Breast augmentation is one of the most popular procedures in plastic surgery. If someone is looking to improve the shape of their breasts, increase the size of the breasts, or have had a breast reduction in the past and desire more volume, a breast augmentation can make a real and lasting change.
Breast augmentation surgery is done on an outpatient basis and patients can return home the same day.
How is a breast augmentation surgery performed?
Breast augmentation surgery is performed under deep sedation or general anesthesia. We start with small incisions, usually in the fold under the breasts and create space under the breast (subglandular) or under the muscle (subpectoral) to place the implants.
During the procedure we add implants for patients seeking a larger or different shaped breast. We carefully close and suture the skin. The procedure takes about 1 hour to complete, and patients can go home the same day. For those patients looking to reduce the size of their breasts, we will remove excess sagging tissue and perform a breast lift at this time.
What is breast augmentation with fat transfer?
Fat transfer is a common cosmetic surgery procedure to add moderate volume and size to the breast. We remove fat with liposuction from any body part with fatty deposits such as the abdomen, legs and arms, and it is transferred with special cannulas to the areas of the breast we want to enhance. For patients desiring a larger breast change, more firm breasts, a breast augmentation surgery with implants is suggested.
If you would like to discuss the different options for breast augmentation and types of implants we recommend, I would be pleased to meet you for a consultation to answer any questions you have. Dr. Gabriele Miotto, Cosmetic and Breast augmentation Surgeon in Atlanta.
What is breast augmentation and lift?
A breast augmentation is sometimes combined with a breast lift when we need to remove excess skin and lift the breasts to reduce sagging.
Do I need to be sedated during a breast augmentation?
Breast augmentation surgery is done with deep sedation or with general anesthesia. These options are discussed with the patient once the type of procedure is decided on.
Is breast augmentation painful?
There is no pain during the surgery as we numb all of the areas of the breasts where we will be working. Patients may feel some mild pain after the surgery from any bruising or swelling, but there will be prescriptions given for pain and discomfort.
How long will a breast augmentation last?
A breast augmentation is a permanent change, however, breast implants will need to be exchanged at a later date. My patients enjoy a beautiful result for many years.
Will there be visible scars after the breast augmentation surgery?
In general, scars should not be visible since they are in the fold under the breasts or in the axilla. Incisions usually heal really well and become a thin line.
Will there be swelling after breast augmentation surgery?
Yes, there will be some bruising and swelling after the surgery for about a week. Some swelling and discomfort may continue for another 1-2 weeks. We recommend wearing a bra to help support the breasts.
What is breast augmentation recovery time?
The average downtime is about 2 weeks after the procedure. Most patients feel really well after about 2 weeks and can return to their normal activities. Depending on the type of procedure, some patients have more swelling or bruising than others. In 4-6 weeks, patients are usually able to return to more intense physical activities such as going to the gym. Patients will need to return to the office to have follow-up checks, but there are no sutures to be removed.
How much does breast augmentation cost?
There are several factors which make up the cost of breast augmentation. It varies depending on the goals of the patient, the type of implant, and the complexity of the procedure.
Am I a good candidate for breast augmentation?
You may be a good candidate for a breast augmentation if you want larger, fuller breasts and better breast cleavage.
How can I get started to learn more?
If you are interested in breast augmentation to enlarge your breast size, come see us in the office for an in-person consultation. We can talk about what you want to achieve, ideal implant size and shape for your body, and I will answer any questions you have.
Plastic surgery through a woman’s eye
Dr. Gabriele Miotto, Atlanta plastic surgeon known for her beautiful, natural results and high patient satisfaction.
Surgery and Recovery Information
After the Breast augmentation procedure
Breast augmentation is an outpatient surgery done deep sedation or local anesthesia. After the procedure, there will be tape over the incisions, some bruising and swelling.
Breast augmentation is not a painful procedure, but mild discomfort and feeling of tightness in the area are expected for a few days to a few weeks after surgery. Bruising and swelling are usually the cause of the discomfort. However, it can be treated with preoperative and postoperative medication and supplementation, and anti-inflammatories. Swelling can be minimal or more intense depending on how many procedures need to be done in surgery to make the results the most beautiful and natural possible. There are no sutures to be removed. Return to normal daily activities between 1-2 weeks.
General preoperative recommendations for breast augmentation surgery:
What to avoid before surgery:
- DO NOT take any aspirin for 7-10 days before your scheduled procedure. Do not take NSAIDS (Aleve, Motrin, Ibuprofen) for 5 days before surgery. You may take Tylenol (Acetaminophen) if needed for aches or pains. Please contact the office at if you have any questions about any medications that you are taking or if you are prescribed aspirin by your cardiologist or Primary Care Provider (PCP).
- Discontinue Vitamin E 10 days before surgery.
- Avoid the following herbal supplements for 10 days before surgery: Echinacea, Ephedra / Phentermine (used for weight loss), Feverfew, Fish Oils, Garlic, Ginkgo Biloba, Goldenseal, Kava-Kava, Licorice, Saw Palmetto, St. John’s Wort and Valerian.
- Stop Smoking. The harmful effects of smoking can cause tissue death, infection, and open wounds. It also makes you age faster!
- Alcohol can promote swelling of the surgical area and it is best to avoid alcohol intake for at least one week before surgery.
What to take before surgery:
- Dr Miotto will prescribe medication and supplements to help with your recovery and speed up healing.
General postoperative recommendations after a breast augmentation surgery:
- You MUST have a responsible adult to transport you home and stay with you for a full twenty-four hours after your surgery.
- You will be unable to drive if you are taking narcotics.
- It is common to feel sluggish for a few days as the anesthesia works its way out of your system.
- Your initial post-operative appointment will be scheduled by your Patient Care Coordinator.
Activity:
- For your safety, we require that you have a responsible adult stay with you for twenty-four hours after your surgery for general help, as you may find your balance and judgement impaired.
- Please refrain from physical activity that will increase your heart rate or blood pressure for 2 weeks after surgery. However, bed rest is NOT recommended, and you should be walking at normal pace after the procedure.
- Frequent walking will decrease the risk of post-operative blood clots (mostly after general anesthesia).
- Sexual activity can safely be resumed 2 weeks following surgery. Please discuss with Dr Miotto as needed.
Bathing:
- You can shower twenty-four hours after surgery. Maintain the tape on the incisions.
- Do not submerge yourself into a tub/pool until all wounds have healed (usually in 3 weeks).
- Do not scrub the surgical sites, however you can allow soapy water to run over them.
- Avoid lotions on the surgical sites for 2 weeks, but you can moisturize any other areas as desired.
Returning to Work:
- Recovery time will vary; however, most patients return to work within 1- 2 weeks after the procedure, within one week you will have a feel for your specific limitations and will be able to determine how comfortable you will be with resuming your daily activities and workload.
Diet:
- Immediately following surgery, it is best to eat bland, easily-digested food and avoid excess sugar and salt. Healthy proteins (eggs, lean meat, beans, nuts), rice, fruits and cooked vegetables (broccoli, peppers, sweet potatoes) will provide your body with nutrients essential for healing.
- Eat a few bites of food before taking pain medications as these can cause nausea.
- A diet low in sodium will help minimize swelling and water retention.
- Drink plenty of water! Drinking low sugar sports drinks and protein shakes are recommended.
Final Results:
- Keep in mind that our goal in aesthetic surgery is improvement and not perfection. You will be followed closely after surgery to assure that you heal well and have the best possible results.