Breast augmentation is a versatile option for changing breast size, whether you’re looking to restore fullness after pregnancy, create more symmetry, or enhance your natural shape. Some patients come to us after weight changes or aging, while others simply want a change they’ve been considering for years. At Tarola Plastic Surgery in Murfreesboro, TN, we offer different options from saline to silicone implants to help you meet your goals.
What Is Breast Augmentation Surgery?
Breast augmentation surgery involves enhancing the size and shape of your breasts using prostheses called breast implants. The procedure allows us to customize your results by choosing the type of implant and customizing the size and profile to complement your body’s proportions and shape. We then place them in the breast area with precise surgical techniques.
What Can Breast Augmentation Offer?
Improved Breast Size and Shape
Breast augmentation can enhance the size and shape of your breasts, giving them a fuller, more symmetrical appearance. Whether you naturally have smaller breasts or wish to correct unevenness, breast enlargement can help. We will help you choose the right implant type and placement for a shape that feels balanced and natural for your body.
Enhanced Body Proportion and Symmetry
A well-proportioned figure can make a difference, and breast augmentation can help create harmony between your breasts and the rest of your body. If you feel your chest size doesn’t match your hips or other features, augmentation can provide symmetry and balance. This is especially beneficial for patients with naturally asymmetrical breasts.
Increased Breast Volume After Pregnancy or Weight Loss
Pregnancy and significant weight loss can often result in a loss of breast volume, leaving the breasts looking deflated or sagging. Breast augmentation can restore lost fullness and bring back a youthful appearance. We can combine the procedure with other techniques like a breast lift to provide comprehensive enhancement for your post-pregnancy or post-weight loss goals.
Customizable Results for Every Patient
With breast augmentation, we can customize every aspect of the procedure. From implant type and size to the incision location and placement method, every decision is made to suit your unique anatomy and goals. Whether you’re seeking dramatic changes or subtle enhancement, we’ll work with you to create a plan that aligns with your vision.
Reconstruction After Surgery or Injury
For patients who have undergone surgery such as a mastectomy or experienced trauma to the chest, breast augmentation can help restore a sense of normalcy by restoring you physically. The procedure allows us to reconstruct the breasts in a way that complements your body while addressing any functional or aesthetic concerns.
Types of Breast Implants
Saline Implants
Saline implants are filled with a sterile saltwater solution and offer a firmer feel and often a rounder shape compared to other options. These implants are inserted empty and filled during the procedure, which allows for smaller incisions. One of the benefits of saline implants is that they can be adjusted slightly for symmetry during breast augmentation surgery by adding more or less saline.
Silicone Implants
Silicone implants are filled with a cohesive gel that feels similar to natural breast tissue. These implants are pre-filled and come in different sizes, shapes, and profiles to suit different preferences. Many patients choose silicone implants for their natural appearance and soft texture, which can provide results that feel lifelike to the touch.
Teardrop (Anatomical) Implants
Teardrop implants, also known as anatomical implants, are shaped to mimic the natural slope of the breast, with more fullness at the bottom. These implants are often chosen by patients who want a more natural look that follows the contours of their bodies.
Round Implants
Round implants are a popular choice for those who want a fuller look with balanced volume at the top and bottom of the breast. Because of their symmetrical shape, round implants can move slightly without affecting the overall breast contour. This option is ideal for patients seeking a noticeable enhancement through breast augmentation surgery, as it provides a lifted and youthful aesthetic.
Other Factors to Consider During Your Consultation
Implant Placement
During your consultation, we’ll discuss whether placing the implant above or below the chest muscle is the right choice for you. Submuscular placement, which is beneath the muscle, creates a more natural slope and is often best for patients with thinner breast tissue since the muscle hides rippling. Subglandular placement, above the muscle, can work well for patients who have more natural breast tissue and want more defined fullness. Each option has its advantages, and the decision will depend on your anatomy and lifestyle.
Incision Location
The location of your incision determines how the implant is inserted and where any resulting scar may be located. Inframammary incisions are made in the natural fold beneath the breast. This is the most common location since it balances discreet incision location with ease of procedure. Periareolar incisions (around the areola) and transaxillary incisions (located in the armpit) are less common but provide alternative options.
Desired Outcomes
It’s helpful to come to your consultation with a clear idea of what you’d like your results to look like. Looking at example photos can be more effective than simply deciding on a cup size since breast augmentation results can vary based on factors like implant type, placement, and natural proportions. Sharing your preferences helps us understand your vision and recommend options that align with your aesthetic goals. A collaborative approach means we can create a look that feels right for you.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Before Surgery
In preparation for your breast augmentation, you’ll receive a detailed surgical packet outlining everything you need to know, including medications to avoid and specific preoperative instructions. We’ll recommend filling any prescriptions ahead of time to make the day of surgery and your recovery smoother. Preparing a recovery space with essentials like comfortable pillows, snacks, and entertainment can also help you focus on healing after the procedure.
The Day of Surgery
On the day of surgery, you’ll meet your board-certified anesthesiologist, who will guide you through the anesthesia process for your comfort and safety. The procedure takes place at a fully accredited surgical center under general anesthesia. We’ll start by making the chosen incision and creating a pocket for the implant, either over or under the chest muscle, based on decisions from your consultation. If you’ve chosen saline implants, they will be filled during the procedure.
Once the implant is in place, the incisions are closed with dissolvable stitches placed beneath the skin’s surface and sealed with skin glue—no external stitches or dressings are used.
After Surgery
Following surgery, you’ll rest in a comfortable recovery room while we monitor your initial healing. A compression garment is applied to reduce swelling and provide support to the area. This garment stays in place for 24 hours and is then removed, after which you’ll transition to the next phase of recovery.
Recovery From Breast Augmentation
During the breast augmentation recovery period, you’ll be advised to wear a medical bra, sports bra, or soft-cup bra around the clock for 2-3 weeks to promote proper healing. For the first four weeks, you’ll need to avoid lifting anything heavier than 10 pounds, and patients with under-the-muscle implants may have longer activity restrictions. After the initial 24 hours, once the compression garment is removed, you’ll be able to shower. As you progress through recovery, we’ll provide specific guidance to make sure your healing is as smooth and comfortable as possible.
FAQs About Breast Augmentation
How Do I Choose the Right Implant Size for Me?
Choosing the right implant size is a collaborative process where we consider your body proportions, aesthetic goals, and lifestyle. During your consultation, we’ll discuss your preferences in detail and may use tools like implant sizers or 3D imaging to help you visualize potential outcomes. Rather than focusing solely on cup sizes, we recommend looking at example photos that resonate with your goals, since they provide a clearer idea of what’s achievable through breast augmentation surgery.
Are Breast Augmentation Results Permanent?
While the results of breast augmentation surgery are long-lasting, they are not considered permanent. Implants are designed to last many years, but they may need replacement or removal over time due to factors like natural aging, weight fluctuations, or personal preference. Regular checkups and open communication with us will help maintain the appearance and health of your implants as your body changes.
Will I Need MRIs After Breast Augmentation?
For patients with silicone implants, the FDA recommends getting an MRI three years after surgery and every two years thereafter to check for silent ruptures. These scans provide a non-invasive way to ensure the integrity of your implants. While saline implants don’t require MRIs, any changes in your breast’s appearance or feel should be brought to our attention for evaluation.
Will I Have Visible Scars?
With proper incision placement and modern surgical techniques, scarring from breast enlargement is minimal and well-concealed. Incisions are often made in areas like the breast fold where scars are less noticeable. Over time, scars generally fade and become less visible. We’ll also provide aftercare instructions to help minimize scarring.
When Can I Go Back to Work After Breast Augmentation?
Most patients can return to desk jobs or light work within 5-7 days following surgery, depending on how they feel. However, if your job involves heavy lifting or strenuous activity, you’ll need to wait four to six weeks to avoid complications. Recovery timelines can vary based on factors like implant placement, so we’ll guide you on when it’s safe to resume your routine.
Can a Breast Augmentation Treat Sagging Breasts?
Breast augmentation alone is not designed to correct sagging breasts. If sagging, or ptosis, is a concern, a breast lift can be performed alongside augmentation to reposition the breasts and nipples for a more lifted appearance. During your consultation, we’ll assess your breast tissue, skin elasticity, and desired outcome to determine if combining a breast lift with augmentation is the best approach for you.
Improve Shape, Size, and Contour With Breast Augmentation in Murfreesboro, TN
Breast augmentation can offer the enhancements you are looking for by improving the size, shape, and symmetry of your breasts with options personalized according to your preferences. At Tarola Plastic Surgery, we’re here in Murfreesboro, TN, to provide expert care throughout every step of your procedure. To learn more or schedule a consultation, use our online form or call us directly at (615) 624-8914.
