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About Breast Augmentation

Implants are available in a multitude of sizes, shapes, and materials to help a patient look and feel their absolute best. The most popular choice among implants is silicone because of its natural look and feel. Saline implants are another popular option because they can be less expensive than their silicone counterparts, placed through smaller incisions, and ruptures can be easily detected without imaging.

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Procedure

The surgery typically takes between one and two hours from start to finish. In most cases, a general anesthetic is used; however, it can be performed under local anesthetic with sedation if needed. The size and type of implant will dictate which kind of incision Dr. Buchanan will use to insert the implant. Every incision has its advantages and disadvantages, but the most common incision with the least risk of complications is an incision in the fold underneath the breast. An important factor to consider when deciding on what type of incision is scarring. However, with meticulous surgical technique and tension-free closure, we can reduce the size and visibility of your scars.

What Does Recovery Look Like?

Once you receive a breast augmentation in Tampa, FL, the recovery process is relatively fast. Most patients find that they can return to regular activity 24 hours post-operation. We recommend giving yourself time to heal and allowing at least three to seven days before returning to work.

Vigorous exercise is discouraged for at least two weeks post-surgery to avoid early complications. After that, you can return to regular exercise except for any chest activity (pushing, pulling, and heavy lifting), which will be limited until six weeks after surgery. 

However, we recommend moderate, light movement as soon as possible after surgery to encourage blood circulation. Approximately three to six months post-surgery, the patient can see the final results after the swelling abates and the implants “drop” into their fixed position.

Alternatives to Implants

If you want a relatively small increase in breast size or prefer a more natural look, Dr. Buchanan can discuss the alternatives of fat transfer or auto-augmentation, both of which use your natural breast tissue for enhancement.

Fat Transfer

Rather than undergoing breast augmentation surgery with implants, fat transfer, also known as fat grafting, takes fat from one part of the body, such as the abdomen or thighs, and transfers it to the breasts to increase volume and improve shape. The procedure involves harvesting the fat using liposuction, processing it to remove impurities, and then injecting it into the breasts. Fat transfer is often used to enhance breast size, improve symmetry, and correct minor deformities.

Auto-Augmentation

Auto-augmentation, on the other hand, involves using a woman's own breast tissue to create a fuller, more lifted appearance without the need for implants. The procedure involves reshaping the existing breast tissue to create a more defined upper pole and a rounded lower pole. This is done by repositioning the existing breast tissue and creating an internal bra-like structure to support the breast. The technique benefits women with excess breast tissue but lack fullness in the upper pole of the breast. These surgical options are usually reserved for patients who have not had prior breast surgery (implants, lift, etc). 

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Risks of Breast Augmentation

Displacement, or having an implant shift out of place, is one risk associated with this surgery. This complication can cause asymmetrical breasts and increase the likelihood of rupturing the implant. Displacement may also require repeat surgery.

It is estimated that approximately one implant out of every ten (10%) will rupture within ten years of breast augmentation surgery. If this happens, in most cases, a plastic surgeon will be needed in order to replace the ruptured implant.

Scar tissue that forms around an implant can become stiff or tight around the implant. This is referred to as capsular contracture and occurs at a rate of 10-20% at ten years. This complication almost always requires additional surgery to correct.

Finding the Right Plastic Surgeon

When searching for a breast augmentation procedure in Tampa, FL, it's crucial to choose a surgeon board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). Board-certified plastic surgeons undergo a rigorous training program of at least 6-8 years after medical school, ensuring they are highly skilled in both reconstructive and aesthetic plastic surgery. It's important to note that not all "cosmetic" or "aesthetic" surgeons are board-certified plastic surgeons and, therefore, do not possess the same level of training and expertise. To ensure the best possible outcome and minimize the risk of complications, it's essential to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon for your breast augmentation procedure.

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Why Choose VIVIFY?

VIVIFY plastic surgery & medspa believes in providing a personalized experience for each patient. Our team takes the time to listen to your concerns and goals, and we work with you to create a customized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. We prioritize building long-term relationships with our patients and strive to provide the best possible outcomes and future care. At VIVIFY, we are committed to quality. Dr. Dallas Buchanan is a highly skilled and experienced board-certified plastic surgeon in Tampa with over nine years of medical practice. We understand that cosmetic procedures can significantly impact our patients' lives, and we take pride in providing a comfortable and welcoming environment to ensure a positive experience. With VIVIFY, you can trust that you are in good hands and will receive high-end service.

How much does a breast augmentation cost? Prices starting at $8,500

The cost of breast implants in Tampa can vary significantly based on the complexity of your case. As it is a cosmetic enhancement procedure, health insurance companies do not cover the cost. The total price of the procedure may include the following:

  • Anesthesia fees
  • Operating room costs
  • Compression garments for post-surgery
  • Surgeon fees

However, the initial cost may not include additional fees such as blood tests, pre-operative testing, medical clearance exams, and prescription medications.

Several other factors can influence the cost of the procedure, such as:

  • The surgeon's experience and reputation
  • The techniques used for the procedure
  • The complexity of the case

For instance, highly experienced or reputable surgeons may charge more, and the complexity of the case can affect the cost of the procedure. Additionally, the location of the surgeon's practice can also impact the cost of the procedure, as larger cities often have higher operational costs. If you are interested in breast augmentation but have financial constraints, you can discuss financing options with Dr. Buchanan or any VIVIFY staff members. They offer financing plans to assist patients in achieving their surgical goals.

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FAQ

Do implants cause breast cancer?

Will a breast augmentation prevent me from breastfeeding?

How old do I have to be for breast augmentation?

How much will the surgery cost?

How much pain will I be in after the surgery?

How long do implants last?

How do I know what size is right for me?

How long will swelling last?

When can I start working out again?

When will my breasts “drop?”

What bras should I wear after surgery?

How much time do I need off from work after breast augmentation surgery in Tampa, FL?

Do implants cause breast cancer?

Research has shown that silicone implants do not cause breast cancer. The implants may make it more challenging to find tumors by traditional methods, such as a mammogram, which could delay a cancer diagnosis. Also, there is a minimal but increased risk of developing a rare type of cancer of the immune system called breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). This cancer can form in the breast tissue but is not the same as breast cancer. This cancer has only been associated with textured breast implants, which are not commonly used for most augmentations.

Will a breast augmentation prevent me from breastfeeding?

For most women, breast implants do not prohibit them from breastfeeding. However, roughly 1% to 5% of women who do not have breast implants cannot breastfeed for other medical reasons, and there is no way of knowing before surgery if you fall within this statistic.

How old do I have to be for breast augmentation?

By FDA standards, a woman must be at least 18 to receive saline breast implants and at least 22 to receive silicone implants.

How much will the surgery cost?

The cost of breast augmentation surgery will vary depending on where you have the procedure done and what type of implants you choose. Additionally, if a breast lift is needed, this will also affect the cost of the surgery. The only way to get an exact price quote is to come in for a consultation.

How much pain will I be in after the surgery?

You can expect to have some mild discomfort and pain after breast augmentation surgery. Pain depends on the placement of the implant. In general, submuscular placement is more painful than subglandular placement. Pain is manageable with the proper pain treatment. About 3-7 days post-op, most patients are off strong pain medications and can use an over-the-counter pain reducer, like Tylenol.

How long do implants last?

Generally speaking, implants have no expiration date. However, they are not meant to be lifetime devices. There is a good chance that over the implant's life, you may have to have a revision procedure to replace the implant and/or alter the breast size or shape around the implant.

How do I know what size is right for me?

A discussion with your board-certified plastic surgeon is the best way to find the implant size that is right for you. The ultimate decision will depend on your anatomy, measurements, and overall goals. We also utilize Crisalix, a virtual reality 3D imaging software that can help to visualize different implants on a patient’s 3D rendering to assist in making implant selections.

How long will swelling last?

The swelling should be mostly gone by six weeks. The final results may take up to 3-6 months to be revealed. For more information, please contact our office to schedule a free consultation with Dr. Buchanan.

When can I start working out again?

As mentioned above, vigorous exercise is discouraged for a minimum of two weeks post-surgery to avoid early complications. After that, you can return to regular exercise except for any chest activity (pushing, pulling, and heavy lifting), which will be limited for six weeks after surgery. After six weeks, you can gradually ease back into your everyday routine.

When will my breasts “drop?”

Breasts will fall into their final position typically three to six months post-op.

What bras should I wear after surgery?

We recommend elastic, stretchy bras or a surgical compression bra after surgery. Avoid bras with an underwire or lots of internal padding and structure until six weeks after surgery. You want a bra that offers snug compression and good support without being overly tight and distorting the breasts.

How much time do I need off from work after breast augmentation surgery in Tampa, FL?

We typically recommend anywhere from three to seven days, depending on your individual circumstance and work requirements. Discuss your specific work duties with Dr. Buchanan if there are any questions.

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