Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is a cosmetic breast surgery that is performed to enhance the shape and size of the breasts using silicone breast implants. This procedure is an extremely common plastic surgery among women for many different reasons such as:
- • Restore breast volume that was lost due to age or pregnancy
- • Increase the size of naturally small breasts
- • Improve balance or accentuate the feminine silhouette
- • Feel whole again following breast cancer surgery.
Whatever your reasons, Dr. Kolder can provide you with the best breast appearance you want with a customized breast augmentation procedure. We offer consultations at both our Camarillo and Santa Barbara offices.
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Your Breast Augmentation Consultation
Dr. Kolder will help you to make informed decisions about your breast enhancement during your consultation. He will work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan based on your personal aesthetic goals and anatomy.
Pre-surgical mammography is often recommended to establish a baseline of your existing breast tissues. Current medical studies do not indicate an increased risk of breast disease or breast cancer in women who have artificial implants for cosmetic or reconstructive reasons.
Patients having breast augmentation surgery should be advised that having breast implants may lead to additional future surgery and possible replacement, as the implants cannot be expected to last indefinitely.
During your consultation, Dr. Kolder will cover the details of the procedure, as well as the many options you have to customize your own enhancement. He will go through the specific surgery steps, benefits, and recovery time of the breast augmentation procedure. He will also help you to make informed decisions regarding the:
- Type of breast implant (silicone or saline).
- Placement of the implants (subglandular or submuscular)
- Incision location, and more.
Check out our breast augmentation photo gallery to see our patients’ before and after photos so you know what kind of results you can expect.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Your breast augmentation will be performed under general anesthesia on an outpatient basis at our surgery center. This surgery will be performed by making an incision in the location discussed during your consultation, and placing your chosen breast implants beneath the skin–either on top of the chest muscles (subglandular), or beneath them (submuscular).
If you are also experiencing some sagging of the breasts, you may benefit from a breast lift in addition to a breast augmentation. This will help to avoid a flat or droopy appearance.
Vectra 3-D Imaging System
Our facility offers the latest technology to help you visualize your breast surgeries, including our VECTRA 3-D imaging system. This system provides simulated, 3-D results to explore possible implant options while educating you on potential limitations and the appropriate expectations.
To see a simulated view of your upcoming breast surgery and learn more about the
Vectra Imaging system, please contact us for a consultation today!
Recovering from Breast Augmentation
The entire breast augmentation recovery process takes several weeks, but you may feel well enough to return to work within seven days. You should have someone with you for the first 24 hours. During that time, you should not be left alone. You should make arrangements to have someone take you home, even if you use our car service.
During the first 24 hours, you are encouraged to rest. However, you should not spend all your time in bed. You will need to get up and walk around for five minutes every hour, except when you go to sleep.
Breast Augmentation FAQs
How much does breast augmentation cost?
The cost of breast implant surgery depends on many factors. In addition to the surgeon’s fee, there are anesthesia costs, operating room facility fees, and other expenses. Breast augmentation costs also depend on the type of breast implant and the details of your procedure. You can get a more accurate cost estimation, based on the specifics of your surgery, at your breast implant consultation with us.
What’s the best age to get breast implants?
Women getting saline breast implants must be at least 18 years old, and those getting silicone implants must be at least 22. Outside of those age restrictions, there is no single best age to get breast implants, though the most common age range for this procedure is in the 20s to 30s. Some women wait to get breast implants until after having children, though this is not required to be a good candidate.
How do I choose the best breast augmentation plastic surgeon near me?
Asking friends and family in your location is a great place to start your search for a breast augmentation plastic surgeon near you. Narrow your search by looking at the practice’s website to verify medical credentials such as certification with the American Board of Plastic Surgery, viewing before and after breast implant photos, and reading reviews from past clients. Finally, schedule a consultation with your top one or two choices to find the one that best fits your needs and preferences.
How soon can I return to work after breast augmentation?
Most women can return to work in 7 to 10 days after getting breast implants. However, this can depend on how physically demanding your job is. Everyone will recover at their own pace, so listen to your body and communicate with Dr. Kolder to easily navigate your breast augmentation recovery timeline.
When will I see my breast augmentation results?
Breast augmentation results will gradually develop over the weeks and months following your procedure. It can take up to three months for your implants to “drop and fluff,” when they soften and settle into a lower, more natural position on your chest. When this occurs, you should have a good idea of the final outcome, though it can take up to six months for your results to fully develop.
How long do breast implants last?
Most saline and silicone implants can last for 10 to 20 years, though some women can go a lifetime without needing a breast implant replacement. The longevity of your breast implants can depend on several factors including the type of implants you have, surgical techniques used, how old you were when you had your breast augmentation, and lifestyle habits.
Some signs that you may require a breast implant replacement include:
- You have pain or discomfort
- Your implants have “bottomed out”
- One or both breast implants have deflated or ruptured
- Your breast implants have moved or changed in shape
Results
Once your breast augmentation surgery is complete, you will notice an immediate change in the shape and size of your breasts. However, you will need to wear a special surgical bra or compression garment for the first couple of weeks to help with the healing process.
There may be some bruising and swelling at first, but this will gradually improve as your body heals. Your incision lines will fade and flatten, and they should be easily hidden beneath a bra or bikini top.
Our breast augmentation patients often experience a positive boost in their self-confidence. You will likely feel more comfortable in all of your favorite tops and excited to try on new styles that complement your new figure.
The goal of our breast augmentation surgery is to provide women with natural-looking feminine curves that bring out the woman they have always felt like on the inside.
Next Steps
For more information about breast augmentation, please contact us online or call our Camarillo or Santa Barbara office to schedule your consultation.
Breast Augmentation FAQs
When deciding on a breast implant size, it is best to consider your overall body proportion. We will work with you to find an implant that best matches your goals.
After breast augmentation surgery, you can expect to have some pain, especially in the first couple of days. This is normal and can most often be managed with prescription pain medications. Within a few days, over-the-counter pain medications should be able to relieve any discomfort.
While breast augmentation surgery is a relatively safe procedure, all surgeries come with potential risks. Some of the most common risks include problems with anesthesia, bleeding, or implant rupture and leakage. We will go over your medical history during the consultation and address any possible concerns.
- Stop Smoking. Smoking can adversely affect the healing process.
- Avoid Certain Medications. Avoid things like aspirin, anti-inflammatory medications and herbal supplements as these can increase bleeding risk.
- Plan for Your Recovery. Pick up all your prescription medications before your procedure. Go shopping and make sure you have everything you need for recovery. Enlist the help of family and friends for your recovery period.
