Breast Augmentation

What Is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that’s designed to improve the shape and size of a woman’s breasts using silicone or saline breast implants. This is an invasive surgical procedure that requires making incisions. Through the incisions, the chosen breast implants will be placed. This surgery can help add more fullness to the breasts while enhancing their size. Breast augmentation is performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you can return home the same day the surgery takes place.

Breast Augmentation Consultation: Who Is a Candidate?

A consultation is the first step to determining if you are a candidate for breast augmentation. During this initial appointment, Dr. Atencio will take the time to discuss your aesthetic goals, review your medical history, and provide recommendations tailored to your unique body type and expectations. If you are compatible with the procedure, Dr. Atencio will work with you to determine the best implant choice to suit your unique anatomy and desired result, creating a customized plan that includes the specific details of your surgery, including costs. 

• Desire for enhanced breast size or shape: Ideal candidates are individuals who want to increase the size of their breasts, restore volume lost due to weight fluctuations or pregnancy, or improve asymmetry in breast size and shape.

• Good physical health: Candidates should be in generally good health with no underlying medical conditions that could affect healing. Non-smokers or those who can quit smoking for an extended period before and after surgery are preferred, as smoking can interfere with recovery.
• Stable body weight: It’s important that candidates have a stable body weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Significant weight fluctuations after surgery could alter the results of the augmentation.

Choosing Saline or Silicone Breast Implants

When you are deciding on undergoing breast augmentation surgery, you will have to choose between saline or silicone breast implants. Saline breast implants are filled with a saltwater solution. They’re inserted into the area empty and will then be filled with saline to the appropriate size.

Silicone breast implants are pre-filled with a silicone gel. They are inserted directly into the treatment area at the appropriate size and provide a more natural feel when compared to saline breast implants.

The Breast Augmentation Procedure

Your breast augmentation surgery will begin with the administration of anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. Depending on your unique case, either general anesthesia or intravenous sedation will be used, which will be discussed during your consultation.

Once the anesthesia has taken effect, Dr. Atencio will make small, discreet incisions based on the surgical plan you developed together. The incisions may be placed in one of several locations, such as along the inframammary fold (beneath the breast), around the areola, or under the arm. 

The choice of incision location will depend on your anatomy and desired results. Through the incisions, Dr. Atencio will carefully create a pocket for the implant, which may be placed either above or below the chest muscle (pectoralis major), depending on the type of implant and your body’s characteristics. She will then position the chosen implants, ensuring they are symmetrical and meet your aesthetic goals.

Recovering from a Breast Augmentation

Following your breast augmentation, it is normal to experience some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort. These side effects are temporary and should gradually improve over the first few days to weeks. Dr. Atencio will prescribe pain medication to help manage any discomfort and will provide detailed post-operative care instructions to promote a smooth recovery.

In most cases, patients can expect to return to light activities within a few days, but it is essential to avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and any vigorous physical activity for at least 4 to 6 weeks. For the first two weeks, it is crucial to rest, take time off from work, and allow your body to heal properly. Wearing a surgical bra as directed will help reduce swelling and support your breasts as they settle into their final position.

While initial recovery typically takes about two weeks, full recovery can take several months as the swelling completely subsides and the implants settle. During follow-up appointments, Dr. Atencio will monitor your healing process and ensure you are progressing as expected. With proper care, you will soon enjoy the full, natural-looking results of your breast augmentation.

What Is the Cost of Breast Augmentation?

The cost of breast augmentation depends on the specific details of each patient’s case, so it varies. Factors such as implant choice and size and placement method may influence cost. The personalized procedure plan created during your consultation will include detailed price information on all of the fees related to your surgery.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you are considering breast augmentation and want to explore your options for implants, we invite you to request an appointment. Our patients benefit from the higher level of patient care, privacy and convenience afforded to them through having their procedure conducted at our state-of-the-art surgery center. Contact us today for a breast augmentation consultation at Dr. Atencio’s practice in Austin, Texas.

Breast Augmentation: FAQs

BEFORE & AFTER