Breast Augmentation

Our patients now have more choices than ever when it comes to implant types and breast augmentation surgical techniques. Because there are so many options available to women, it becomes even more critical that patients and their surgeons make the right decisions and formulate the best possible surgical plan prior to surgery. If you are interested in undergoing breast enlargement surgery, it is important to us that you educate yourself about the many exciting options that are available to you.

To help patients get informed of their choices, Kennesaw breast augmentation surgeons Marcus H. Crawford and Steven Bailey provide a wealth of information on our website. We have found that if you understand the advantages and disadvantages associated with the different types of breast implants and various breast augmentation surgical techniques, you are able to better envision how your ideal outcome would look. We invite you to visit our breast implants page to learn more about your implant options; on this page, you can learn more about the breast augmentation procedure and associated surgical approaches.

The Procedure

Prior to your surgery, our board-certified plastic surgeons will develop a surgical plan that is based on your cosmetic goals, personal, preferences, and physical anatomy. In some cases, he may also recommend the breast lift procedure to reposition the nipple and produce a more uplifted appearance. On the day of surgery, we ask that you abstain from eating and drinking after midnight prior to surgery, wear comfortable clothing, and avoid wearing make-up or jewelry. We will perform your breast augmentation surgery on an outpatient basis, and you can expect to undergo general anesthesia by an anesthesiologist for increased comfort and safety.

Incisional Techniques

Once you are comfortable following the initiation of your anesthesia, the surgeon will create the incisions through which the breast implants can be placed. Depending on your anatomy and desired outcome, one of three common incisions will be used to place your breast implants. The final choice of surgical incisions will depend on the type of implant chosen, the preoperative shape of your breast and areola, and specific concerns you might have about your post-operative appearance. When making your decision, we encourage you to remember that although the resulting scarring is discreet, there will be some degree of post-operative scarring at the incision site. This scarring is usually minimal and often placed in an inconspicuous location.

Creation of the Implant Pocket

After the incision has been created, the surgeon will create a pocket that will hold the implant. The creation of a properly sized pocket is an important step, as it will help keep the implant in its proper position and keep the implant from riding too high, too low, or too far to the right or left. Improperly placed implants are an obvious indication of breast augmentation surgery and are a common cause of breast implant revision.

Implant Placement

Once the pocket has been created, the surgeon will place the implants above or below the chest muscle. Each placement approach offers its own benefits and drawbacks. Our surgeons can help you decide which placement approach will help us achieve the best possible outcome. The decision for the implant placement will be made by you and your surgeon and is based on your specific anatomy and various elements of your lifestyle.

Breast Augmentation Recovery

After the implant has been properly placed and positioned, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures. You can then have a family member or friend drive you home where you should rest for the remainder of the day. After three days to a week, you should be able to return to work and most other activities. Patients can often resume aerobic exercise after three weeks, however, upper body activity and strenuous workouts should be avoided for six to eight weeks. You should experience ideal results about two months after surgery.

Breast Augmentation Side Effects and Risks

It is normal to experience some pain, swelling, and bruising in the chest area for a few days after surgery. This can be minimized with pain medication and anti-inflammatories. During your consultation, Dr. Crawford or Dr. Bailey will discuss safety and risks of all available types of implants. You will also have the opportunity to discuss issues related to implants such as breast feeding, screening for breast cancer, and recommendations for long-term follow-up after your breast augmentation surgery.

Breast Augmentation Consultations

If you are interested in undergoing surgery with our breast augmentation surgeons, contact our office today to schedule a consultation.