Breast Augmentation in Beverly Hills, CA

Women have many different reasons for choosing breast augmentation surgery, but most of them fall into one of these four categories:

Naturally Small Breasts

Women who have small or asymmetrical breasts due to genetics can achieve increased volume and natural-looking results with breast augmentation.

Change in Breast Size After Pregnancy

Pregnancy and breastfeeding often lead to a reduced breast size and cause a deflated breast appearance. Breast augmentation can restore your original breast volume or enlarge them.

Breast Revision

If a previous breast surgery was unsatisfactory or resulted in complications, a secondary breast augmentation can be performed to correct any concerns.

Sagging Breasts

Aging, pregnancy, and significant weight loss can cause the breasts to sag and have a poor shape. A breast augmentation (often performed with a breast lift) can improve the shape of the breasts and provide a more youthful appearance.

Silicone Implants

• FDA-approved for women 22 years or older
• Pre-filled with silicone gel
• Lower rate of rupture than saline implants
• Said to feel more natural than saline implants

Saline Implants

• FDA-approved for women 18 years or older
• Filled with sterile saltwater solution after insertion
• If a rupture occurs, it will be noticeable immediately
• Size can be adjusted during surgery

The implant type that is right for your goals depends on the look and feel you desire. The majority of breast augmentation patients opt for silicone implants, as they look, feel and move very similarly to natural breast tissue.

Breast Implant Shape

Implants are available in round and teardrop shapes. A round implant provides more fullness in the upper pole (or portion) of the breast. A teardrop implant is gently sloped and provides more fullness at the bottom of the breast. Teardrop implants are usually used for patients that want very natural breast augmentation results.

Incision Location

The most common breast augmentation incisions are the periareolar incision (around the nipple or areola) and the inframammary incision (under the breast where it meets the torso). With both of these incision options, scarring is easily concealed. Other incision locations include the underarm and the umbilicus.

Your surgeon will discuss the pros and cons of each incision pattern to help determine the best option for you. The one you choose will depend on your anatomy, the implants you select and your personal preferences.

Implant Placement

Implants can be placed above or below the pectoralis (chest muscle). Placing implants below the chest muscle offers greater coverage, reduced visibility and, according to some experts, a reduced risk of capsular contracture and other complications.

Consultation

Once you fill out the form above, you will be contacted to confirm an appointment for a one-on-one consultation with the surgeon. This appointment includes an analysis of your health history, any medications you are taking, and what you desire to achieve with the procedure. You should have all of this information with you when you come to your appointment. Then Dr. Lee will discuss the techniques that will best provide you with the results you desire and answer any questions you may have.

Preoperative Instructions

Your surgeon will review in detail all of the information you need to know prior to surgery. Generally, patients should avoid smoking and taking anti-inflammatory medication (e.g., aspirin and ibuprofen) for at least two weeks before surgery. Some vitamins and supplements may also cause problems during or after surgery, so it is best to avoid them or to talk to your surgeon about potential side effects. Be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home and care for you for the first 48 hours after your procedure.

Breast Implant Placement: Surgical Details

Breast augmentation is typically performed with general anesthesia and takes about two hours to complete. Based on the techniques agreed upon during your consultation, the surgeon will place the implants either above or below the pectoral muscle. Incisions are most commonly made either around the nipples or areolas, beneath the breasts at the crease, or in the underarm and are closed with sutures.

Breast Augmentation Recovery

After surgery, you will likely be advised to wear a compression garment to minimize swelling and to keep you comfortable. Swelling will typically subside after about three weeks but may last as long as a few months. For the first few days after surgery you will need to get plenty of rest and avoid bending or lifting. Most patients are able to return to work in one week and resume regular exercise after about six weeks. Your surgeon will give you more detailed information about what you can expect during your recovery.

Benefits of Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation can benefit your appearance, self-image and confidence. The procedure is tailored to your unique anatomy and desired cosmetic outcomes.

Implants improve the size and volume of small or asymmetrical breasts, or breasts that have lost volume after pregnancy, nursing or weight fluctuation. Bigger and fuller breasts can increase wardrobe options and fill out certain types of clothing (e.g., bikini tops) in a more flattering way. It is very common for patients to experience a surge of self-confidence with bigger, sexier breasts and feel more comfortable in their own skin.

Who are the best candidates for breast augmentation?

The best candidates for breast augmentation wish to increase the size of their breasts. Most were either born with naturally small breasts or suffered deflation due to pregnancy, weight loss, or aging. Patients who have excessively sagging breasts may be better candidates for a breast lift or a breast lift with an augmentation. Ideal patients are also in good physical health and do not smoke.

What type of implant should I choose?

There are many implant choices available. You have the opportunity to choose between textured or round, silicone or saline, high or moderate profile, and a range of sizes. Your surgeon will recommend the best implant for you based on your physical anatomy and desires for the procedure.

How long will my breast implants last?

Breast implants are not considered lifetime devices and may need to be replaced at some point after the original surgery. However, most surgeons agree that replacement is not necessary unless an issue arises. On average, most women have their implants replaced between ten and fifteen years after they are first inserted.

What complications can occur?

As with any surgery, there is a risk of developing complications after breast augmentation. Although rare, the most common complication is capsular contracture. Other complications include implant rupture, symmastia, double-bubble deformity, asymmetry, and implant rippling. Breast revision surgery can correct any complication that may occur.

Is there scarring with breast augmentation?

Incisions are placed in locations that are as inconspicuous as possible, and the resulting scars will fade significantly over time. Protecting your scars from the sun will help prevent them from darkening.

How much does breast augmentation cost? Are there financing options?

The cost of breast augmentation depends on the surgeon performing the procedure, the implants selected and the extent of the specific treatment plan. Our practice offers financing through CareCredit.

Do breast implants sag over time?

The implants themselves do not sag, but the natural breast tissue can stretch out due to advancing age, weight fluctuations, pregnancy or nursing. Large or heavy implants can accentuate the sagging.

Are there sizing options or other ways to determine implant size?

Implant sizers can be used to provide a preview of desired breast size. This is a useful tool to achieve natural-looking breast augmentation results.

What types of medications will I be given after my breast augmentation?

You will be given pain medication and antibiotics to take after surgery.

Where are breast augmentation surgeries performed?

Breast augmentation is performed in a hospital or an accredited surgical center.

Will I be able to breastfeed after a breast augmentation?

Most women are able to successfully breastfeed after breast augmentation. If you wish to breastfeed after your surgery, let Dr. Lee know during your pre-operative consultation so he can keep this in mind when designing your surgical plan.

Are there any warranties available for my implants?

Implants usually come with a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty. Should an implant’s shell lose its integrity resulting in rupture or deflation, the manufacturer will replace the implant free of charge and, in some cases, provide additional compensation toward the related surgical costs.