Breast Augmentation Procedure
Overview
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a type of cosmetic surgery that increases breast size. Surgeons place breast implants—either saline or silicone gel—under the breast tissue or chest muscle. Some people choose this surgery to feel more confident, while others use it for breast reconstruction.
Common techniques:
- Implant placement (saline or silicone)
- Fat transfer using liposuction
These procedures are performed by qualified plastic surgeons. Before surgery, patients should have a detailed discussion with their medical team about the risks, benefits, implant safety, and what to expect during recovery.
Reasons People Choose This Procedure
People may get breast enhancement to adjust breast size, shape, or fullness. It can help correct asymmetry—when one breast is smaller—or restore projection and volume lost from weight loss, pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
Some choose this surgery after a mastectomy or other breast cancer treatments as part of breast reconstruction. Others want to lift sagging breasts or include it in a “mommy makeover.” Improved self-image and confidence are also common reasons.
Potential Complications
Rare Cancer Risk from Breast Implants
A small number of people with breast implants can develop a rare cancer called breast implant-related anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). This type of cancer affects the immune system, not breast tissue itself. BIA-ALCL occurs more often in people with implants that have textured surfaces.
Although the risk is low, people with textured implants face a higher risk than those with smooth ones. Researchers are still working to better understand why this happens. Signs and symptoms may include:
- Swelling near the implant
- Fluid buildup
- Pain or a lump in the breast or armpit
- Skin changes or scars near the implant
If any of these changes occur, consult a healthcare professional quickly.
General Health Problems
Some people with breast implants experience a range of symptoms that affect the whole body. These symptoms are sometimes called breast implant illness. The most common complaints include:
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Fatigue | Feeling very tired |
| Trouble thinking clearly | Sometimes called ‘brain fog’ |
| Joint pain | Pain or stiffness in joints |
| Memory problems | Trouble remembering things |
| Skin rash | Itchy or red skin |
| Chest pain or shortness of breath | Discomfort or trouble breathing |
While there is no proven cause linking these symptoms to breast implants, some individuals report improvement after having their implants removed. Experts continue to study this group of symptoms.
Anyone with breast implants who experiences these issues should talk with their healthcare provider. Other possible complications from breast augmentation include:
- Scar tissue (capsular contracture) causing changes in breast shape
- Implant rupture or leaks
- Infections at the surgical site
- Bleeding and persistent breast pain
- Poor healing and visible scars
Getting Ready for Your Procedure
Initial Consultation and Implant Choices
Preparing for breast surgery involves a few important steps to make sure the process goes smoothly and safely. Patients start by talking with a board-certified plastic surgeon about their preferences for breast size, shape, and feel.
They discuss different types of implants—such as saline or silicone, smooth or textured, and round or teardrop-shaped—so the patient can choose what fits best. Writing down questions ahead of time helps cover these details.
Review All Provided Information
Read every document from the plastic surgeon or the implant maker. Patients should keep copies of everything, including FDA information about patient rights and risks. This checklist helps patients understand benefits, risks, and what to expect during and after the surgery. Patients should be aware that:
- Breast implants do not stop breasts from sagging.
- Implants generally last about 10 years, and future surgery might be needed to fix or change them.
- Weight changes, aging, or implant tears (called ruptures) may affect the breast’s shape.
- More surgery could be needed if implants are removed.
- Mammograms frequently necessitate additional images when patients have implants.
- Some people may have difficulty breastfeeding after surgery.
- Health insurance usually does not cover the cost unless the surgery is medically needed, such as after cancer treatments.
Medical Tests and Exams
Doctors may require a baseline mammogram or other imaging like an MRI or ultrasound before surgery. This provides images of breast tissue before receiving the implant.
For those receiving silicone implants, regular imaging is recommended. The table below shows the typical imaging schedule for silicone breast implants:
| Breast Imaging Schedule | Recommended Action |
|---|---|
| 5–6 years post-op | 1st screening MRI or ultrasound |
| Every 2–3 years after | Continued imaging for monitoring |
Medication Adjustments
Doctors may change certain medicines, such as stopping aspirin or other blood thinners, to lower the risk of bleeding during surgery. Patients should bring a list of current medications and let the surgical team know about any allergies or medical history.
Lifestyle and Exercise
The surgical team instructs patients to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for a period before and after the operation to ensure proper healing. Those who smoke are asked to quit at least 4–6 weeks before and after surgery, as this helps recovery and lowers the risk of surgery problems.
Comfort and Aftercare
Before arriving at the surgical facility, patients should wear loose, clean, and comfortable clothes—a shirt that zips or buttons up is easier to put on after surgery. Buying a supportive sports bra to wear during recovery, as recommended by the doctor, is helpful.
Patients must arrange for a responsible adult to drive them home after general anesthesia and stay with them for at least the first night. Pain medication and any special aftercare items should be available at home.
Financial Planning
Costs include the operation, anesthesia, facility fees, possible imaging, and pain medicines. Since most insurance policies do not cover breast augmentation, patients should plan for all possible expenses related to the procedure and any follow-up surgeries.
What You Can Expect
What Happens in the Operating Room
Breast enlargement surgery usually takes place at a surgery center or hospital outpatient facility, so patients often go home the same day. In most cases, the anesthesiologist administers general anesthesia, making the patient sleep for the entire procedure.
Sometimes, the team uses a local anesthetic for numbness in the chest area. The surgeon makes one of these types of cuts (incisions):
| Incision Location | Name Used | Where It Is |
|---|---|---|
| Inframammary Fold | Under-breast crease | Below the breast |
| Periareolar | Around the nipple | Edge of the areola |
| Axillary | Underarm | In the armpit |
After making the incision, the surgeon opens a space, called a pocket, either behind or in front of the chest muscle (pectoralis). The surgeon places and centers the implant under the nipple area.
For saline implants, the surgeon positions the empty shell and fills it with sterile saltwater. For silicone implants, the surgeon places pre-filled implants.
The surgeon closes the incision with stitches (sutures) and adds extra support using surgical tape or skin glue. Sometimes, the surgeon places drainage tubes near the breasts to manage any extra fluid after the operation.
What to Expect After Surgery
Patients typically experience mild pain, swelling, and bruising for several weeks after the operation. The breasts may feel warm, heavy, or sensitive to movement, which is a normal part of healing.
Some scarring at the incision site is also expected, but these marks usually fade over time. To help support the breasts during recovery, doctors may recommend wearing a compression bandage or supportive sports bra. Pain medication may be prescribed to manage any discomfort in the early days following surgery.
Returning to work may be possible within two weeks, especially for those with desk jobs or non-physical tasks. However, any activity involving strenuous movement, lifting, or an elevated heart rate should be avoided for at least two weeks to promote proper healing.
Patients may still have stitches or drainage tubes that require removal at a follow-up appointment. If non-dissolving sutures or surgical drains were used, the clinic will take them out during this visit.
When To Call the Surgeon:
- Unusual warmth, redness, or swelling in the breast
- Fever
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
These could be signs of an infection or another serious problem. Contact the medical team right away if these occur.
Results
Breast augmentation often leads to noticeable changes in both size and shape. Many patients see improved symmetry and a balanced appearance. Before and after photos highlight these changes.
| Before Augmentation | After Augmentation |
|---|---|
| Smaller size | Increased fullness |
| Uneven shape | Better symmetry |
Over time, factors like aging, weight gain, or weight loss can change how the breasts look. If changes occur, patients may choose to undergo touch-up procedures.
