Breast Augmentation Explained with Dr. Todd Rau

What is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure to enhance the shape, fullness and volume of the breasts by inserting a saline or silicone implant.

What Types of Breast Implants Are Used?

Breast augmentations either use a saline or a silicone implant. Your surgeon can help you determine which implant may be best for you.

How Long Do Breast Implants Last?

Breast implants do not last a lifetime. Some may need to be replaced in less than 10 years. Others may last up to 30 years. Regardless of the type of implant, most implants will need to be replaced within 15 to 20 years.

Difference Between a Breast Augmentation vs a Breast Lift?

While the breast augmentation and breast lifts are different procedures to achieve different goals, they can be combined. Some patients may need both procedures to achieve their desired results.

• Breast augmentation — making the breast larger with an implant
• Breast lift — repositioning of the breast tissue, areola and nipple

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentations may be a good option for women with smaller breasts who are looking for increased breast size, women with large breasts who are looking for more upper breast fullness and for transgender people who are looking to align their body with their gender.

Who is Not a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation?

Those who are smokers, have poorly controlled diabetes or are otherwise not mentally or physically prepared for a surgical procedure are not ideal candidates for a breast augmentation. Women who already have large breasts or those with very thin skin may also not make good candidates for the procedure.

What to Look For in a Breast Augmentation Surgeon?

When finding a surgeon for a breast augmentation, Dr. Rau recommends finding a surgeon who is experienced and board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

What Questions Should I Ask During a Breast Augmentation Consultation?

• Are you certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?
• Are the surgery facilities fully credentialed and accredited?
• Am I a good candidate for this procedure?

What are the Risks Associated with a Breast Augmentation?

• Capsular contracture
• Implant failure
• Surgery complications such as scarring, infection, poor wound healing or excessive bleeding

How Can I Prepare for Breast Augmentation Surgery?

• Eat well
• Exercise
• Mental preparation

What to Expect During a Breast Augmentation Procedure?

• Anesthesia
• Incision — under the breast, outer edge of areola, armpit
• Implant positioning — usually under the muscle but may be over
• Closing incisions

What Should I Expect After the Procedure?

• Pain
• Muscle spasms
• Chest tightness
• Bruising
• Swelling

What If I'm Not Happy With My Breast Augmentation?

• Talk with your surgeon
• Best to wait six months to allow implants to settle and swelling to go down
• Can discuss getting a larger/smaller implant or adding a breast lift

How Much Does a Breast Augmentation Cost?

The price of the procedure can vary based on location, type of implants and any other complementary procedures, but usually breast augmentations can cost between $4,500 to $6,000 or more.

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Author Bio

Kate Bayless is an experienced freelance writer covering health and wellness for over 15 years. You can find her bylines online and in print at Women's Health, Parents, Livestrong, and OpenFit and others.

Meet the Expert

Dr. Todd Rau, a renowned, board-certified plastic and general surgeon from Redlands, California. Dr. Rau completed his general surgery residency at St. Agnes and John Hopkins Hospitals and his plastic surgery residency at Pennsylvania State University Hershey Medical Center. Dr. Rau has received multiple awards, recognized for his clinical and patient relationship skills.