Breast Enhancement Procedures: A Guide From a Plastic Surgeon

Whether you are looking to add volume, improve upper breast fullness or address drooping that has developed over time, we can build your plan around what will deliver the most natural, lasting result for you.

What is breast augmentation?

Breast augmentation is a procedure used to modify the shape and appearance of the breast. In most cases, this involves placing an implant. In some situations, fat grafting or a combination of techniques may be used.

Patients often seek breast augmentation to:

• Add overall breast volume
• Improve upper breast fullness
• Enhance cleavage and contour

There are many implant options available today. During consultation, we will talk about implant type, size and placement and how they affect both appearance and feel so expectations are clear before surgery.

Implant Options

There are a wide variety of breast implants available from multiple manufacturers. I often use highly cohesive gel implants, otherwise known as “gummy bear” implants. These implants are designed to provide:

• A more natural feel
• Less rippling
• A smooth, balanced appearance

Advances in implant technology have made modern implants very safe. We will review the options that best fit your body type and aesthetic goals.

When is a breast lift recommended?

A breast lift is designed for patients who have drooping of the breast, sometimes called breast ptosis. This can develop after:

• Breastfeeding
• Weight loss
• Natural aging

A breast lift uses carefully planned incisions to reposition the nipple from a lower position to a higher, more natural position on the breast. The procedure reshapes the breast tissue and skin envelope to restore balance and proportion. 

Some patients benefit from a lift alone, while others achieve the best result by combining a lift with breast augmentation.

Do I need a lift with my breast augmentation?

Not every patient needs a breast lift.

Patients who are often good candidates for breast augmentation alone typically:

• Have smaller breasts
• Have good nipple position, usually above the fold beneath the breast
• Want to add volume and upper breast projection

If the nipple position is lower or there is significant drooping, a lift may be recommended to optimize the final result. This decision is based on anatomy, not a one size fits all approach.

How long do breast implants last?

Breast implants are not considered lifelong devices. In general, a good breast implant result can last about 10 to 15 years, though this varies by patient.

If everything looks and feels normal after that time and routine imaging does not show concerns, there may be no immediate need for implant exchange. Changes over time may be related to the implant itself or natural changes in breast tissue as the body ages.

Ongoing follow up and appropriate imaging are part of long-term care planning.

Start with a consultation

Every breast procedure begins with a conversation. I will take the time to understand your goals, evaluate your anatomy and recommend an approach that prioritizes safety, balance and long-term satisfaction.

Request a consultation to learn which breast enhancement option is right for you.