About Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation surgery is a procedure that reshapes the breasts to create a fuller appearance. It is generally known to be one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries, providing women who are unhappy with their breast appearance effective options for improvement. Using implants or fat from the patient's body, this enhancement surgery improves breast shape and size, and results in a beautiful and youthful outcome. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Koch is experienced in executing this treatment and performs numerous breast augmentations every year. During your consultation at one of our three New York facilities, Dr. Koch will assess your concerns and desires and inform you of all of the options available, while also customizing a surgical plan to achieve your goals.
Implant Options
During your initial consultation with Dr. Koch, the correct implant will be selected based on your body frame, as well as your aesthetic goals. Implants for augmentation come in an assortment of sizes and shapes — all of which are taken into consideration in order to reach the desired result. Today, the most commonly used implant types are saline or silicone, both widely chosen and approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). It is important to mention that candidates considering implants made with saline must be 18 years of age, while patients must be a minimum of 22 years old in order to receive treatment with silicone. Other considerations include gummy bear implants and fat grafting (known as a fat transfer). Aside from the type of augmentation chosen, there are other distinct factors to consider.
Size
Implant size is distinguished based on the number of CCs of silicone or saline used. To determine the right amount, Dr. Koch will measure how much original tissue exists and the size you hope to achieve. During surgery, it is common for Dr. Koch to temporarily switch out various implants to get an idea on a better fit.
Shape
Breast implants come in either a round or teardrop shape. Both shapes are commonly used; however, most of our patients prefer a round implant. It often looks and feels more natural and adds a fullness to the top of the breast that most patients look for.
Profile
Breast implant profile equates to the projection. Meaning, this is what is visible from the side view. The most common projections include low to extra high ranges.
Making Your Choices
These options may be overwhelming, but picking the appropriate implant is easy once the patient's desires are discussed during the consultation. These considerations, coupled with the knowledge of Dr. Koch help to ensure the right outcome is met.
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Ideal Candidates
The choice to go through with breast enhancement surgery is personal. If you are thinking about having this procedure, it is important you do it for yourself and nobody else. You should be healthy with breasts that are fully developed, and be the proper age to have implants. If you are dissatisfied with the shape of your breasts because they seem deflated, you may benefit from this cosmetic breast treatment. In addition, if your breasts have been affected by aging, nursing, or weight loss, this treatment can bring them back to life with increased volume. It is also a welcomed option if you work out with weights or have little to no original breast tissue.
Surgical Technique
Incision type as well as implant placement are aspects that are discussed before surgery. During the procedure, an incision is created and then the appropriate breast implant will be slipped into its position. There are a couple of methods that may be chosen for implant placement. These include either submuscular placement (under the pec muscle), or submammary/subglandular placement (over the pec muscle). Where to place the implant is based on numerous factors including the overall type and size of the implant, along with the opinion of Dr. Koch. No matter where the incision is placed, scarring is usually rare. Implant placement is determined based on your body type, implant size, and lifestyle.
What to Expect
Breast augmentation is performed as an outpatient surgery using general anesthesia. Following the incision, the breast implant will be moved through the incision and deposited into a surgically created pocket, and then fitted into its proper position. Once the implant is in position, the incision is closed with sutures or surgical adhesives. All patients will be taken to a private recovery space and observed before being released. You will be sent home wearing a recovery compression bra to assist with swelling. Within a few days, the bruising and swelling will start to slowly go away, and the breasts will begin to feel normal as they fall into their new position. The majority of patients can engage in normal activities within a few days; however, exercise should be avoided for about 6 – 8 weeks. This surgery results in beautiful outcomes that look and feel both normal and natural. This treatment in most cases can be life changing for many women, allowing them the chance to feel more comfortable in their own skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does breast augmentation cost?
The cost for breast augmentation will vary based on your choices and if you are having any other surgeries at the same time. As soon as your treatment plan is developed in your consultation, Dr. Koch can talk to you about estimated costs and financing options. To ensure your results match your goals and last a long time, it's important to focus on quality over costs.
Do I need a breast lift or augmentation?
Your customized procedure plan may include breast augmentation, a lift, or both. A breast lift removes excess skin and improves the breasts, while augmentation addresses the size and shape of the breasts. During your consultation with Dr. Koch, he will listen to your needs and goals before explaining your treatment options. A combination of augmentation and a lift are often a part of a mommy makeover to rejuvenate the breasts after pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Can I breastfeed with implants?
If you want to breastfeed after breast augmentation, be sure to tell Dr. Koch during your consultation. It is usually possible to breastfeed after implants, with the right surgical technique and placement. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can alter your results, so it is best to wait until after you are done having children to have breast augmentation.
Can I have my implants removed?
You may decide that you want to replace or remove your implants. If this happens, Dr. Koch can perform breast revision surgery. During the revision surgery, your current implants can either be replaced with new implants or removed. If you choose to have your implants removed, you may need to have excess skin removed since larger implants can stretch your skin. If you have any questions or concerns after your augmentation surgery, schedule an appointment at one of our New York facilities to discuss your options.
Do implants cause breast cancer?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is investigating a link between implants and anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL). This is not breast cancer, but a cancer of the immune cells. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), implant-related ALCL is very rare and when caught early, it is easy to treat. Dr. Koch encourages all patients with implants to get regular screenings for breast cancer. You should contact us if you notice any concerns, such as swelling or other visible changes.
Plan Your Procedure
- Average Cost
- $4,500 - $6,000
- Recovery Time
- 4 – 6 Weeks
- Average Procedure Time
- 2 Hours
- Post-op Follow-up
- 1 Week
- Procedure Recovery Location
- Outpatient
Get the Look You Want
Breast enhancement surgery with implants is well sought out for so many reasons. It is considered safe, and produces gorgeous aesthetic results. With an abundance of available options, you can attain the bustline you have always dreamed of. Dr. Koch is pleased to provide this proven surgery and we invite you to learn more. Contact us in New York to schedule your consultation today.