Breast Augmentation

Cosmetic breast enhancement surgery with implants is a very personal decision and requires considerable thought and research. Among plastic surgery procedures in general, breast augmentation has one of the highest levels of patient satisfaction. It is vitally important to have an in-depth consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon that is qualified to discuss all of your options regarding size, shape and placement of the implant.

How do you pick your new look? Whether you are going from a B size to a C or from a C to a D size the change will enhance your appearance along with your self-confidence. It is important for potential breast augmentation patients to visualize a breast size that fits their body type and their style of life. Sometimes looking at photographs of women with similar body types can create an image that will help you choose the ideal breast size to match your expectations.

Plastic surgeons need to personalize breast augmentation for each patient by evaluating the size and shape of the existing breast, in order to create a new enhanced breast that is within the patient's expectations. Dr. Applebaum spends as much time as necessary with each patient to understand her desires and expectations. It is most important for patients to understand the choices involved, including incision placement, pocket location (over or under the muscle) and implant type.

The FDA has given both Saline and Silicone breast implants the vote of confidence to be used in primary first time breast augmentation. The scientific studies completed with regard to breast implants show clearly that breast implants are safe and do not cause any medical problems. Both Saline and Silicone implants are safe and create natural results in breast augmentation. Dr. Applebaum during the consultation will review the options and make a recommendation on the pocket placement and type of implant.

Commonly Asked Questions about Breast Implant Surgery

Q: What are the differences between saline implants and silicone gel implants?

A: Silicone gel implants are filled with an inert silicone polymer that forms the substance of the implant. Saline implants are filled at the time of surgery with sterile salt water, and they are sealed after the desired volume is reached. Both implants produce beautiful results and have similar feel. It is up to the patient and doctor to pick the correct implant to obtain the best results.

Q: What are the three incision sites used to place the implant?

A: The most common incision used is the peri-areolar approach or nipple incision, which heals as an inconspicuous line and allow the surgeon the most versatility. The under the breast fold incision is used less commonly, and places a line on the breast that can be visible. This incision also offers the surgeon good exposure. The final type of incision is the axillary approach or under the arm incision that usually is reserved for implants placed over the muscle or smaller implant placement. This incision limits the surgeon's exposure for placement, and is often used in combination with endoscopic cameras. There is a small group of surgeons placing implants through the belly button, however this method is not commonly used by Board Certified Plastic Surgeons.

Q: What are some of the common problems associated with breast implants?

A: Breast implants are safe devices that have been approved by the FDA. Overall, breast implants problems occur at a very small rate. Infrequently the following problems occur: implant hardening, saline implant deflation, implant wrinkling, and changes in skin or nipple sensation.

Q: If my breasts droop, will an implant lift the breast?

A: In some cases of minor droop implants can fill the breast out and improve its appearance. In cases of breast droop after pregnancy or weight loss, the placement of an implant alone may not adequately improve its appearance, and in those cases a breast lift is combined with breast augmentation.

What our patients say

"This surgery has been one of the most positive things I’ve ever done for myself and I can’t recommend it enough if you're considering breast augmentation surgery.
-K.H., a 27-year-old sales rep who went from a small B cup size to a mid C with saline implants.

"Dr. Applebaum did an unbelievable job in returning me my beautiful C cup breasts after I had my 2 children."
-J.G., a 38-year-old housewife and mother of two whose breasts had lost the fullness they had before she'd had her children.

“ I had a noticeable difference in size between my breasts since I was in my teens. After Dr. Applebaum did a wonderful job in correcting asymmetry and I regained confidence in myself and body and felt more at ease wearing bathing suits and more fitted clothes."
-T.P. 29 year old office manager who was living with noticeable breast size asymmetry that impacted her daily life.