Considering breast augmentation can be both exciting and daunting. If you're contemplating this procedure, you might wonder what’s involved and what to expect.
At Carl N. Williams, Jr. M.D. Hand and Plastic Surgery in Las Vegas, Nevada, our board-certified plastic surgeon knows that understanding the process, benefits, and recovery helps you make an informed decision. Dr. Williams specializes in breast augmentation, giving you personalized recommendations to help you achieve your aesthetic goals.
Whether you're hoping to enhance your natural curves or restore volume lost after weight loss or pregnancy, our team is here to guide you through every step. Here, you can learn more about what breast augmentation entails and how it can transform your appearance and boost your confidence.
Breast augmentation, or augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the size and shape of your breasts. It usually involves the placement of implants to achieve the desired volume and contour.
This procedure is popular among women who wish to alter their body proportions, improve symmetry, or restore breast volume. There are two primary types of implants: saline and silicone.
Both types of implants are safe, FDA-approved, and can give you beautiful, natural-looking results. However, they have different benefits and considerations.
Your surgeon inserts saline implants empty and, once in place, fills them with sterile salt water. This allows for smaller incisions. If a saline implant ruptures, the body safely absorbs the saline.
Filled with a silicone gel, these implants closely resemble the look and feel of natural breasts. Many patients prefer silicone implants for that reason, but regular monitoring is recommended to make sure they remain intact.
Breast augmentation offers several benefits beyond enhancing your appearance. Some of the advantages include:
Many women also say that their clothes fit better after breast augmentation surgery and they have more options in terms of styles and fashions.
Understanding what happens before, during, and after breast augmentation at Carl N. Williams, Jr. M.D. Hand and Plastic Surgery can ease your anxiety and help you prepare. Here’s a step-by-step overview:
Your breast augmentation journey begins with a comprehensive consultation. During this appointment, you and your provider discuss your goals, examine your breast anatomy, and work together to choose the right implant type and size.
Your surgeon also gives you detailed pre-procedure instructions, which include guidelines on medications, diet, and lifestyle changes to help you be fully prepared.
Breast augmentation is typically performed under general anesthesia, and you’re kept comfortable throughout the procedure.
Your surgeon makes an incision in one of several possible locations: around your areola, under your breast fold, or in your armpit. The choice of incision depends on various factors, including the type of implant, your anatomy, and your provider’s recommendation.
After making the incision, your surgeon creates a pocket either under your breast tissue or beneath your chest muscle to place the implant. Once the implant is securely positioned, the incisions are closed with sutures, and the area is bandaged.
Immediately following your surgery, we monitor you in a recovery room until the anesthesia wears off. You’ll receive specific instructions on caring for your breasts, managing pain, and recognizing signs of complications.
In the first few weeks, you can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Your surgeon prescribes pain medication and recommends wearing a support bra to minimize swelling and support healing. It’s important to avoid strenuous activities and follow your surgeon’s guidelines for regular and physical activity closely.
Most patients can return to work and normal activities within a few weeks, but full recovery can take several months. Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon helps us make sure your implants settle correctly and that your scars heal well.
If you’re ready to augment your breasts, or if you want to learn more about what you can expect with your procedure, schedule a consultation online or over the phone with Carl N. Williams, Jr. M.D. Hand and Plastic Surgery in Las Vegas, Nevada.
