Breast Augmentation

Some discomfort is normal after surgery, often described as chest tightness or pressure rather than sharp pain. It typically improves within a few days, with most patients managing well using over-the-counter pain relievers as swelling decreases.

The process begins with a consultation to discuss goals and select the appropriate implant. A pre-op follow-up may be needed to finalize details. After surgery, follow-up visits are essential, typically starting within the first week and then at 1, 3, and 6 months, to monitor healing and ensure optimal results.

While breast size and shape change immediately after surgery, final results take time. Swelling and tightness may make breasts appear high or firm at first, especially with under-the-muscle placement—most swelling resolves by 3 months, with implants settling into a natural position. Subtle changes can continue for 6–12 months.

Scarring varies by incision type, but most incisions heal into thin, discreet lines that are hidden and fade over time. The commonly used inframammary incision is well-hidden under the breast crease. With proper care, like scar creams, silicone sheets, and sun protection, scars typically soften and fade within 6 to 12 months.

Light walking is encouraged within 24–48 hours to support circulation, but strenuous activity should be avoided for 4–6 weeks after the procedure. Heavy lifting, upper-body workouts, and intense cardio can strain healing tissues; therefore, following your personalized recovery plan for optimal results is essential.

Yes, breast enlargement can be combined with a breast lift. This is a common option for individuals who want to enhance breast size while addressing sagging. Combining procedures provides a more comprehensive transformation and typically requires only one recovery period.

Your safety and comfort are our top priorities. Every effort is made to avoid complications during and after your surgery. Breast augmentation surgery is considered low-risk. Dr. Pittman performs his surgeries in our accredited surgery center, which has physician anesthesiologists and an experienced nursing staff.

The complications immediately following breast augmentation surgery are hematoma (bleeding) and infection. Every effort is made in the operating room and in the days immediately following your procedure to minimize post-operative complications.

We encourage patients to take it easy after surgery. You are given an antibiotic in your IV in the operating room to help prevent infection. Dr. Pittman is meticulous about maintaining sterility when handling and inserting your implant. In his practice, hematoma rates are less than 1%, and infection rates after the procedure are less than 0.001%.

Capsular contracture, implant rupture, and implant malposition are the most common complications in the months to years following surgery. As mentioned earlier, Dr. Pittman utilizes Motiva 6th-generation implants, which have an exceptional safety profile. Our commitment to those implants comes from their very low rates of capsular contracture and rupture.

Choosing the right plastic surgeon for breast augmentation requires careful research and consideration. The most qualified surgeons are board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), ensuring they have undergone rigorous training in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. Experience is key, so look for a surgeon who specializes in breast augmentation and has a portfolio of before-and-after results that align with your aesthetic goals. Beyond credentials, a great surgeon should make you feel comfortable and confident in your decision. During your consultation, assess their communication style, willingness to answer questions, and ability to create a personalized treatment plan.

Patients who understand what breast augmentation can achieve are the most suitable candidates for breast augmentation. In addition, they have completed their family planning or understand that they may not be able to breastfeed if they have more children. They are also close to their ideal weight and lead a healthy lifestyle to ensure they maintain it. Since losing weight can change the breasts’ shape, patients who are not close to their goal weight may want to hold off on breast augmentation.

There are two types of breast implants used for augmentation, which include:

• Silicone
• Saline

Dr. Pittman will discuss all your possible options to ensure you make an informed decision.

When performed by an experienced plastic surgeon, breast augmentation is a safe surgical procedure. However, similar to other surgical procedures, breast augmentation may carry the risk of:

• Bleeding.
• Infection.
• Asymmetry.
• Implant rupture.
• Undesired aesthetic result.

Breast implants can last between 10 and 20 years. However, they do not last a lifetime. For this reason, it is essential to continue following up with your aesthetic surgeon to ensure that your implants remain in good condition and are not leaking.

Currently, there are no non-surgical options for breast augmentation. While skin treatments can improve your skin’s tone and texture, they cannot replace surgical augmentation.

Yes, you can choose the size and shape of your breast implants. Choosing a size and shape that will complement your figure is important. Selecting implants that are too large may not yield the desired result. During your initial consultation, you can discuss your aesthetic goals with Dr. Pittman, who will provide recommendations on which implants will complement your figure and look the most natural.

Dr. Pittman chooses discreet incision placement, such as the breast crease or the armpit. He also uses advanced surgical techniques and high-quality sutures to minimize scarring. To promote optimal healing, follow the post-operative care instructions, including scar massage, the use of silicone gel sheets, and sun protection.

Pregnancy typically does not affect the implants themselves, but hormonal and weight changes can alter the appearance of your breasts, such as changes in size, shape, or position. In some cases, patients may choose revision surgery after pregnancy to restore their desired look.

Wait at least three to six months after childbirth and breastfeeding to allow your body to heal fully and your breast tissue and milk ducts to stabilize.

About six to eight weeks after surgery, you can typically transition to wearing regular bras, including underwire styles. However, some patients may need more time for the implants to settle.

Yes, breast implants can shift or move slightly over time due to factors like aging, gravity, weight fluctuations, or improper implant placement. Dr. Pittman minimizes this risk by carefully selecting the appropriate implant size and placement during surgery.

The FDA recommends High-Resolution Ultrasound or MRI scans five to six years after your initial silicone implant surgery and every two to three years thereafter to check for silent ruptures. Dr. Pittman performs High-Resolution Ultrasound on patients in our office to check for implant ruptures. These ruptures are typically asymptomatic and can only be detected through imaging.

• Unexplained pain or discomfort
• Changes in the shape, size, or firmness of your breasts
• Swelling or redness around the breast
• A feeling of deflation (in saline implants)
• Hardening of the breast tissue (capsular contracture)
• Saline breast implant ruptures

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact Dr. Pittman immediately.

To ensure the longevity of your implants:

• Follow post-operative instructions.
• Attend regular check-ups.
• Wear supportive bras, especially during physical activities.
• Maintain a stable weight to reduce strain on the implants.
• Avoid excessive pressure or trauma to your chest area.