Breast Augmentation | Breast Implants

In her Portland, OR area plastic surgery practice, Dr. Elisa Burgess offers breast augmentation with saline or silicone implants, as one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries available.  This surgical procedure enhances breast volume and fullness to improve a woman's appearance.  There are multiple reasons for undergoing breast augmentation, including:

• To provide greater volume to breasts for those that feel their breast size is generally too small
• To enhance body proportion or to create symmetry between two unequal breasts
• To regain the breast shape that women may have had prior to having children or weight loss
• To increase self-confidence

See more breast augmentation Portland before and after photos.

Click here to see breast augmentation nine year progression photos.

Am I an ideal candidate for breast augmentation?

Breast augmentation surgery is one of the most common cosmetic procedures in the country. Ideal recipients of breast augmentation should be capable of weighing the benefits and risks of the procedure, as well as be making an autonomous decision—the patient wishes to undergo the surgery by her own choice. Women should be in good health and over the age of 18 years with good family support.  If over the age of 30, one should have a healthy mammogram within one year of surgery.  One should not be pregnant or nursing and preferably nonsmoking.

When considering breast augmentation surgery, you have many options to consider:

Saline or silicone breast implants may be used during your breast augmentation. Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater during surgery.  Because they are initially empty, they can be placed through a small incision and are adjustable. Silicone implants come pre-filled and sometimes require a slightly larger incision.  Some people believe silicone has a more natural feel.  Currently, the FDA recommends that a woman be at least 22 years of age and understand that other studies (like an MRI) may be recommended to follow the silicone implant.  However, it is important to keep up with breast exams, mammograms, and other breast studies for your general breast health regardless of the type of implant chosen.

Implant size is another decision.  With Dr. Burgess, you receive complimentary implant sizing, so you can feel confident that you will receive implants that conform to your desires and body type. Breast implants come in different shapes and varying sizes, typically ranging from 200 to 600ml. When choosing an implant, the basic goal is to increase projection of the breasts while maintaining a proportional appearance.

The implant placement (typically below the muscle),  implant profile (low, medium or high projection) as well as the implant diameter, are also considered prior to surgery.  Incision is typically in the breast crease or around the areola (pigmented area aound the nipple) but other options will be discussed at your consultation. 

What will the breast augmentation procedure be like?

The procedure itself takes around one hour to complete and is done with under anesthesia. Dr. Burgess will make the incision and a pocket is created for each implant by lifting the muscle, breast tissue, and skin. The implant is then inserted and centered below the nipple. Once completed, the incisions are closed with sutures and adhesive surgical tape is applied.  A special implant supporting bra is applied following surgery to assist in holding the implants in the desired position.

What can I expect during my recovery from breast augmentation?

Standard breast augmentation surgery is outpatient surgery, so patients typically go home the same day with friends or family.  You should prepare for 1-2 weeks of recovery and will wear a special bra during this time. Individualized instructions will be given with regard to breast massage and length of time to wear the special bra.  Dr. Burgess will encourage you to walk around after surgery and your pain can be managed with medication. It is imperative to avoid any strenuous activity or heavy lifting for at least 4 weeks. Traveling long distances is not recommended in the first month following surgery.  Ensure that you attend all scheduled exams following surgery and understand that implants are not guaranteed to last a lifetime and may require future revision surgery.

As with any surgical procedure, complications and side effects are possible and may include changes in nipple sensation, hematoma or seroma, infection or inflammation, implant rupture, implant position issues, scar formation, or other unforeseen risks. 

Breast Augmentation Portland

Women interested in learning more about breast augmentation in Portland area are encouraged to contact Dr. Burgess in her Lake Oswego plastic surgery practice.