Your Top Breast Augmentation Questions—Answered
Breast augmentation is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures in the U.S., but it’s normal to have questions before deciding to move forward. From choosing the right implants to understanding recovery, patients often have a lot to consider. As a board-certified plastic surgeon in Little Rock, Arkansas, Dr. Melanie Prince frequently answers these questions and helps patients navigate the many decisions involved in breast enhancement. Below, we explore some of the most common questions she hears from individuals considering breast augmentation.
What Are the Different Types of Breast Implants?
There are two primary types of implants used in breast augmentation: saline and silicone. Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater after insertion, allowing for minor adjustments in volume. Silicone implants come pre-filled with a cohesive gel and are often chosen for their natural look and feel.
“Gummy bear” implants are a popular type of silicone implant known for their form stability—they hold their shape even if the shell is compromised. The right choice depends on your anatomy, goals, and personal preferences.
How Do I Choose the Right Breast Implant Size?
Implant size isn’t just about cup size—it’s about finding a shape and proportion that works for your body. Factors like chest width, natural breast tissue, and lifestyle all come into play. Plastic surgeons often use visual aids like sizers and/or evaluating photos to help patients preview how different sizes might look. The goal is to achieve a flattering, balanced result that aligns with your vision.
What Are the Incision Options for Breast Augmentation?
There are several incision locations that can be used during breast augmentation:
- Inframammary: in the fold under the breast (most common and Dr. Prince’s preferred location)
- Periareolar: around the lower edge of the areola
- Transaxillary: hidden in the armpit
Each option offers different advantages in terms of visibility, access, and scarring. The best approach varies based on your anatomy and implant choice.
What’s the Difference Between Submuscular and Subglandular, and Subfacial Implant Placement?
Breast implants can be placed either under the chest muscle (submuscular), above it beneath the breast tissue (subglandular), or in front of the pectoral muscle but behind the facia (subfacial).
- Submuscular placement can create a more natural slope and may lower the risk of visible rippling in patients with less tissue.
- Subglandular placement may offer a quicker recovery and is often suitable for those with more natural volume.
- Subfacial placement positions the implant in front of the muscle but beneath the thin layer of connective tissue (fascia), offering some coverage while avoiding muscle disruption.
Each method has pros and cons, and your surgeon will recommend the best option based on your goals and anatomy.
What Is Breast Augmentation Recovery Like?
Most patients can return to light activity within a few days and resume more strenuous movement in a few weeks. Some tightness, swelling, or discomfort is common during the early stages of healing. Recovery experiences can vary depending on implant type, placement, and individual healing factors. Follow-up care and detailed post-op instructions help support a smooth recovery.
Do Breast Implants Look Natural?
When thoughtfully planned and properly placed, breast implants can look very natural. Factors like implant shape (round vs. teardrop), profile, placement, and your body proportions all influence the final look. A well-executed augmentation should enhance your figure while maintaining a natural contour and movement.
How Long Do Breast Implants Last?
Breast implants are long-lasting, but they’re not considered lifetime devices. On average, implants may last 10 to 15 years or more. Regular check-ups are important to monitor the integrity of the implants, and any changes in feel or appearance should be professionally evaluated.
Can You Breastfeed After Breast Augmentation?
In most cases, breastfeeding is still possible after augmentation, especially if the incisions are made under the breast or in the armpit rather than around the areola. However, the ability to breastfeed can also depend on individual anatomy and other factors unrelated to surgery. If future breastfeeding is important to you, be sure to discuss this during your consultation.
What Are the Risks or Complications of Breast Augmentation?
Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation involves some risks. These may include infection, capsular contracture (scar tissue around the implant), implant rupture, or changes in sensation. Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon, following all pre- and post-op instructions, and attending follow-up visits can help reduce your risk of complications.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation?
Ideal candidates are in good overall health, have realistic expectations, and are seeking breast augmentation for their own reasons. Whether you want to increase volume, restore fullness after pregnancy or weight loss, or improve symmetry, breast augmentation can be customized to your needs and goals.
How Much Does Breast Augmentation Cost?
The cost of breast augmentation can vary depending on several factors, including the surgeon’s experience, the type of implants used, the complexity of the procedure, and whether any additional surgeries (like a breast lift) are performed at the same time. Fees typically include the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, facility costs, and post-operative care.
It’s important to remember that breast augmentation is a highly personalized procedure, and pricing reflects that. During your consultation, you’ll receive a detailed estimate based on your customized surgical plan.
Considering Breast Augmentation?
If you’re exploring the idea of breast augmentation, learning the answers to common questions is a great first step. Dr. Melanie Prince brings years of experience and a thoughtful, patient-centered approach to plastic surgery in Little Rock, Arkansas. To learn more about your options and what to expect, contact her practice to get started.