this procedure share certain characteristics that make them ideal for successful outcomes. You might be a good candidate for breast augmentation if:
Expert Care in Austin
Most plastic surgeons offer breast enhancement. It’s important to select a surgeon who has an excellent reputation and vast experience with all forms of breast procedures. An excellent surgeon can also help those who have had previous work done and are looking for corrections and modifications. If you have had previous breast work and you are looking for improvements, take a moment and visit our breast revision center. Our vast selection of before-and-after “patient stories” speak volumes about our practice’s experience and the quality of our outcomes. If you are considering breast augmentation, we strongly encourage you to do your homework, choose your surgeon wisely, and avoid “impulse buying.” As common as the procedure is nowadays, it is still a major surgical procedure that requires serious considerations. Complications can happen, and you want to be in the best hands. Never assume that breast enhancement surgery is a simple routine endeavor. When it comes to your breasts, you always want the best.
What You Need to Know
The consultation process at Westlake Plastic Surgery is the most important time in your journey. This is when you and your surgeon will get to know one another and select the right implant for you. This means a lot of conversation and education. Our nurses and surgeon will spend the time necessary to try on the various breast implant sizers and determine what works best for you, your body, and your personality. There is no pressure to decide then; we insist on a return visit, at which time we will do it all over again to make sure that we get it right. My goal is to ensure that we don’t go too big or too small—we want it to be just the perfect fit. There are several patient imaging systems available today that are designed to offer simulated results of surgery. Although these systems are novel and fun, there is nothing better and more realistic than standing in front of the mirror with your breast implant size on to know, in real-time, how your results will appear. We recommend that you visit several surgeons before you proceed with surgery. It really helps to learn firsthand the differences among surgeons and the quality of their practices. You want to put yourself in the best hands, always. Great results and great care come from great doctors. Please take a moment and read our surgeon’s article on how to get the most from your consultation.
You have options - ask your surgeon
Breast implants come in two primary types: silicone and saline.
| Compare | Silicone | Saline |
|---|---|---|
| Feel | Best | Good |
| Rippling | Less | More |
| Contracture | Same | Same |
| Incision | Larger | Smaller |
| Longevity | Same | Same |
| Deflation | No | Yes |
| Patient Preference | 80% | 20% |
| Price | $$$ | $$ |
| Do They Cause Disease? | No | No |
| Is Size Adjustable | No | Yes |
Implants can be placed in different positions depending on your anatomy and aesthetic goals:
Choosing the right implant size is crucial for achieving the desired look. Implant sizes are measured in cubic centimeters (cc), and the right size for you depends on your body frame, the amount of natural breast tissue, and your aesthetic goals. During your consultation, you’ll have the opportunity to try on different sizes to see which suits your body and preferences best.
This technique involves using your body’s own fat, harvested from areas like the abdomen or thighs, to enhance breast size. While fat transfer can provide a modest increase in size and improve breast shape, it is often combined with implants for more significant augmentation.
There are several options for the location of incisions during breast augmentation:
Shaped implants, often referred to as "gummy bear" or "anatomic" implants, have a teardrop shape that mimics the natural slope of the breast. These implants are firmer and designed to maintain their shape over time. However, they can rotate within the breast pocket, which may result in an unnatural appearance.
Implant profile refers to how much the implant projects from the chest wall:
Breast augmentation is a relatively straightforward surgical procedure designed to enhance the size and shape of your breasts through the use of implants or fat transfer. The procedure typically lasts between one to two hours, depending on the specifics of your case, such as the type of implants used, their placement, and whether additional procedures like a breast lift are performed simultaneously.
Here’s what you can expect during your breast augmentation procedure at Westlake Plastic Surgery:
fast recovery, lasting results
After a breast augmentation Austin patients typically need about two or three days to recover. After this time, you will be off narcotics, and you can take anti-inflammatories such as Motrin or Tylenol. There will be discomfort for several weeks afterward that gets better every day. You should avoid any major exercise for the first week and then gradually work back to a full schedule. Avoid heavy lifting (kids, weights) for about two weeks after surgery. Adding a breast lift or breast reduction to your procedure does not add much to your recovery. Most of the discomfort associated with the procedure is related to the placement of the implants below the muscle, which stretches the muscle and feels tight. The smaller the implant used, the less stretching of the muscle and, therefore, less discomfort.
It will take some time for your breasts to “settle” after a breast augmentation. The breast implants sit up high relative to the breast, with the nipple-areola complex on the low side. After a few weeks, the muscle and tissues relax and stretch, allowing the breast implant to drop, soften, and create a more natural appearance with a teardrop shape. It is actually quite exciting to see this occur! A breast band may be recommended for patients who need help lowering their implants and reducing excess upper breast fullness.
| Recovery Time: | 2-3 days |
| Average Procedure Time: | 45 minutes |
| Post-Op Follow-Up: | 2 weeks, 2 months, and 1 year |
| Recovery Location: | Out-Patient |
improve the appearance of narrow or poorly shaped breasts
The process of a breast enhancement does not end simply after your implant is inserted. After many years of practice and thousands of breast enhancements, we have clearly seen the benefit of breast molding or shaping during the postoperative period. We are actually able to use the breast implant to help mold or shape the new breast. This is how we can create cleavage when breasts are widely separated and how we can improve the appearance of narrow or poorly shaped asymmetrical breasts. It requires effort and some muscle so if there is someone who can help you during this time all the better. Molding should start about two weeks after surgery and is typically finished by six weeks. It should be done 2 or 3 times a day for 20 to 30 minutes.
In those rare patients who have perfectly symmetrical breasts on an even rib framework, not much work needs to be done. For the vast majority of patients, however, moving the implant in one direction or another will expand the tissues of the chest and breast and help to create a great shape. Cleavage is typically not made during breast enhancement surgery; it’s made after surgery by moving the implants towards the midline and expanding the tissues in the middle of the chest. Trying to make two differently shaped breasts look even is a combination of artwork by your cosmetic surgeon and a lot of hard work by the patient afterward. It should be noted that patients who elect for the placement of “gummy bear” or “anatomic” implants should NOT move their implants to shape the breast.
Breast augmentation is designed to enhance your breast size and shape, resulting in a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing appearance. The outcome of the procedure can significantly improve your self-confidence and how you feel about your body. Here’s what you can expect from your breast augmentation results:
Breast implants are designed to be durable and long-lasting, but they are not considered lifetime devices. The longevity of your breast implants can vary based on several factors, including the type of implant, your body’s response, and your lifestyle.
On average, breast implants can last between 10 to 20 years. However, many women enjoy their implants for much longer without any issues. It’s important to understand that all implants will eventually need to be replaced or removed due to natural wear and tear or changes in your body over time.
– These are 35 year old breast implants that were removed totally intact, showing the durability of many modern breast implants
When considering a breast augmentation, it's important to understand that the cost can vary depending on several factors. Each surgery is personalized to meet the unique needs and goals of the patient. Here's an informative breakdown of the factors that influence the cost of a breast augmentation:
Materials and Technique: The choice of materials, such as silicone or saline implants, and the surgical technique used can impact the cost. Silicone implants tend to be a bit more expensive than saline, and the surgical approach may also affect pricing.
Combination Procedures: Some patients may opt for combination procedures, like a breast lift alongside augmentation. These combinations can affect the overall cost.
Surgical Fees: The surgeon's fees, which encompass their expertise and experience, contribute to the overall cost. Highly experienced surgeons might charge more.
Anesthetic Costs: The type of anesthesia used during the procedure will influence the cost. General anesthesia is typically more expensive than local anesthesia.
Facility Fee: The cost includes the use of the surgical facility, which varies based on location and the facility's amenities.
Geographic Location: The cost of breast augmentation can significantly vary by geographic location. Procedures in larger cities or areas with a higher cost of living may be more expensive than in smaller towns.
It's crucial to have a detailed consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to get an accurate estimate tailored to your specific needs and goals. They will assess your case and provide a breakdown of the costs involved, helping you understand what's included in the price. Remember that while cost is an essential factor, choosing a highly skilled and reputable surgeon is equally important to ensure a safe and successful procedure.
Make Your Dreams a Reality
What are you waiting for? If you are ready to realize the contours of your dreams, schedule your consultation to begin designing your ideal look. Westlake Plastic Surgery is the premier provider of breast augmentation surgery in Austin. Don't wait!
Get StartedYes, wearing a bra after breast augmentation is essential for maintaining your results and ensuring long-term breast health. A well-fitted bra provides support, helps minimize sagging due to gravity, and keeps your implants in the optimal position. While the specific type of bra you should wear may vary based on the stage of recovery and your surgeon's recommendations, consistent use of a supportive bra is crucial.
For more detailed information on the importance of wearing a bra after breast augmentation, you can read Dr. Caridi's blog post here.
Breast implant complications, while uncommon, can occur and typically fall into two categories: early and late complications. Early complications may include infection or hematoma (a collection of blood around the implant), which may require additional treatment or surgery. Late complications can occur months or years after surgery and may include issues such as capsular contracture (the hardening of scar tissue around the implant) or implant rupture.
If a saline implant ruptures, the implant deflates, and the saline is harmlessly absorbed by the body. In contrast, silicone implant ruptures may not be immediately noticeable, as the silicone gel typically remains within the implant capsule. Regular follow-ups with your surgeon and monitoring through imaging can help detect and manage these complications effectively.
A breast augmentation alone is not likely to interfere with a woman’s ability to breastfeed. It’s important to remember that fifteen percent of all women are not able to breastfeed in general, regardless of whether or not they had a breast enhancement. It is hard to find good scientific data to implicate breastfeeding problems with breast implants.
A breast lift is considered when the breast is saggy, the nipple-areola complex is low on the face of the breast, and if the skin of the breast is quite lax. Experience is needed to know when to lift and when not to. Some patients will realize a beautiful result with an implant alone, while others may need an implant and a breast lift at the same time. It’s always possible to lift the breast as a secondary procedure if you think it is needed. An experienced surgeon can really help here as they know what will work best for you. Read my blog “How do I know if I need a breast lift?” Although a breast implant alone can provide some “lift” to a breast and take up some of the lax skin, we have seen many patients who wanted to place an enormous implant for the lift, but the result was overly large breasts that sit low and are not attractive.
Another common error is to perform a breast augmentation and a lift only around the areola simultaneously (Benelli procedure). This often results in funky-looking breasts with really big (stretched) areolas and poor scars. Women have concerns about a lift because it means breast scars. However, a beautifully shaped breast with a scar looks better than one that lacks fullness but has no scar. This has been proven to experienced surgeons time and time again. Women are concerned about how their partners will react to the scars, but this issue is often overblown. Men generally do not have a problem with a scar on the breast if the breast is shaped beautifully. They tend to see the “big picture” and not the details: a deflated breast with nipples pointing down is not ideal, while a breast that is full with nipples pointing to the sky reveals youth, vitality, and beauty.
Breast implants are the devices used in breast augmentation, a surgical procedure. While the term "breast implants" refers specifically to the silicone or saline devices placed in the breast, "breast augmentation" refers to the overall procedure that enhances the size and shape of the breasts using these implants or, in some cases, fat transfer.
A breast augmentation focuses on increasing the size and improving the shape of the breasts through implants or fat transfer. It does not include a breast lift, which is a separate procedure designed to raise and firm sagging breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue. However, many women opt to combine a breast lift with augmentation to achieve both enhanced volume and a more youthful breast position in a single surgery.
When it comes to improving your life, there’s no time like the present. The decisions you make today about your skin health, your body, and your beauty will impact you for the rest of your life. For more than three decades, Westlake Plastic Surgery has made the future brighter and more beautiful for patients just like you. Schedule your consultation today to begin your aesthetic journey at Westlake Plastic Surgery.
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