Dr. Boynton also commonly deals with challenging breast revision surgery that can involve “downsizing” large implants; correcting implant malposition, rippling, or wrinkling; treating symmastia; and/or placing ADM (acellular dermal matrices) or “scaffolds” such as GalaFLEX® to support the implants, prevent bottoming out, and enhance upper pole fullness.
Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation, or enlargement, is an outpatient surgical procedure that utilizes the placement of cohesive silicone gel (or saline) breast implants to help women add volume and fullness, as well as enhanced shape, to the breasts. It is a very popular and common procedure that many women desire for a variety of reasons. Some individuals have congenital differences and breast asymmetries they wish to address, while others may simply be unhappy with their breast size and desire to have more fullness to fit their frame. In addition, many women seek breast augmentation to rejuvenate their breasts following pregnancy. The breasts are stretched and expanded during pregnancy and lactation, and afterwards, the glandular tissue inside the breasts often atrophies. This leaves most moms with varying degrees of “tissue deflation.” Breast augmentation is a wonderful way to restore this lost volume.
Houston plastic surgeon James F. Boynton, MD is highly experienced in breast augmentation, and he has the artistic eye and surgical skill to achieve exceptionally natural-looking results that align with each patient’s unique needs and goals. Overall, this procedure has an extremely high rate of satisfaction, and it can be an incredibly empowering treatment that exudes youthfulness and vivaciousness.
Breast Augmentation At a Glance
- Potential Benefits: This procedure can enhance the size, volume, and fullness of the breasts, as well as improve the overall shape and symmetry. It can also make the breasts more proportionate to the individual’s body.
- Procedure: Breast augmentation has one of the highest rates of satisfaction for cosmetic procedures. Typically, it can be performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia, lasting one to two hours.
- Recovery: Patients should avoid strenuous exercise and lifting over 10 pounds for at least two weeks; however, most of Dr. Boynton’s patients (about 85–90%) are pain-free in three days after surgery and are able to resume some of their regular daily activities within the week.
- Cost: At Boynton Plastic Surgery, cost estimates typically begin in the range of $9,000 and upwards; however, the total price of this procedure varies among patients based on the customized treatment plan (ex: silicone gel or saline breast implants, complexity of the procedure, the techniques utilized, and other factors).
- Surgeon: Board-certified plastic surgeon James F. Boynton, MD has extensive experience in advanced breast augmentation techniques, with skills adapted from working with many world-renowned experts in cosmetic surgery. Recognized as a “Top Doctor®” by Castle Connolly and a “Top Doctor” by RealSelf, he is committed to exemplary standards of patient safety and satisfaction across a wide range of aesthetic procedures.
Explore Topics On This Page
- Breast Augmentation Benefits
- Breast Augmentation Candidates
- Breast Implants
- Choosing the Right Breast Implants
- Breast Implant Placement
- Breast Augmentation Procedure
- Breast Augmentation Recovery
- Breast Augmentation Scars
- Breastfeeding After Breast Augmentation
- How Long Do Breast Implants Last?
- Breast Augmentation with Lift
- Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation
- Breast Augmentation Cost
- Complementary Procedures
- Traveling After Breast Augmentation
- Choosing a Breast Augmentation Surgeon
- Additional Breast Augmentation FAQs
What Are the Benefits of Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation offers a range of benefits for women who would like to renew the appearance of their breasts, including:
- Enhanced size, volume, and fullness
- Improved shape and symmetry
- Enhanced balance and proportion between the breasts and the body
- Restoration of lost breast volume
Dr. Boynton’s advanced breast augmentation techniques combined with his extensive experience with this procedure can create results that look beautiful and natural. Breast augmentation surgery can be an effective treatment on its own or in combination with other body contouring and skin enhancement procedures for a more comprehensive rejuvenation. In fact, breast augmentation is a frequent addition to customized mommy makeovers.
Am I a Breast Augmentation Candidate?
Candidates for breast augmentation are typically women who are unsatisfied with the volume, size, or shape of their breasts. The advanced breast implants offered by Dr. Boynton can address these concerns by enhancing breast fullness and volume, as well as improving shape. Women who consider breast augmentation are often individuals who: have long-desired a larger breast size; have lost breast volume due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, or the natural aging process; or would like to improve symmetrical proportions of the breasts. Because this is a major surgery, the ideal candidate should be realistic about the results that can be achieved and in relatively good overall health. Good candidates should also not currently be pregnant or nursing, and should not be tobacco smokers. Dr. Boynton will talk with you about your goals, evaluate your needs, and help you determine if you are an ideal candidate for breast augmentation.
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Nicole – Patient Testimonial
Did You Know?
What Are My Breast Implant Options?
Breast implants are available in a variety of types, shapes, sizes, and profiles. At our practice, Dr. Boynton offers numerous kinds of saline and silicone gel breast implants, as well as highly-cohesive silicone gel breast implants (sometimes referred to as “gummy bear” implants), from well-respected manufacturers such as Mentor®. Additionally, we now offer the innovative Motiva® breast implants. You can find more details on the many advanced breast implant options available at our practice below:
Breast Implant Types
Saline Breast Implants
Saline breast implants are FDA-approved for women aged 18 years and older. This historically popular implant option is composed of a saltwater-based solution encased in a silicone outer shell. Saline implants have proved to provide excellent, natural-looking results for a diverse range of patients.
Silicone Breast Implants
Silicone breast implants are widely believed to achieve a more natural look and feel in comparison to saline implants, and they last longer. FDA-approved for breast augmentation patients 22 and over, these conventional implants are composed of thick silicone gel enclosed by a durable outer silicone shell. They are generally considered to be more resistant to issues such as rippling and leakage, and they are typically regarded as an excellent option for patients with a thinner body frame. Since the FDA re-approved the use of the silicone gel implants in 2006, the pendulum has swung greatly in favor of silicone gel due to their natural feel and long-lasting integrity.
Mentor® MemoryGel® Xtra Breast Implants
Mentor’s MemoryGel Xtra line of silicone gel breast implants increases the “gel to shell” ratio and adds even more fullness for those who want a fuller look and still have the softness of a Mentor implant. Dr. Boynton has found these are particularly useful in patients who have saline implants and want a softer, better feel but want the “look” of a saline implant.
The MemoryGel Xtra series is also designed to provide enhanced upper-pole projection and long-lasting shape retention, which can be especially beneficial for women who desire a more lifted and youthful silhouette without compromising on softness. The increased cohesivity of the gel allows the implant to maintain its form while still feeling natural to the touch, offering patients both aesthetic appeal and comfort.
Another advantage of Mentor MemoryGel Xtra implants is their versatility in accommodating different body types and surgical goals. Whether a patient is seeking revision surgery after older implants or pursuing augmentation for the first time, this option gives Dr. Boynton the ability to deliver results that look natural, feel soft, and provide added fullness where it’s desired most. Combined with Mentor’s strong safety track record and warranty program, the MemoryGel Xtra line offers patients peace of mind along with outcomes that can look both beautiful and natural.
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Mentor® BOOST Breast Implants
Mentor® BOOST implants are a newer addition to the Mentor family, created for women who want a rounder, more augmented look without sacrificing softness or comfort. These implants are filled with Mentor’s proprietary silicone gel and engineered to deliver extra projection, particularly in the upper portion of the breast, that can give patients a fuller, more lifted appearance. The chance of rippling is also less among BOOST implants, and the gel inside is an even more cohesive gel than the Xtra implant variety. For individuals who prefer a noticeable enhancement while enjoying the natural feel of silicone, BOOST implants can be an appealing choice.
Dr. Boynton often recommends Mentor BOOST implants for patients who are seeking to maximize fullness with reliable shape retention. They can be an excellent option for women who are naturally smaller-chested, those who want to restore lost volume after pregnancy or weight changes, or individuals interested in a bolder cosmetic result. Like all Mentor implants, BOOST devices are supported by the company’s rigorous safety standards and warranty program.
Motiva® Breast Implants
Motiva breast implants are designed with advanced materials and surface technology to offer patients a natural look and feel while supporting long-term implant health. Their state-of-the-art SmoothSilk® surface is designed to reduce friction between the implant and surrounding tissue, promoting a stable position. This unique design can help lower the likelihood of complications such as capsular contracture, making Motiva a valuable option for women who may have experienced recurrent issues with older implant types.
Another benefit of Motiva implants is their versatility in different surgical situations. They can be especially effective in revision procedures or when implants are placed above the muscle, where maintaining softness and reducing scar tissue response is critical. Patients who choose Motiva may appreciate the combination of natural movement, aesthetic longevity, and peace of mind provided by this next-generation implant technology.
Why Dr. Boynton May Recommend Motiva® Implants
Dr. Boynton may suggest Motiva implants in specific situations where their advanced design and performance offer distinct benefits, such as:
- Patients with a history of capsular contracture or recurrent implant hardening.
- Cases where implants are placed above the muscle and minimizing tissue response is important.
- Women seeking a natural look and feel with smooth, soft movement.
- Individuals interested in advanced implant technology designed for long-term stability and reduced complication risk.
Breast Implant Shapes
While there are several different breast implant shapes available, the most prominent are round and “teardrop-” or anatomic-shaped implants. Round breast implants are often beneficial for patients who desire a higher level of projection and a fuller appearance in the upper regions of the breasts. These kinds of breast implants are also known to minimize the potential for “rippling.”
Teardrop-shaped implants, which are sometimes referred to as “anatomic-shaped” breast implants, are rather thin at the top and gradually slope downward to create a more round bottom. The teardrop-shaped implant is typically only available in “gummy bear” implant types.
You can find more information on the specific shapes available for each type of implant in the Breast Implant Types section above.
Breast Implant Sizes
While it is natural to place an emphasis on the size of breast implants you are considering, it is also important to understand that “bigger” is not necessarily better for many patients. Breast implants are available in numerous sizes that can successfully enlarge the breasts and create a larger “cup” size; however, it’s often advisable to focus less on what the new cup size will be and more on how particular sizes of breast implants will enhance and accentuate the body frame in general. We take a number of different steps to help patients choose the breast implant size that will both satisfy their expectations and produce beautiful aesthetic results.
Dr. Boynton utilizes his own “biodimensional planning” with each patient that involves taking specific measurements. Once gathered, the measurements are converted into the best implant size for the individual based on their measurements. The patient then gets to try on the implants in a special “sizer” bra that simulates the final result. This way, Dr. Boynton incorporates the science of the measurements with each patient’s goals and wishes to arrive at the best result for each particular patient. Dr. Boynton also utilizes a special sizer at the time of surgery to confirm and ensure the best size and goals for each individual based on their tissues.
How Do I Choose the Right Breast Implants?
Choosing the right implant for you will be based on a number of different factors, including your specific needs and desired outcome. During your consultation, Dr. Boynton will discuss all of your options in thorough detail, highlighting the various advantages and disadvantages of each choice. In addition, measurements of the breasts and chest wall will be taken to devise a “biodimensional plan” and identify which implants can be safely accommodated by your breast tissues. Once all possible options have been discussed, Dr. Boynton will assist you in the selection of breast implants that can most effectively help you achieve your breast augmentation goals.
Breast Implant Placement
During the breast augmentation procedure, the implants can either be placed:
- Under the pectoral muscle (submuscular)
- Over the muscle and under the glands (subglandular)
The placement will depend on the size of the implants, the amount of breast tissue present, and the amount of space available. Generally, Dr. Boynton prefers to use the submuscular technique, which is associated with more natural-looking results and a larger amount of tissue coverage; however, he will always tailor the procedure to your unique body type.
What Does the Breast Augmentation Procedure Involve?
The breast augmentation procedure is best approached using a tiny “inframammary” (IMF) incision along the crease under the breast. It is about the width of a quarter and heals extremely well, and it is well-disguised. Dr. Boynton has vast experience with patients of all demographics and types of skin pigmentation, and the incision tends to fade away for the majority of individuals. There are other incisions that can be made, but none of them give the accuracy of implant placement that the IMF incision affords. There is also a decreased chance of nipple sensitivity changes and capsular contracture with this incision (as compared to the periareolar incision). Once the incision is made, implants are typically placed in the subpectoral pocket (under the chest wall or pectoralis muscle). Dr. Boynton utilizes a minimal touch or no-touch technique with silicone gel implants that minimizes any risk of contamination, implant shell integrity loss, and even capsular contraction. Dr. Boynton is an expert with the dual-plane technique, which involves differentially releasing the anterior surface of the pectoralis muscle to variable degrees in order to get some degree of internal lift. This can be especially helpful in patients that have early signs of sagginess and may not be ready for a breast lift yet.
In some cases, Dr. Boynton performs a dual plane subpectoral breast augmentation when indicated, especially in patients that have some “early” changes of breast ptosis or “droopiness” to the breast. This allows some degree of “internal lift” to be accomplished in conjunction with the breast augmentation. Sometimes this is not enough, and patients require both breast augmentation and mastopexy together—also known as breast augmentation with mastopexy. Dr. Boynton has advanced training in this highly complex procedure and can help determine the best plan for each patient.
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Lacy’s Breast Augmentation Surgery Testimonial
Breast augmentation is an outpatient surgical procedure that typically takes a little over an hour to perform, and patients are generally able to return home the same day under the care and supervision of a close friend or family member. Risks of surgery—such as hematoma—are nationally quoted as about 1% of all patients in the U.S. Currently, Dr. Boynton’s risk of hematoma is well below that. In the event of a post-operative hematoma, early recognition and treatment are essential to remedy the problem.
What About Recovery from Breast Augmentation?
Following breast augmentation, 85–90% of patients are pain-free in three days. This is called “flash recovery” by some doctors—it is based on the principles of careful and precise dissection, smaller incisions, and using biodimensional planning in selecting implant size. Most individuals feel well enough to go out to dinner the evening after surgery, if they desire. The day after the procedure, patients are seen by Dr. Boynton in the office, their ACE bandage that was placed after surgery is removed, and they are fitted into a comfortable zip-in-front sports bra. All patients are given a prescription for antibiotics, pain medicine, and a muscle relaxer. Most women take a mild muscle relaxer for several days, though many elect not to take their pain medicine because they do not need it.
Showering is acceptable the day after surgery, and the majority of patients are able to resume normal activities of daily living very quickly. That said, heaving lifting (anything over 10 pounds), overhead reaching, and any kind of aerobic exercise is restricted for two weeks to ensure safety and minimize any risk of complications.
Where will the scar be placed?
Typically, Dr. Boynton uses a small inframammary incision hidden under the breast, just over an inch in length. This incision heals better and has the highest success of well-placed implants, less hardening (capsular contraction), and less nipple sensitivity problems.
Can I breastfeed after the procedure if I choose to get pregnant?
This is a concern that many women considering breast augmentation share. Breast implants do not typically interfere with breastfeeding. The vast majority of patients are able to breastfeed after breast augmentation; however, this is also based on the assumption that the patient would have been able to breastfeed prior to breast augmentation. There should not be any “interference” of the milk ducts from the breast implant. Dr. Boynton typically performs breast augmentation utilizing an IMF (crease under the breast incision) and also places the implant behind the muscle in almost all cases. Anecdotally, Dr. Boynton cannot ever recall a patient in 14 years that attempted breastfeeding after augmentation that wasn’t able to. During the initial consultation, please talk with Dr. Boynton about your wishes regarding future breastfeeding.
How long do the breast implants last, and when would they need to be replaced?
Many plastic surgeons tell their patients that saline implants need to be replaced every 10 years. Dr. Boynton thinks that if there are no concerns or problems, they only need to be changed if the patient desires a change. Saline deflation rates are typically about 1% per year. If a patient has a saline implant deflation, she will wake up one day and notice changes. It is usually spontaneous and not related to trauma. Silicone gel implants have been used since the early 1960s, and we know from history that even with the older generation of implants, they often would last 20 to 30 years. The current 4th or 5th generation silicone gel implants have better implant shell designs as well as a more cohesive gel that will be less susceptible to leakage or rupture. The current silicone gel implants have been used since 2006, and we have every reason to believe they will endure at least as well as the older silicone implants.
“You're not just a patient, he asks you how are your kids, how's your mom... The way he treats you during the procedure, the before and after care... I wouldn't go to anybody else.”
Breast Augmentation with Lift
Breast augmentation is an ideal way to enhance the size and shape of the breasts; however, it typically cannot successfully address significant levels of breast ptosis (sagginess). With that in mind, patients who would like to add fullness to the breasts in addition to improving a “drooping” appearance in the breasts may benefit from a breast augmentation with lift procedure. Also known as augmentation-mastopexy or “breast lift with implants,” this treatment combines a breast lift with breast enlargement to help individuals increase the size of their breasts while eliminating excess skin and moving the breasts higher on the chest, ultimately creating a firmer, more youthful, and “perky” aesthetic.
What Is Breast Augmentation with Fat Transfer?
Breast augmentation with fat transfer is a procedure designed to enhance breast volume and shape utilizing excess fat from another location on the body. The fat can be taken from an area such as the abdomen, hips, thighs, or buttocks via liposuction. This extracted fat is filtered and processed, and then strategically reinjected into the breast tissue. Dr. Boynton does not perform breast augmentation with fat transfer exclusively as a way to increase size. The most one can do in any case is possibly go up a single cup size when augmenting the breasts using only fat transfer techniques. With that in mind, Dr. Boynton does believe in what is known as composite breast augmentation, which utilizes tissue-specific cohesive silicone gel implants under the muscle that fit the shape and size, and is in balance with the patient’s tissues. Dr. Boynton then takes small amounts of fat (via microliposuction) and places them in certain locations, such as the upper medial pole of the breast, where that can add volume and thickness for shape and implant tissue cover in some cases. Dr. Boynton can talk more with you about that option and determine whether it may be an effective solution for your needs.
How Much Does Breast Augmentation Cost?
There are many factors that go into the total cost of breast augmentation, including the complexity of the operation, the type of breast implants that will be placed, the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia and facility fees, and other components. Here at Boynton Plastic Surgery, the total cost of breast augmentation typically starts in the range of $9,000 and upwards, which includes the surgeon’s fee, cost of anesthesia, cost of implants (depending on silicone gel or saline breast implants), and surgicenter or hospital costs; however, the price can vary based on each patient’s unique treatment plan. Our plastic surgery team is committed to providing you with an upfront cost estimate of breast augmentation surgery comprised of all aspects of the procedure so that you’ll know what to expect before your treatment begins. Once your customized treatment plan is created during the initial consultation, a member of our staff will go over the total cost estimate with you and discuss the many payment options available at our practice. These options include CareCredit®, a plastic surgery financing company that offers qualified applicants a range of low- and no-interest monthly payment plans that can make paying for your surgery as financially convenient as possible.
Complementary Procedures
Breast augmentation can be performed on its own or paired with other treatments to refine overall proportions. For patients with moderate skin laxity or downward-pointing nipples, a breast lift (mastopexy) can be combined with implants to elevate the breast position and improve shape in a single operation (breast augmentation with lift). In select cases, Dr. Boynton may recommend composite augmentation, using limited microliposuction fat grafting to soften visible edges or enhance upper-pole transition for a more seamless contour.
To address changes after pregnancy or weight fluctuation, breast augmentation may be included in a customized mommy makeover, frequently alongside tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) and targeted lipocontouring of the flanks or abdomen. These combinations can restore balance between the torso and chest while minimizing multiple recovery periods.
There are several options, both surgical and non-surgical, that can be explored for patients who are interested in more comprehensive aesthetic rejuvenation. Whether procedures are performed together or staged depends on your anatomy, goals, and safety considerations.
How Soon Can I Travel After Breast Augmentation?
Most patients feel markedly better within a few days and resume light daily activities fairly quickly; however, travel plans should be made thoughtfully and cleared with our team. In general, we recommend remaining local for your first post-operative visit the day after surgery.
For air travel, timing depends on your healing and the nature of the trip:
- Domestic flights: many patients can fly about 5–7 days after surgery once early swelling is stable and you’ve been examined in the office.
- International or long-haul flights: plan 2–3 weeks before flying to allow more recovery time.
Dr. Boynton will provide personalized guidelines depending on individual needs. In general, when patients travel after breast augmentation surgery it is important to wear a supportive front-closure bra, avoid lifting more than 10 pounds (including luggage), and ask companions or airport staff for help with bags and overhead compartments. During flights, patients may be advised to walk the aisle periodically, flex the ankles, hydrate well, and avoid alcohol to reduce swelling and lower the risk of blood clots. Patients should also continue to avoid swimming, hot tubs, and submersion until fully cleared (typically around four weeks). If a trip involves significant activity, heat, or altitude change, patients should let us know so we can tailor guidance.
Your safety and results come first. Dr. Boynton will provide travel clearance based on your exam, comfort level, and itinerary.
How to Choose Your Breast Augmentation Surgeon
The selection of the plastic surgeon who will perform your breast augmentation procedure is one of the most important aspects of the treatment process. The doctor you choose will essentially be your partner throughout, and you will want to make sure from the outset that you feel comfortable, confident, and assured in your prospective plastic surgeon’s ability to deliver excellent results and the best possible experience.
Here are some of the criteria that can help you know what to look for when researching the breast augmentation surgeon who is right for your needs and goals:
Credentials, Experience, and Background
For starters, it is important that you search for surgeons who are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, such as Dr. Boynton. Board-certification indicates that the surgeon has met strict requirements in the field of plastic surgery and is experienced with an array of procedures. In addition to board certification, it can be helpful to find out how many years the surgeon has been in practice and how many breast augmentation procedures the doctor has performed. Membership in respected medical organizations and societies such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS), the doctor’s overall approach to care and practice philosophy, and the honors and awards he or she has received can also be helpful in getting a fuller picture of the surgeon’s background and credentials.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
By reading reviews of the plastic surgeon and viewing testimonials by previous patients, you can get an idea as to the experiences of others who were in the doctor’s care. This can help you gain insight into the surgeon’s approach and the results obtained by patients at the practice.
Before-and-After Breast Augmentation Photos
One of the best ways to fully visualize the plastic surgeon’s ability to produce successful outcomes is by viewing breast augmentation before-and-after photos featuring the doctor’s previous patients. These photo galleries can give you a specific idea of what your prospective surgeon is capable of. If the photos are not available on the surgeon’s website, it can be useful to ask the practice to see before-and-after photos upon your first visit.
Meeting With the Surgeon
Once you have narrowed down the choices when it comes to prospective breast augmentation surgeons, it is important to schedule an initial consultation with the doctor to determine your level of confidence and comfort. This meeting is a good opportunity to ask questions, evaluate your rapport, and make your final decision as to whether this particular plastic surgeon is the right fit for your needs. Any kind of plastic surgery is a major decision, and you should always feel that the doctor you have chosen is well-qualified, communicative, attentive, and committed to offering you the absolute best in care.
Additional Breast Augmentation FAQs
How long will the implants take to “drop” into place?
Everyone that has implants placed below the muscle will look a little different at first. The implants are usually high, firm, and tight. The implants will “drop” into place as the swelling recedes over the coming weeks. We have a comprehensive program for implant displacement/massage or exercises for each patient that help facilitate the implants falling into place.
Should I massage my breast implants after augmentation?
Post-operative breast augmentation massage can be a helpful way to reduce the potential hardening of the implant capsule by disbanding developing scar tissue in the breast area. The concentrated movements can keep breast implants looking and feeling natural with a soft and supple breast appearance as they settle into their shape and position.
For best results, patients should follow any breast massage techniques provided in post-op aftercare instructions. Recommendations for massaging the areas may advise that the process begins the first week after surgery or once the breast augmentation incisions are healed to the point of no longer being at risk of reopening; however, it is important to carefully follow instructions directly given by our team as these are often unique to each patient. Usually, it is recommended to continue breast augmentation massage three times a day for about three to four months following surgery. Once the implants can move freely within the breast pocket, breast massage may only be needed once per day for as long as one year or as directed by our plastic surgeon and medical team.
It is important to note that breast massage cannot completely prevent breast implant hardening (capsular contracture) from occurring and patients should notify us immediately if they are experiencing any tight or painful symptoms in the breast area.
When can I go swimming?
Patients can take a bath, resume swimming, or get in a hot tub, lake, or ocean (if going on a vacation) four weeks after the surgery. Research shows that submerging the breast in water before then can increase the risk of implant infection.
How do I decide between silicone gel implants and saline-filled breast implants?
Both are FDA-approved devices and patients do well with either. Dr. Boynton lets each patient decide what is best for them. Silicone gel implants often feel the most breast-like, they probably last or “hold up” the longest, and they have less visible wrinkling or rippling (as can be seen sometimes in patients that have very thin tissues). Either implant is placed below the muscle. There is a very informative website — www.surgery.org — that has further good scientific information about both types of implants.
Will I have any changes to nipple sensitivity?
Most patients will experience some transient increase or decrease in nipple sensitivity due to the “expansion” of the breast, which resolves over several months. Most commonly, patients notice their nipples are more sensitive.
Are there any health concerns with using silicone gel implants?
Most of the “scare” with silicone gel breast implants stems from the 1980s and 1990s when many women had their ruptured silicone implants removed. The FDA took silicone gel implants “off the market” in 1992, and it then became the most studied medical device of all time. Lawsuits claiming illness and sickness in patients from silicone gel implants were rampant during this time. Claims of arthritis and a number of health conditions being caused by the silicone gel implants were subsequently shown to have no scientific bearing. Repeated studies have shown them to be very safe. All major countries in the world use silicone gel implants. Saline implants are rare outside the US. The website www.breastimplantsafety.org has more details on this topic.
How do I pick my size?
Dr. Boynton utilizes a system of “biodimensional planning” that basically involves a number of careful measurements about the breast and chest wall. This is a way to take into account the tissue characteristics and body measurements to help figure out what implant may be best-suited for that particular patient. This is analogous to having a tailor measure a patient for a custom outfit. Afterwards, the patient is able to try on sizer implants in a special bra that simulates the changes with breast enhancement. This way, each patient can get an idea of what size they like. Dr. Boynton is able to put together the science of the measurements with the patient’s desires and arrive at consistent, excellent results that patients are excited about.
How much do breast implants weigh?
The weight of breast implants is often directly relative to how many cc’s (cubic centimeters) of saline or gel have been placed inside the implant shell. The shell itself will contribute a small amount of weight; however, it is the volume inside the shell that will weigh more. In many cases, even with large breast implants, the implants themselves will only weigh about one to two pounds (if that). Although the weight of the implants is an issue that is sometimes considered by patients, there really shouldn’t be much of a difference in terms of weight gain after breast augmentation.
What do breast implants feel like?
The way your breast implants feel will depend on the specific type of breast implant you choose. You can find more detailed information on breast implant types in the sections above. With that in mind, you can be assured that our practice utilizes many of the most advanced types of breast implants available, along with state-of-the-art surgical techniques designed to provide patients with results that look and feel as natural as possible.
How should I sleep after breast augmentation?
Your sleeping position is very important in the weeks following breast augmentation. You will want to minimize any pressure or strain on the breasts while you recover, so we typically recommend that you sleep exclusively on your back for a few weeks following surgery. We may also advise you to elevate your back with pillows for a few nights, as well. Dr. Boynton will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions offering additional guidance for your unique needs.
What type of bra should I wear after breast augmentation?
Dr. Boynton will provide you with a special type of sports bra to wear during the recovery period. For most patients, this bra should be worn for several weeks after breast augmentation in order to aid the healing process and provide support for your enhanced breast contours.
When can I exercise after breast augmentation?
Most patients should be able to resume mild to moderate exercise routines two to four weeks after breast augmentation surgery, depending on the individual’s unique rate of healing and treatment plan. However, strenuous activity, lifting objects over 10 pounds, aerobics, and swimming should all be avoided for at least four to six weeks following the implant procedure. These recovery timelines are set to allow incisions the proper time to heal without risking infection and to prevent implant dislocation, asymmetrical implant shifting, or an implant rupture. During follow-up appointments, Dr. Boynton will advise on the individual’s recovery progress for resuming various activities.
Are there non-surgical breast augmentation options?
Surgical breast augmentation remains the only effective solution for enhancing breast size, volume, and fullness. While there may be some myths in circulation that describe certain workouts or exercises that can improve or reshape breasts, there is no evidence of medical or clinical results to support claims that they provide effective breast enlargement. As one of the most researched and well-documented cosmetic procedures, breast augmentation surgery has greatly progressed with advancements in materials utilized, surgical techniques, recovery timelines, and longevity of implant devices, and the procedure has a very high overall patient satisfaction rate.
Schedule a Consultation
Dr. Boynton can answer all of your questions about breast augmentation during an initial consultation. At this meeting, he will discuss all aspects of the procedure and show you examples of a variety of sizes, shapes, and types of breast implants. If desired, he will also help you determine if you are a good candidate to combine your breast augmentation with a tummy tuck and/or other cosmetic procedures for a more comprehensive enhancement. Please contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Boynton, or if you would like more information about breast augmentation.
