Breast implant surgery

Breast augmentation surgery increases the size and fullness of the breasts. It’s also called breast implant surgery or mammoplasty.

Some people choose to have breast augmentation if one breast is larger than the other, or if they aren’t satisfied with the general size or shape of their breasts. If you’ve had a mastectomy for breast cancer, you might have breast augmentation as part of your reconstructive plastic surgery.

Types of implants

If you’re unhappy with the size or shape of your breasts, augmentation can help. There are a variety of implant options that your surgeon can discuss with you. Depending on the type and size of implant you prefer, you can choose implants filled with silicone (a gel with a texture like human fat) or saline (sterile salt water). They’ll be placed either under your pectoral muscles or directly behind your breast tissue. During the surgery, your board-certified plastic surgeon will make incisions in 1 of 3 areas:

• A half circle below your areolas
• Your armpits
• Your chest wall below your breasts

No matter which type you choose, your surgeon will be careful to make your incisions as inconspicuous as possible. You’ll be under general anesthesia or IV sedation during the surgery, so you won’t feel any pain.

If you have concerns about scars from incision marks, talk with your surgeon before your procedure. Some insurance may cover breast augmentation. If you have questions about whether your procedure will be covered, please contact your insurance company.

For more information

Request an appointment or more information from one of our laser and cosmetic surgery clinics.