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Expert Breast Surgery from a Surgeon Who Listens

Choosing breast augmentation is a deeply personal decision, and you deserve a plastic surgeon who takes the time to understand exactly what you're hoping to achieve. Dr. Dallas Buchanan, MD, FACS, has built his reputation on listening to his patients and delivering results that align with their vision. Board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and recognized as a "Top 10 Plastic Surgeon in Florida" for five consecutive years, Dr. Buchanan brings technical expertise, artistic sensibility, and genuine care to every breast augmentation he performs. Together with his wife, Michelle Buchanan, NP, APRN-C, and the entire VIVIFY team, he's performed over 5,000 procedures while treating every patient like family.

*Real Patient

What Is Breast Augmentation and How Does It Work?

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that enhances the size, shape, and symmetry of the breasts using implants, fat transfer, or a combination of both. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, it consistently ranks among the most popular cosmetic procedures performed each year, helping women achieve the fuller, more proportionate silhouette they desire.

How breast augmentation works:

  • Incisions are made in one of several locations: around the areola, in the breast crease, or in the armpit
  • A pocket is created either behind the breast tissue (subglandular) or behind the chest muscle (submuscular)
  • The chosen implant is carefully inserted and positioned for optimal shape and symmetry
  • Incisions are closed with sutures, and dressings are applied
  • The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours under general anesthesia or TIVA

Before & After Breast Augmentation in Tampa

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What Are the Benefits of Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation offers both physical and emotional benefits that can positively impact your quality of life and self-confidence.

Physical benefits of breast augmentation include:

  • Increases breast size to achieve your desired cup size and proportions
  • Enhances breast shape for a rounder, fuller, more youthful appearance
  • Corrects asymmetry so both breasts match in size and position
  • Restores volume lost after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss
  • Creates a better proportion between your breasts and the rest of your body
  • Improves how clothing and swimwear fit and look on your figure

Emotional and lifestyle benefits include:

  • Boosts self-confidence and body image in and out of clothing
  • Expands wardrobe options, including styles you may have avoided before
  • Enhances comfort during intimacy and physical activities
  • Provides long-lasting results that can be enjoyed for many years
  • Offers the opportunity to achieve the look you've always wanted
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Breast Augmentation Procedure Options

Breast Implants Breast Augmentation with Lift Motiva Preserve Breast Augmentation Breast Fat Grafting

Breast Augmentation vs Breast Lift

Breast augmentation focuses on adding volume to the breasts. This is typically achieved with implants (saline or silicone) or through fat transfer. If you are happy with the position of your breasts but desire more volume, augmentation is the ideal choice. On the other hand, a breast lift (mastopexy) focuses on repositioning the breast tissue higher on the chest to address sagging. It removes excess skin and tightens the surrounding tissue to lift the breasts to a more youthful position. A breast lift doesn't add volume, but instead focuses on creating a firmer, more youthful shape.

Learn more about Breast Lifts

Breast Augmentation vs Breast Lift

The Simple Difference: Volume vs Position

The key difference between breast augmentation and a breast lift boils down to two aspects: volume and position. Augmentation adds volume using implants or fat transfer. This procedure increases breast size and fullness, making the breasts appear larger and more rounded. A lift works on position by repositioning existing tissue and removing excess skin to raise the breasts to a more youthful position. It’s ideal for those who have experienced sagging or drooping. Both procedures solve different problems, which is why many women opt for a combination of both.

Learn more about Breast Augmentation with Lift

Breast Augmentation with Lift

The 3-Question Self-Assessment

Before deciding which procedure is right for you, ask yourself these three key questions: Are your nipples at or below the inframammary fold? If yes, you're likely in need of a breast lift. Do you want your breasts to be larger or just fuller-looking? If you want more size, breast augmentation is the best choice. Are you post-pregnancy or have you experienced significant weight loss? For women who have lost breast volume and experienced sagging, both procedures (augmentation + lift) may be necessary to restore both volume and position.

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The 3-Question Self-Assessment

Are You a Candidate for Breast Augmentation?

Ideal candidates for breast augmentation in Tampa, FL include:

  • Women who feel their breasts are too small for their body frame or personal preference
  • Patients with breast asymmetry who want more even, balanced proportions
  • Women who have lost breast volume due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight fluctuations
  • Individuals whose breasts never fully developed during puberty
  • Those in good overall health without conditions that impair healing
  • Non-smokers or those willing to quit before and after surgery
  • Patients with realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve
  • Women who are finished having children or understand that future pregnancy may affect results

Breast augmentation may not be ideal for:

  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women
  • Patients with active breast infections or certain medical conditions
  • Those who expect implants to correct significant sagging (a breast lift may be needed)
  • Individuals with unrealistic expectations about outcomes

What to Expect Before, During, and After Breast Augmentation

Before Your Breast Augmentation

  • Attend a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Buchanan to discuss your goals, concerns, and medical history
  • Try different implant sizers to visualize how various sizes will look on your frame
  • Review before-and-after photos of Dr. Buchanan's breast augmentation patients
  • Receive detailed pre-operative instructions, including medications and supplements to avoid
  • Stop smoking at least four weeks before and after surgery to support proper healing
  • Obtain any required lab work or medical clearance before your surgery date
  • Arrange for someone to drive you home and assist you for the first 24-48 hours
  • Prepare comfortable recovery clothing, including front-closure bras and loose tops

During Your Breast Augmentation

  • Arrive at VIVIFY's AAAHC-accredited surgical facility and meet your operative team
  • Receive general anesthesia or TIVA for your comfort throughout the procedure
  • Dr. Buchanan makes carefully placed incisions based on your pre-surgical plan
  • Implants are inserted and positioned with precision for optimal shape and symmetry
  • Incisions are closed and dressings are applied
  • The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours to complete
  • You'll recover in our private suite with a dedicated nurse before being discharged

After Your Breast Augmentation

  • Expect swelling, tightness, and discomfort for the first 1-2 weeks, managed with prescribed medication
  • Wear your surgical bra as directed to support healing and minimize swelling
  • Avoid lifting your arms above your head or lifting heavy objects for the first few weeks
  • Sleep on your back in an elevated position to reduce swelling
  • Return for follow-up appointments so Dr. Buchanan can monitor your healing
  • Most patients return to work within 1-2 weeks and resume exercise at 4-6 weeks
  • Implants will settle into their final position over 3-6 months as tissues relax
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Why Choose Dr. Buchanan for Breast Augmentation in Tampa?

What sets Dr. Buchanan apart:

  • Board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery ensures rigorous training in breast surgery techniques
  • Active membership in the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
  • Published author on breast surgery topics in medical textbooks and journals
  • A meticulous, personalized approach that considers your anatomy, proportions, and aesthetic goals
  • Access to the latest implant options from leading manufacturers, including Allergan, Sientra, and Mentor
  • An AAAHC-accredited surgical suite for the highest standards of safety and care
  • Over 150 five-star Google reviews reflecting patient satisfaction with his results and bedside manner
  • All-inclusive post-operative care with no hidden fees for follow-ups or supplies
Woman in Bikini Standing Under a Tree

Breast Augmentation After Pregnancy and Weight Loss

After pregnancy, many women experience a loss of breast volume and skin sagging simultaneously. While exercise and diet may help with weight management, they don't typically restore the fullness or shape lost during pregnancy. This is where breast augmentation comes in to restore volume.

Additionally, GLP-1 weight loss medications have become increasingly popular and often drive the need for combined procedures. As weight is lost, the breasts may sag and lose volume, making both a breast lift and augmentation necessary for a full, rejuvenated appearance.

Breast Augmentation Pricing and Consultation at VIVIFY

The cost of breast augmentation in Tampa varies based on several factors unique to your surgical plan. Because this is a cosmetic procedure, health insurance does not cover the cost. Dr. Buchanan provides transparent pricing during your consultation so you can make an informed decision.

Factors that influence your breast augmentation cost include:

  • The type of implants selected (silicone, saline, or structured saline)
  • Implant brand and specific product features
  • Whether additional procedures are combined, such as a breast lift
  • Anesthesia and facility fees for your surgery
  • All-inclusive post-operative care covering follow-ups, garments, and supplies

Financing options are available to help make your procedure more affordable. Speak with a VIVIFY patient care coordinator to explore your options.

Breast Implants FAQ

How do I choose the right implant size?

Will breast implants look natural?

How long do breast implants last?

Will I be able to breastfeed after augmentation?

What is capsular contracture?

How painful is breast augmentation recovery?

When can I exercise after breast augmentation?

Saline vs Silicone vs Structured Saline Breast Implants — Which Is Best?

What is the 'Dual Plane' Breast Implant Technique?

What Are the Risks and Complications of Breast Augmentation?

How do I choose the right implant size?

Dr. Buchanan helps you select the ideal size based on your body frame, chest width, existing breast tissue, and aesthetic goals. You'll try different sizers during your consultation to visualize how various options will look.

Will breast implants look natural?

When properly sized and placed by a skilled surgeon, breast implants can look very natural. Dr. Buchanan's goal is to create results that enhance your figure while complementing your overall proportions.

How long do breast implants last?

Breast implants are not considered lifetime devices, though many women enjoy their results for 10-20 years or longer. You may eventually need a revision to replace or remove your implants, but there's no predetermined expiration date.

Will I be able to breastfeed after augmentation?

Most women can breastfeed after breast augmentation, though results vary. Submuscular placement and incisions that avoid the areola may offer the best preservation of breastfeeding ability.

What is capsular contracture?

Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue that naturally forms around an implant tightens and hardens, potentially causing discomfort or aesthetic changes. Choosing a board-certified surgeon and following post-operative instructions can reduce this risk.

How painful is breast augmentation recovery?

Most patients describe the discomfort as tightness and pressure rather than sharp pain. Submuscular placement typically involves more initial discomfort than subglandular. Pain is well-managed with prescribed medication, and most patients transition to over-the-counter pain relievers within a few days.

When can I exercise after breast augmentation?

Light walking is encouraged soon after surgery to promote circulation. Most patients can return to lower-body exercises at 3-4 weeks and upper-body exercises at 6 weeks, following Dr. Buchanan's clearance.

Saline vs Silicone vs Structured Saline Breast Implants — Which Is Best?

Saline implants are filled with saltwater, adjustable, and firmer, but may feel less natural compared to silicone implants. Silicone implants are filled with cohesive gel and offer a more natural feel and appearance. Structured saline implants combine saline with an internal structure for a more natural look and feel, though they remain firmer than silicone. The best option depends on your goals, with silicone often preferred for a natural feel.

What is the 'Dual Plane' Breast Implant Technique?

The dual plane technique places the breast implant partially under the muscle and partially above it. This combines the benefits of both subglandular and submuscular placements, providing a more natural shape and better support, especially for women with moderate breast tissue.

What Are the Risks and Complications of Breast Augmentation?

The risks of breast augmentation include infection, capsular contracture (hardening of tissue around the implant), implant rupture, changes in nipple sensation, and potential asymmetry. Choosing an experienced surgeon helps minimize these risks and ensures a smoother recovery.

Schedule Your Breast Augmentation Consultation

If you've been dreaming of fuller, more shapely breasts that complement your figure, Dr. Dallas Buchanan and the VIVIFY team are here to make that vision a reality.

Contact VIVIFY Plastic Surgery today to schedule your consultation.

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