Breast Augmentation in Nashville

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.

Anyone over the age of 18 who wants to reshape their breasts is a good candidate for an augmentation. However, the FDA only permits saline implants for those below 22. Keep this in mind if you fall into the 18 to 21 age group, as this can impact how your expectations become a reality.

There are a few other risk factors that may disqualify you from receiving implants. Typically, we do not recommend pregnant women for breast augmentation due to the use of anesthesia. Breastfeeding women may also not qualify, but only if their desired breast shape would impact their ability to deliver milk. Certain chronic illnesses or those who have had previous surgical complications are more likely to experience adverse effects. However, you and your surgeon can discuss these during your consultation to see if you still qualify.

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.

Saline and silicone breast implants are both considered safe and have the same lifespan of 10 to 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 your surgeon will discuss with you at your consultation.

In addition, we also use an advanced 3D imaging machine to ensure you can visualize the outcome of the procedure and make an informed decision for moving forward.

The recovery time from breast augmentation surgery is 6 to 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 through 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 through 6 of recovery, most people can add more strenuous activity to their routine, but be sure to ask your surgeon at your follow-up appointment for his or her recommendation. In about 3 to 4 months, the breast implants will settle, the swelling will be gone, and the incisions will be fully healed, allowing you to return to your normal activities.

It is common to have additional procedures done at the same time as your breast augmentation in Nashville. 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 this includes a breast lift and/or augmentation, abdominoplasty, and liposuction all into a single-day procedure. Whatever your aesthetic goals, our team will work with you to create the perfect combination to achieve your aesthetic goals.