Breast augmentation surgery is a popular procedure that can help improve confidence by enhancing the size and shape of the breasts. In fact, many patients report that the procedure was life-changing, significantly improving their quality of life. In addition to added confidence, breast augmentation is a way to repair or reshape the breasts after mastectomies or other health conditions. Whatever the reason for your interest in this surgery, the entire team at our Nashville plastic surgery center is here to help you achieve your goals. Board-certified cosmetic surgeon, Dr. DeLozier, combines the latest medical technology with expertise and experience to consistently deliver natural-looking breast enhancements in all shapes and sizes.
Breast augmentation (also called augmentation mammoplasty or “boob job”), is a cosmetic surgery that modifies the shape and enlarges the size of the breasts. This treatment reshapes the breast contour by adding volume to increase fullness and altering breast projection for more lift. This breast surgery is accomplished using either silicone or saline implants, both of which offer their own benefits (see below).
Many factors influence the decision to have breast enhancement surgery. Some people are unhappy with the shape of their breasts. Others have recently lost weight and want to add fullness back to their breasts. Some women are looking for better symmetry, while others simply want more cleavage. Breast augmentation is also a popular choice for women who have undergone mastectomies after breast cancer. Whatever your reason for wanting larger breasts, we will gently guide you through the process and help you achieve the shape you've always wanted.
Most patients who go through breast augmentation surgery are extremely satisfied with the results. You can expect your procedure to last 10-20 years, depending on your lifestyle, genetics, and the breast implant type you choose. Most people recover fully in about 6–8 weeks.
While some get confused with the procedures, a breast augmentation and breast lift are actually two different procedures with two different goals. Breast augmentation adds an implant to enlarge the breasts, while a breast lift simply improves the placement of the breasts by removing excess tissue and tightening the skin. Both procedures provide a new contour and aesthetic appeal and are often performed together.
If you are considering a breast augmentation procedure to increase your breast shape and size, there are two types of breast implants: saline-filled or silicone gel-filled. Both have an outer silicone casing, however, saline implants are filled with sterile salt water, while silicone implants are made with a silicone gel.
What kind of breast implant is better? Saline and silicone breast implants are both considered safe and have the same lifespan of 10–20 years. The primary difference between saline and silicone implants is the way that they feel. A silicone implant has a softer, more natural breast feel because of the gel, whereas a saline implant tends to be firmer. The decision is highly personal and based on your breasts, body type, preferences, and other health and medical details, which Dr. DeLozier can discuss with you at your consultation.
The recovery time from breast augmentation surgery is 6–8 weeks, on average. As with all surgeries, the first few days of recovery are the most challenging. Before you come in for your surgery, we recommend that you prepare a comfortable area at home where you will be able to rest and recover with limited interruption. You will need support with day-to-day tasks for the first week or so, depending on your comfort level. You should expect swelling, bruising, and discomfort as you recover, which can be managed with pain medication. You should not shower for the first 2 days and should wear a soft, comfortable, supportive bra for the first six weeks.
During weeks 2–4, you’ll gradually begin to resume your regular routine, however, you should avoid all strenuous activities, including lifting and physical activity. In weeks 4–6 of recovery, most people can add more strenuous activity to their routine, but be sure to ask Dr. DeLozier at your follow-up appointment for his recommendation. In about 3-4 months, the breast implants will settle, the swelling will be gone, and the incisions will be fully healed, allowing you to enjoy your new breasts during all normal activities.
It is common to have additional procedures done at the same time you have breast augmentation surgery. Having multiple treatments done together saves patients time, combines multiple recovery times into one, requires less general anesthesia, and generally costs less overall. One popular way to combine surgeries is with a mommy makeover procedure. It is customized to each individual, however, typically includes a breast lift and/or augmentation, tummy tuck, and liposuction all into a single-day procedure. Whatever your aesthetic goals, Dr. DeLozier will work with you to create the perfect combination to achieve your new, beautiful breasts at his plastic surgery center of Nashville.
