Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation adds volume to the breasts using implants or fat transferred from another area of your body. You may be considering it to address naturally smaller breasts, volume changes after pregnancy or weight loss, or differences in breast size.

At SARA Surgery in Morton Grove, Dr. Sara R. Dickie helps you compare options in the context of your anatomy, preferences, and long-term care needs. The consultation focuses on the change you want and what is reasonably achievable.

Implants and Fat Grafting

Breast Implants

Implant planning involves more than selecting a volume. Your breast dimensions, existing tissue, skin, and desired shape help guide discussions about implant type, profile, placement, and incision location. Saline and silicone implants have different characteristics; Dr. Dickie can explain the options appropriate for you.

Fat Transfer

Fat grafting uses liposuction to collect fat from another area, which is then prepared and transferred to the breasts. It generally suits a more modest increase. Some transferred fat may not survive, so the retained volume varies and additional treatment may be considered. Suitability depends on available donor fat and the change you want.

Read the ASPS breast augmentation overview for background on implants and fat transfer.

Choosing Size, Shape, and Placement

Describe your goals in practical terms: how you would like clothing to fit, the fullness you prefer, and the activities important to you. Bra cup sizes vary between manufacturers and cannot serve as a guaranteed surgical outcome.

Ask how implant placement might affect your recovery and exercise routine. Bring your medical and surgical history, current medications, and breast screening information. Discuss future pregnancy, breastfeeding plans, and any personal or family history of breast disease.

Do You Also Need a Breast Lift?

Adding volume does not necessarily correct a low breast or nipple position. A lift reshapes and raises the breast by removing excess skin. Some patients benefit from augmentation alone, while others need a lift or a combined approach.

Our article on breast augmentation versus breast lift explains the distinction. You can also explore our breast surgery options.

Recovery and Returning to Activity

Expect instructions about dressings, support garments, incision care, medication, and follow-up visits. Arrange help with transport and tasks involving lifting or reaching. Time away from work depends on your duties and surgical plan.

Resume exercise according to Dr. Dickie’s directions, particularly when an implant is placed partly beneath the chest muscle. Early appearance can change as swelling settles. The ASPS recovery guide outlines topics to discuss before surgery.

Risks and Long-Term Implant Care

Breast implants are not lifetime devices. Additional surgery may be needed for complications or changes in your preferences. Implant risks include rupture, capsular contracture, displacement, and changes in sensation. Rare implant-associated cancers and reported systemic symptoms also belong in the informed-consent discussion. Review the FDA’s breast implant risk information.

All augmentation surgery carries risks such as bleeding, infection, scarring, asymmetry, healing problems, and anesthesia complications. Fat grafting has distinct risks, including fat necrosis and changes that may require breast imaging assessment. Ask how routine screening and any implant surveillance will be managed. Results cannot be guaranteed.

Questions About Breast Augmentation

Can I choose a subtle change?

Yes, a smaller increase can be discussed. The achievable shape depends on your tissue and anatomy, so bring examples of your preferences without expecting an exact match.