Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure designed to add volume and enhance the shape of the breasts. Also referred to as breast enlargement or augmentation mammoplasty, this procedure has helped millions of women across the globe renew their appearance with beautiful results. Studies show that over one-third of women are dissatisfied with the appearance of their breasts. Breast augmentation using implants is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic surgeries in America, and throughout the world. Over 300,000 patients undergo breast implant surgery every year in the U.S. Prior to surgery, most patients are self-conscious about the appearance of their breasts. Remarkably, over 90 percent of patients report an improvement in self-esteem following breast surgery. No other cosmetic surgery can match breast augmentation for patient satisfaction (98.1%). On a scale of 1-10, the average patient rated their results as 9.3, with over half giving themselves a 10 rating.

Breast augmentation is one of the most satisfying procedures for the patient due to the instant transformation in a woman’s shape. It is an operation where patient gratification is almost immediate and it reliably meets or exceeds expectations. Other types of cosmetic surgery of the face and body may have inherent limitations.

Even mature women can enjoy more youthful-looking breasts with the right combination of implants and breast lifting. If you would like to schedule a consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeon, James M. Shaw, MD, to talk more about breast augmentation, please contact us today.

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Breast Augmentation Candidates
Breast Augmentation Benefits
Breast Implant Options
Breast Augmentation
Breast Augmentation Recovery
Breast Implant Lifespan
Breast Augmentation Results
Breast Augmentation Scars
Breast Augmentation Cost
Breastfeeding with Implants
Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation
Non-Surgical Breast Augmentation
Breast Implant Risks

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What Can Breast Augmentation Achieve?

Implants can provide many improvements to the shape, size, symmetry, and contours of the breasts. This breast surgery is among the most personalized cosmetic procedures available, allowing a myriad of benefits depending on what patients hope to achieve. In general, breast augmentation can offer:

Enhanced breast volume
Larger breast size
Increased fullness in the upper breasts
More voluptuous breast shape
More sensual silhouette
A better fit in clothing and swimsuits
Greater symmetry

If your primary goal is to address breast sag, breast lift surgery may be able to address your concerns more effectively when compared to breast augmentation. Dr. Shaw can also discuss the possibility of combining both procedures for a “breast lift with implants,” or a breast augmentation-mastopexy, in order to enhance both the size and positioning of the breasts at the same time.

Why Do Women Seek Breast Augmentation?

A patient may choose breast augmentation for different reasons. Maybe she feels she has naturally small breasts and finds that they are not consistent with her body proportions. She may have asymmetry involving the size or shape of her breasts. Adding volume with an implant can help to disguise these differences. Additionally, many women lose volume in their breasts following pregnancy or substantial weight loss, and breast augmentation can restore that volume.

Most patients are seeking more fullness in the upper portion of their breasts. Replacing lost volume with implants can help to regain this more youthful fullness. It is not surprising that most bras, padding, or inserts are meant to enhance the upper pole of the breasts. Breast augmentation from our board-certified plastic surgeon can enhance the size of the breasts and improve shape and symmetry with results that look both natural and beautiful.

What Are My Breast Implant Options?

The size of the breast implant is generally determined during the office consultation with our plastic surgeon, Dr. James M. Shaw. Individual measurements will be taken to determine the patient’s overall proportions. There is a wide range of available implant volumes and dimensions for breast augmentation. In addition, there are several types of breast implants to choose from, including those filled with silicone or saline, implants that are round or shaped, and breast implants with a smooth surface. The projection profile is also an important consideration.

Patients can use the mobile application Natrelle^® 3D to create a 3D image of themselves with their future breast implants in order to get a “preview” of the possible benefits. The app allows people to adjust the size of their implants to see what the prospective outcome may look like. This innovative app can be downloaded from the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store.

Breast Implant Consultation

When you are planning for breast implants / breast augmentation, Wichita plastic surgeon James M. Shaw, MD has extensive knowledge and experience to help you achieve your desired look. For most patients, the goal is to enhance breast volume in a way that is proportional to the patient’s body shape and dimensions.

Dr. Shaw is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has the expertise to help you choose which type of breast implant will help achieve your desired results. At your consultation, you will have the opportunity to review various types, shapes and sizes of breast implants that are available.

Choosing the Right Implant Size

It is very helpful to “try on” several different sizes of breast implants during the examination to get an idea of how the end result will appear. The ideal implant will vary greatly from person to person depending on factors such as height, weight, shoulder and chest width, symmetry, the amount of existing breast tissue, and personal preference. The majority of patients simply want to have their breast size increased to better match their proportions. This change allows them to wear the clothing they prefer without making extra accommodations with specialty bras or inserts.

Silicone Implants vs. Saline Implants

Silicone breast implants are the most popular choice for breast augmentation patients at Shaw Plastic Surgery because they feel softer than saline implants and have a more natural feel. The silicone breast implants that Dr. Shaw uses are not filled with silicone in a liquid form. They contain what is referred to as “cohesive gel.” The advantage of cohesive gel breast implants is that even if the outer shell of the implant was damaged, the material inside cannot move around under the skin or migrate to other areas.

Some patients do prefer to use saline breast implants. These devices have the same outer surface as the silicone implants and are filled with saline solution. This is the same fluid found in IV fluid. The saline breast implants cost less than the silicone implants. Saline implants can be more easily felt under the skin and they may be more likely to show visible wrinkling.

Implant Texture

Dr. Shaw can also answer questions you may have regarding the other breast implant choices. We offer smooth, round implants and do not utilize textured devices. In addition, implants are available in a wide range of sizes and projection profiles. While the options may seem overwhelming, Dr. Shaw has experience with all of these breast implant types and can help you to select the implant that is right for you.

What Is Involved In the Breast Augmentation Procedure?

The surgery will be performed by our board-certified plastic surgeon, and will be done under general anesthesia in an ambulatory surgery setting. The anesthesia provider is certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology. The surgery center is also fully accredited by the appropriate regulatory agencies. Patients go home the same day and a responsible adult driver is required for dismissal. Patients who live more than one hour from Wichita, Kansas are encouraged to spend the first night in a local hotel or with family or friends.

A variety of advanced techniques are available for breast augmentation procedures. The specific technique that is most ideal for your unique needs and goals will be determined during the initial consultation with Dr. Shaw.

Diagram showing implants above and below the muscle

Implant Placement

Breast implants are placed in one of two primary locations: either above the chest muscle (right behind the breast tissue) or beneath the chest muscle. In many cases, below the chest muscle is the better option because the results often appear as natural as possible. In others, an over-the-muscle approach may be preferable. Dr. Shaw will talk with you about the advantages and disadvantages of each location and decide which will be best for your needs.

Incision Locations

The location of the incisions for placement of the breast implants will also be discussed during your initial consultation. There are essentially three different methods that are most commonly utilized: inframammary, periareolar, and transaxillary. An inframammary incision involves breast implant placement through an incision made in the area on the underside of the breast where it meets the chest. In the periareolar approach, Dr. Shaw will create an incision in the areola, which is the dark-pigmented region that surrounds the nipple. For transaxillary breast augmentation, the implant is inserted via a small incision made in the armpit (this technique can only be utilized with saline breast implants since the implant cannot be filled until it is already placed).
The best incision location is dependent on each individual patient’s anatomical needs and ultimate goals. Rest assured that, regardless of the location, Dr. Shaw is extensively skilled with this procedure and places a strong focus on producing results that will yield as minimal visible scarring as possible.

Inframammary

The under side of the breast

Periareolar

In the areola around the nipple

Transaxillary

In the armpit

Patient Results

What Can I Expect During Breast Augmentation Recovery?

The gauze dressing can be removed or replaced the day after surgery and it is okay to shower at that time. The incisions can get wet while showering, but soaking in a tub or pool should be avoided. A thin tape (Steri-Strip^™) remains in place over the incision. The tape will gradually loosen on its own over several days. If it comes off, it does not need to be replaced. You will have prescriptions for pain medication, but continuous use of cold packs will be even more useful. Ibuprofen can also be used following surgery, but aspirin is to be avoided.

Most patients will go home in a bra provided by the surgery center. It is okay to wear a sports bra instead of the garment provided if you prefer. The purpose of the bra is to reduce breast movement and the associated discomfort. The bra will not “shape” or “mold” the breast. If you prefer not to sleep in the bra, that is fine.

Patients are encouraged to stay at home after breast surgery and limit arm activity for the first four or five days. After this, most daily movements and activities will be fine. However, heavy lifting and strenuous exercise should be avoided for the first few weeks. The best advice is, “if it hurts, don’t do it.”

Swelling and bruising will vary greatly from one patient to another. The swelling usually increases steadily until the third day after breast surgery, then slowly resolves. Typically, one side will have more bruising/swelling than the other. Most patients have some degree of pressure sensation and skin tightness. This will resolve over the first several weeks as the skin relaxes and the swelling goes away.

Due to the pressure and skin tightness, there may initially be changes in breast sensation. This can range from numbness to hypersensitivity, and is usually a combination of both. Sensations experienced in the right and left sides usually are not the same. These changes in sensation commonly resolve over the first six or eight weeks. It is rare to have a long-lasting change in sensation.

HOW LONG DO BREAST IMPLANTS LAST?

Implants typically last for several decades and do not need to be replaced/removed unless a complication arises, or unless a patient wants to upgrade to a different size or type of implant. The exact longevity of an implant often depends on factors like the brand and fill material. In any case, Dr. Shaw also performs breast revision surgery for individuals who want to exchange their implants or who are dissatisfied with the results they received from another surgeon. The most common complications associated with breast implants include capsular contracture (scar tissue formation) and implant rippling, which occurs when the edges of an implant are seen or felt through the skin. Implant rupture also presents a risk, however the chances of a tear or leak occurring are extremely low. Dr. Shaw will further discuss the longevity of an implant with you during your consultation.

Will My Breast Augmentation Results Appear Natural?

Breast augmentation is one of Dr. Shaw’s top procedures and he is well-known for his natural-looking results. Selecting a skilled board-certified plastic surgeon is generally the best way to ensure your desired results come to fruition. Breast enhancement can be either subtle or more voluptuous depending on your wishes and goals for the procedure. Trying on different implant sizes during your consultation will help you understand how a given size will affect your silhouette, and we encourage you to explore our breast augmentation before-and-after photos to get an idea of how natural breast implants can appear.

How Noticeable Are Breast Augmentation Scars?

The visibility of residual scarring from breast augmentation will ultimately depend on which surgical technique is utilized during the procedure. With that in mind, Dr. Shaw is extensively experienced with breast surgery, and works diligently to ensure that scars resulting from breast augmentation are as minimal as possible. Inframammary incisions (which are created in the crease of the breast) are in an area where the scars can be easily hidden; transaxillary incisions (in the armpit) also typically produce scars that are relatively small and virtually unnoticeable to others; and periareolar incisions usually yield scars that blend in with the pigmented area around the nipple. In most cases, the scars from breast augmentation will also fade to some degree over time

Young women in a bikini having fun at the beach

How Much Does Breast Augmentation Cost?

The cost of breast augmentation utilizing saline breast implants typically starts at about $4,800 here at Shaw Plastic Surgery. Breast augmentation using silicone implants usually starts at $5760. However, it is important to keep in mind that breast augmentation procedures are completely customized for each patient; therefore, the cost will not be the same for everyone. A variety of factors go into the overall price of breast augmentation, including the technique utilized, the type of breast implants that are placed, fees for the surgeon, anesthesia, and use of the surgical facility, and other costs. Once you have been evaluated during the initial consultation and your customized treatment plan has been developed, a member of our team will produce a price estimate that calculates all expenses associated with your breast augmentation procedure and answer any questions you may have. Our practice accepts a comprehensive array of payment options, and we work with CareCredit^®, an agency which offers affordable plastic surgery financing plans for qualified applicants who would like to pay for their treatment on a convenient monthly basis. We will be happy to assist you with finding the way to pay for your procedure that works best within your budget.

Coffee break between meetings. Beautiful young woman using her digital tablet while sitting in car

CAN I STILL BREASTFEED WITH BREAST IMPLANTS?

If you are able to breastfeed before receiving breast implants, you should still be able to breastfeed following augmentation surgery (assuming the procedure is performed safely and correctly by a board-certified plastic surgeon). It’s important to remember that not all women are able to breastfeed, even before surgery. If you believe you may want to nurse in the future, we encourage you to discuss your desires with Dr. Shaw so he can develop an appropriate treatment plan to help preserve the ability to breastfeed.

There is a slight risk of milk gland disruption when an areolar incision is used to place the implants, although the probability of this happening is extremely low. Certain techniques — such as employing an inframammary incision and/or positioning implants below the muscle — can often be used to decrease the possibility of interfering with milk glands. From an aesthetic standpoint, we generally recommend getting breast implants only after you have no future plans for pregnancy or breastfeeding. Having children after a procedure can change the shape and contours of your chest, potentially altering your breast augmentation results.

CAN I GET BREAST AUGMENTATION WITH FAT TRANSFER?

Breast enhancement using fat transfer is an innovative technique designed to supplement the breast contours using your own fat, offering a more “natural” augmentation without an implant. Fat is harvested from another region of the body, such as the thighs or hips, and the adipose cells are processed and purified for injection into the breasts. Results can be very natural-looking, but will not provide a substantial size or volume increase like the results characteristic of breast implants.

Fat transfer breast augmentation is usually most successful for patients who only want a mild enhancement or who would like a softer, more supple look in their breasts. This approach can also provide coverage for the edges of an implant if they’re visible, helping correct rippling. Many women can achieve top-notch results with a combination of both implants and fat transfer, but Dr. Shaw will be able to more personally advise you once he understands your goals.

Is Non-Surgical Breast Augmentation Possible?

Unfortunately, the results of breast augmentation cannot be replicated through non-surgical treatments. Implants offer customized breast contours by allowing patients to choose the right size, type, and shape of implant for their needs. This personalization enables the outcome of breast augmentation to appear refined, elegant, and complementary to your natural beauty. There is currently no treatment or procedure that can enhance the bust with the same quality or longevity of results when compared to breast augmentation. We encourage you to discuss your ultimate goals and needs with Dr. Shaw so he can help develop the best treatment plan to achieve your desired results.

What are the Most Common Breast Implant Complications?

While capable of achieving excellent results, breast implants are not designed to be lifetime devices. The most common complications associated with breast implants include:

Rippling: Implant rippling is marked by the ability to see or feel the edges of an implant through the skin. This may occur if a patient doesn’t have enough natural breast tissue to provide coverage for their implants. Fortunately, the risk of implant rippling can be reduced by placing implants under the chest muscle (submuscular placement).
Capsular Contracture: Capsular contracture is defined as the hardening of an implant’s scar capsule, sometimes causing pain, tightness, and discomfort for patients. While some extent of scar tissue formation is to be expected, capsular contracture can cause distortion in the look or feel of your breasts when left untreated.
Rupture: Implant rupture refers to a leak, break, or tear in an implant. This complication is exceedingly rare, and silicone implants may not exhibit visible signs of rupture. With saline implants, the saline solution is harmlessly absorbed by the body in the event of rupture.

These concerns can be addressed with breast revision, a secondary breast augmentation procedure designed to treat complications and/or upgrade your implants to a different size or type. We encourage you to reach out to our team if you have any questions or concerns about the longevity of your breast implants.

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Would you like to learn more about our advanced breast augmentation procedures? Please contact us today with any questions you may have, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Shaw. We look forward to hearing from you!