Breast Augmentation in Atlanta, GA

Breast augmentation surgery is a procedure that enlarges the breasts to result in a fuller appearance. It is generally known to be one of the most sought-after cosmetic surgeries, providing women who are unhappy with their breast shape effective options for improvement. Using implants or fat from the patient's body, this enhancement surgery improves breast shape and size and results in a desirable and youthful outcome. Double board-certified and fellowship-trained plastic surgeon Dr. Marisa Lawrence is experienced in executing this treatment and performs numerous breast augmentations every year. During your consultation at Marisa Lawrence Plastic Surgery, Dr. Lawrence will assess your concerns and desires and inform you of all of the options available while also customizing a surgical plan to attain your goals.

During your initial consultation with Dr. Lawrence, the correct implant will be selected based on your body frame, as well as your cosmetic goal. Implants for augmentation come in an assortment of sizes and profiles, as well as shapes and textures — all of which are taken into consideration in order to reach the desired aesthetic goal. Today, the most commonly used implant types are saline or silicone, both widely chosen and approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). It is important to mention that patients considering implants made with saline must be at least 18 years of age while patients must be a minimum of 22 years old in order to receive treatment with silicone. Other considerations include gummy bear implants and fat grafting (known as a fat transfer). Aside from the type of augmentation chosen, there are other distinct factors to consider.

Implant size is distinguished based on the number of CCs of silicone or saline used. To decide on the right amount, Dr. Lawrence will measure how much original tissue exists and the size you hope to achieve. During surgery, it is common for Dr. Lawrence to temporarily switch out various implants to get an idea on a better fit.

Breast implants come in either a round or teardrop shape. Both shapes are commonly used; however, most of our patients go with a round implant. It often looks and feels more natural and adds a fullness to the top of the breast that so many patients look for.

Breast implant profile equates to the projection. Meaning, this is what is visible from the side view. The most common projections include low to extra high ranges.

These options may be overwhelming, but determining the appropriate implant is easy once the patient's desires are discussed during the consultation. These considerations, coupled with the experience of Dr. Lawrence, help to ensure the right outcome is met.

The choice to go through with cosmetic breast surgery is personal. If you are thinking about having this procedure, it is important you do it for yourself and nobody else. You should be physically healthy with breasts that are fully developed and be the proper age to have implants. If you are dissatisfied with the size of your breasts because they seem small or asymmetrical, you may benefit from this cosmetic breast treatment. In addition, if your breasts have been affected by aging, nursing, or weight loss, this procedure can bring them back to life with increased volume. It is also a welcomed option if you work out with weights or have little to no original breast tissue.

Incision type, as well as implant placement, are considerations that are generally made ahead of surgery. During the procedure, an incision is created and then the appropriate breast implant will be slipped into its position. There are a couple of methods that may be chosen for implant placement. These include either submuscular placement (under the pec muscle) or submammary/subglandular placement (over the pec muscle). Where to place the implant is based on numerous factors, including the overall type and size of implant, along with the opinion of Dr. Lawrence. No matter where the incision is placed, scarring is generally unnoticeable. Implant placement is determined based on your body type, implant size, and lifestyle.

Breast augmentation is performed as an outpatient surgery using general anesthesia. Following the incision, the silicone or saline implant will be moved through the incision and deposited into a surgically created pocket, and then fitted into its proper position. Once the implant is in position, the incision is closed with sutures or surgical adhesives. All patients will be taken to a private recovery space and carefully monitored before being released. You will be sent home wearing a recovery compression bra to assist with swelling. Within a few days, the bruising and swelling will start to slowly go away, and the breasts will begin to feel normal as they fall into their new position. Patients can engage in normal activities within a few days; however, exercise should be avoided for roughly 6 – 8 weeks. Breast implant surgery results in beautiful outcomes that look and feel both normal and natural. This treatment, in most cases, can be life-changing for many women, allowing them the chance to feel more comfortable in their own skin.

How much does breast augmentation cost?
Your cost for breast augmentation will vary based on your choices and if you are having any other surgeries at the same time. As soon as your treatment plan is developed during your consultation, Dr. Lawrence or a member of her team will discuss estimated costs and financing options with you. To ensure your results match your goals and last a long time, it's important to focus on quality over costs.

Do I need a breast lift or augmentation?
Your plan may include breast augmentation, a lift, or both. A breast lift removes excess skin and improves the breasts while augmentation addresses the size and shape of the breasts. During your consultation with Dr. Lawrence, she will listen to your needs and goals before explaining your treatment options. A combination of breast augmentation and lift are often a part of a mommy makeover to rejuvenate the breasts after pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Can I breastfeed with implants?
If you want to breastfeed after breast augmentation, be sure to tell Dr. Lawrence during your consultation. It is usually possible to breastfeed after implants with the right surgical technique and placement. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can alter your results so it is best to wait until after you are done having children to have breast augmentation.

Can I have my implants removed?
You may decide at a later date that you want to replace or remove your implants. If this happens, Dr. Lawrence can perform breast revision surgery. During the revision surgery, your current implants can either be replaced with new implants or removed. If you choose to have your implants removed, you may need to have excess skin removed since larger implants can stretch your skin. If you have any questions or concerns after your augmentation surgery, schedule an appointment at Marisa Lawrence Plastic Surgery to discuss your options.

Do implants cause breast cancer?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is investigating a link between implants and anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL). This is not breast cancer, but cancer of the immune cells. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), implant-related ALCL is very rare and when caught early, it is easy to treat. Dr. Lawrence encourages all patients with implants to get regular screenings for breast cancer. You should contact Marisa Lawrence Plastic Surgery if you notice any concerns, such as swelling or other visible changes.

Breast enhancement surgery with implants is well sought out for so many reasons. This procedure is considered safe and produces exciting aesthetic results. With an abundance of available options, you can create the bustline you have always dreamed of. Marisa Lawrence Plastic Surgery is pleased to provide this proven surgery and we invite you to learn more. Contact our practice in Atlanta, GA to schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Marisa Lawrence.