What Is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to increase the size, shape, and fullness of a woman’s breasts. It is one of the most common cosmetic surgery procedures performed both worldwide and in our office, Taylor and Sullivan Plastic Surgery. Breast implants are the most common method for breast augmentation. These implants are typically filled with either saline (sterile saltwater) or silicone gel. The choice of implant type depends on factors like personal preference, body type, and the surgeon’s recommendations. While most women choose silicone gel filled implants, Dr. Stephen Sullivan has experience and training with both saline and silicone gel filled implants. This is a very personal choice for every woman – Dr. Sullivan can teach more in a consultation. A woman must be 22 years of age to have silicone gel implants.

Another method for breast augmentation is fat transfer. Using liposuction, fat is gently removed from an unwanted part of the body such as the abdomen, and moved to the breasts. Although usually smaller than breast implants, fat transfer is a natural breast enhancement using a woman’s own tissue.

Patients looking to explore this surgery meet with Dr. Stephen R. Sullivan or Dr. Helena O. Taylor to discuss desired outcomes such as size. When exploring whether or not a breast augmentation is right for you, it’s important to take into consideration things like body proportions, existing breast tissue, and a woman’s goals when selecting implant size and shape. Breast augmentation is typically performed under general anesthesia, which means the patient is asleep and pain-free during the surgery. It is a very short procedure with a total surgery time of about an hour. 

With our enhanced and carefully planned recovery protocol, recovery time is relatively simple and short. A woman can shower and return to normal activities the day after surgery, while avoiding strenuous activity for the first week. Light exercise resumes as early as one week after breast augmentation surgery. Most patients will need only Tylenol and Ibuprofen for mild discomfort. 

Breast augmentation is a personal choice, and individuals undergo this procedure for various reasons, including aesthetic preferences, improved self-confidence, or breast reconstruction following mastectomy. It is important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss the procedure, potential risks, and expected outcomes to make an informed decision about breast augmentation. Schedule your appointment with Dr. Sullivan today!