Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is a plastic surgery procedure that enhances the breasts’ size and shape with implants. The surgery is one of the most frequently performed, with over 300,000 breast augmentations performed in the United States each year.
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A variety of implant options are available, including a smooth or textured outer surface, a round or anatomical “teardrop” shape, and a variety of other configurations that determine a custom degree of outward projection from the chest. After breast augmentation surgery, women often experience a renewed sense of femininity and a substantial increase in self-confidence.
The breast augmentation experts of Prime Plastic Surgery will customize your procedure to fit your needs and desired outcome. We serve the San Diego area with offices in La Jolla and La Mesa. Contact your closest location online to schedule your breast augmentation consultation, or call (858) 285-4667 to speak with us directly.
BEFORE & AFTERS PHOTOS
The gallery contains before and after pictures of actual patients. View all cases for a complete listing of all our before and after photos of the patients treated.
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ABOUT BREAST AUGMENTATION
Breast augmentation increases breast size and fullness with the use of implants. The breasts can lose volume after breastfeeding or may be unevenly proportioned. If there is additional tissue sagging, a breast lift, or mastopexy, can be performed in addition to breast augmentation to elevate the breasts to a more youthful position.
Size
Breast implant sizes are measured in cubic centimeters (cc). The volume of implants ranges from 200cc to 600cc. Over-fill saline implants are also available in sizes over 600ccs.
Placement
Implants can be placed underneath the muscle (submuscular), above the muscle but underneath the breast tissue (subglandular), or within the tissue encasing the muscle (subfascial). Our surgeons prefer to perform submuscular breast augmentations as there are fewer complications, and there’s less chance of the implants being seen or felt.
Incision Location
The choice of incision is a decision made by the surgeon in consultation with the patient, either in the natural crease of the armpit, under the areola (periareolar), or under the crease of the breast (inframammary.). This decision is typically based on each patient’s anatomy.
Type of Implant
We offer saline, silicone, and gummy bear implants. Saline implants are inserted into the pocket created in the breast as an empty shell and then filled with saline solution to the desired size. Silicone implants are prefilled with a thick, cohesive gel. Gummy bear implants are also prefilled, and the gel has a similar consistency to that of gummy bear candies. This implant type is less prone to leakage, and a rupture of the outer shell will not alter its shape or size. However, these implants feel firmer.
Implant Shape
Implants come in a round shape. From a profile view, round implants are a symmetrical semi-circle.
Implant Texture
Implant shells can be smooth or textured. Generally, most surgeons in the US no longer use textured implants because of the increased risk of ALCL, a lymphoid tumor that can form in the capsule around the implant. Implants with a smooth surface are less likely to ripple than textured implants. If a patient has little breast tissue, we recommend a smooth implant. Textured implants assist the implant’s adherence to the breast tissue to avoid rotation.
Implant Profile
The profile of an implant refers to its 3D appearance and overall contour. It describes the implant volume, base diameter, and projection. Options include low-plus, moderate-classic, moderate-plus, moderate-high, midrange, full, extra-full, and ultra-high profiles. Generally speaking, higher profiles are best for smaller frames since the base is more narrow.
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IMPLANT BRANDS AT PRIME PLASTIC SURGERY
Sientra
Sientra’s Intelligent Design implants are filled with a form-stable silicone gel. It retains form and shape even after twisting and pulling without leaking. These revolutionary implants are crafted using a high-strength cohesive gel that offers the natural look and feel of actual breast tissue. Sientra implants are leak resistant, with custom shapes and profile options for personalized results.
Mentor
Approved by the FDA in 2006, Mentor’s MemoryGel implants are available in textured or smooth surface shells and have a wide range of sizes and profiles to fit every patient’s unique needs. Implants are crafted using a cohesive gel with a wide variety of profiles and surface options for a custom fit.
Allergan
Natrelle® silicone and saline breast implants by Allergan are also available at Prime Plastic Surgery. Allergan breast implants offer patients a wide range of safe and high-quality saline and silicone options. These implants also offer custom shapes and appearances and a wide range of volumes.
Ideal
Ideal implants are high-performing saline implants that offer the look and feel of a silicone implant. Unlike previous generations of silicone implants, they have a structured shell for a firmer, more natural look and feel, while still offering all the safety advantages of a traditional saline implant. There is no risk of silent rupture, and Ideal implants boast a rate of rupture that is a small fraction of leading silicone implants’ at the 10-year mark.
LOW RATES OF COMPLICATIONS
BIA-ALCL
BIA-ALCL, or breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma, is technically not breast cancer but occurs when tumors form in the capsule around the implant. However, this is extremely rare. To put it in perspective, there are around 25 million patients around the world who have had implants, and there are only around 1000 reported cases of BIA-ALCL. All cases up to now have occurred with textured implants.
Breast Cancer
Breast implants do not increase the risk of breast cancer, in fact, there are several studies that show that there is actually a lower rate of breast cancer in patients that have had implants. However, one should not have a breast augmentation with the idea that it will prevent cancer.
BII
There is a lot of information about BII (Breast Implant Illness) on social media, and most of it is incorrect, claiming that breast implants cause a multitude of symptoms. In valid scientific studies up to this point, patients who have never had breast implants have the same percentage of these symptoms as those with breast implants. The Aesthetic Society Education and Research Foundation (ASERF) is doing research to get additional scientific data about this.
BENEFITS OF BREAST AUGMENTATION
Breast augmentation has an extremely high rate of patient satisfaction: the percentage of patients that have implants and would repeat the surgery is over 90%.
- Natural-looking appearance
- Improves shape post-breastfeeding
- Corrects asymmetry
- Restores breast contour after weight loss
- Higher self-esteem
- Boosted confidence
CANDIDATES
Breast augmentation is ideal for women who:
- Have small breasts
- Have asymmetrical breasts
- Have breasts needing reconstruction
- Are in good health
- Do not smoke or can temporarily quit
- Have reasonable expectations
Are you contemplating breast augmentation surgery in San Diego? Schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified (by the American Board of Plastic Surgery) plastic surgeons.
PREPARATION
In the weeks leading up to breast augmentation, it is advised that patients:
- Cease smoking
- Stop drinking alcohol
- Do not take anti-inflammatories (e.g. aspirin)
- Avoid herbal supplements
- Pick up prescribed medications
- Prepare your home for your recovery
- Arrange for a ride home and for help at home as necessary
PROCEDURE
Breast augmentation is most frequently performed on an outpatient basis, in our office-based surgical facilities, which are accredited at the highest level by the Quad A, the gold standard in national accrediting organizations. The other option is as an outpatient or inpatient at highly acclaimed hospitals. Breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia. On average, the surgery lasts between one to two hours. After we administer anesthesia, the procedure begins with an incision made under the areola, in the inframammary fold, or in the armpit. This will be decided during your consultation. Our doctors are experts at minimizing visual scars. A pocket will then be made by the surgeon in the breast tissue, either above or below the muscle which the implants will be inserted into. The surgeon will make sure that they are properly placed and aesthetically pleasing and proportionate. Once the desired outcomes are achieved, your surgeon will suture the incision points shut and fit a surgical bra.
RISKS
Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation does carry potential risks. These include:
- Unfavorable scarring
- Asymmetry
- Changes in breast/nipple sensation
- Implant displacement
- Rippling
- Infection
- Capsular contraction
RECOVERY
After surgery, you will feel sore and fatigued, so we advise plenty of rest for a few days. Take at least one week off from work after breast augmentation. Continue to avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for at least three weeks after surgery or until instructed. Normally, patients wear a postsurgical bra for two to four weeks.
The recovery period is crucial to the healing process. It is important that you follow your doctor’s post-op care instructions to ensure the best result possible. Our staff will monitor your progress during follow-up visits, to make sure your recovery is going as planned. Subsequent pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss or gain, and aging may affect your results.
RESULTS
You will experience some swelling and bruising but you will see an immediate improvement in breast size and shape. Final results can take up to a year or until you are fully healed. Maintaining a stable weight will help prolong them.
COST OF BREAST AUGMENTATION IN LA JOLLA, CA
The cost of breast augmentation depends on the implant specifics and the complexity of each case. A custom quote will be given to you at the end of your consultation. Give us a call today at your closest San Diego location or fill out our online form and a team member will get back to you very shortly.
Del Mar: (858) 455-0290
La Mesa: (619) 466-8851
La Jolla: (858) 455-0290
FAQ
Will I be able to breastfeed after breast augmentation?
Some variations of breast augmentation may make it more likely that you are unable to breastfeed, but most women with breast augmentations are able to successfully breastfeed. Breast implants pose no medical risk to your baby. 10-15% of women who have never had breast surgery are unable to breastfeed.
Prime Plastic Surgery,
Telephone No.619-466-8851
Can breast implants rupture?
Both silicone and saline breast implants can rupture or leak. If this should occur, they may require surgical removal with a possible replacement.
Prime Plastic Surgery,
Telephone No.619-466-8851
What anesthesia is used for breast augmentation?
General anesthesia is commonly used to make the intra-operative portion of the procedure pain-free and as comfortable as possible.
Prime Plastic Surgery,
Telephone No.619-466-8851
How do I choose the right implant size?
Choosing the right breast implant depends on multiple factors: individual anatomy, existing breast volume, breast dimensions of height, width and projection, ribcage width, chest shape, tissue thickness, desired result, and realistic expectations. The best way to choose an implant size is to try on sizers in the office while wearing a tight t-shirt, bathing suit, or leotard.
Prime Plastic Surgery,
Telephone No.619-466-8851
Are saline implants better than silicone implants?
There are advantages and disadvantages to each type of implant. Both types of implants are utilized by surgeons across the country with satisfactory results. They are both FDA-approved. The best way to determine what the best implant is for you is to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of various implant types along with your concerns and personal preferences during your consultation.
Prime Plastic Surgery,
Telephone No.619-466-8851
Are breast implants safe?
Breast implants are some of the most tested medical devices. Extensive studies of tens of thousands of women with breast implants have shown both saline and silicone implants are safe. They do not produce a higher risk of cancer or autoimmune disease. And after rigorous evaluation by the FDA, both saline and silicone implants are approved for cosmetic and reconstructive usage.
Prime Plastic Surgery,
Telephone No.619-466-8851
What are the alternatives to breast augmentation?
Women who are interested in alternatives to augmentation with implants still have options. They can accept their breasts as they are, or wear a padded bra or external prosthesis.
A fat transfer may be a reasonable alternative for the right patient looking for a subtle augmentation. There is no cream or “magic formula” marketed to produce non-surgical breast enlargement that has ever been proven to work.
Prime Plastic Surgery,
Telephone No.619-466-8851
Is a breast augmentation a one-time procedure?
No one should enter into the procedure with the idea that the implants will last forever, or that they will not need another breast surgery. There are a variety of reasons why a woman would have a secondary procedure:
– To alter the size of the implants
– Because the size and shape of the breasts naturally change as the patient ages,
– To correct the effects of pregnancy on the breasts
– Weight fluctuation
– The implant can form a capsular contraction which produces a hardening
– The implant may leak.
No one can guarantee the life cycle of an implant.
Prime Plastic Surgery,
Telephone No.619-466-8851
Will I have to change my lifestyle or activities after augmentation?
Immediately after surgery, you will have a restriction on exercise and activity until you are healed. Once healing has taken place, you may resume all of your usual activities, including sports, and not have to alter your normal lifestyle.
Prime Plastic Surgery,
Telephone No.619-466-8851
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Telephone No.619-466-8851
