Breast
Augmentation
in Novi, Michigan
Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure that enhances the size, shape, and symmetry of the breasts. At Illuum Cosmetic Surgery, our priority is to help you safely achieve your desired look with natural-looking results. We know that breast implant surgery is a very personal decision and involves a thorough and deliberate choice with careful consideration. Some patients come to us already having an idea of what type of implant want or how they wish to look. Others want our advice to help guide them through the implant selection process. Either way, our team, led by board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Lakin, and Dr. Ozolins will work with you to listen to your goals and come up with a customized solution to help you achieve the result you are looking for!
What Is Breast Augmentation Surgery?
Breast augmentation surgery, also known as mammoplasty, involves using breast implants or fat transfer breast augmentation to increase the volume of the breasts. This can improve their appearance and boost confidence and self-esteem. Here are some reasons why a woman might undergo a breast augmentation procedure:
Breast augmentation surgery can increase the size of the breasts to create a fuller and more proportionate look. The surgery can help women achieve their desired breast size, enhancing their overall appearance and improving self-confidence.
Women who have lost breast volume due to weight loss or pregnancy can benefit from breast augmentation surgery. The procedure can restore breast volume and shape, improving the breasts’ overall appearance.
Many women have asymmetrical breasts, which can cause embarrassment and self-consciousness. Breast augmentation surgery can help correct breast asymmetry, creating a more balanced and natural look.
Breast augmentation surgery can also be used as a reconstructive procedure for women who have undergone a mastectomy due to breast cancer. The procedure can help restore breast volume and shape, improving a woman’s self-confidence and quality of life.
Types of Breast Augmentation
We specialize in primary, secondary, and revision breast augmentations. There are two main types of breast enhancement, either through breast implants or fat transfer surgery. Here’s what you need to know about each option:
Breast Augmentation With Breast Implants
Breast augmentation with breast implants involves using artificial implants to increase breast size and improve the shape of the breasts. The surgery involves the placement of implants under or above the muscle, depending on the patient’s goals. Often, patients opt to place the implants under the muscle. At Illuum Cosmetic Surgery, we offer two types of breast implants: saline and silicone implants.
Saline Breast Implants
Saline breast implants are filled with sterile salt water and are placed empty in the breast pocket. Once in place, the implant is filled with the sterile saline solution.
One advantage of saline implants is that they can be shaped into different sizes, allowing for more breast shape and size customization. Saline implants are also less expensive than silicone gel implants.
Silicone/Gummy Bear Implants
Silicone breast implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel that feels like natural breast tissue. Women often prefer these implants because of their natural feel and look. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit each patient’s individual needs.
Gummy bear implants are silicone gel implants with a more cohesive gel filling, which helps maintain their shape over time.
Natural Breast Augmentation With Fat Transfer
Natural breast augmentation with fat transfer is an alternative to breast augmentation with implants. This procedure involves the transfer of fat from other parts of your body to your breasts to increase their size and shape. Usually, the excess fat is removed from the abdomen, waist, back, thighs, and/or arms, and processed before being injected into the breast area. It is ideal for women who prefer a more natural approach to breast augmentation. However, candidacy for fat transfer breast augmentation can vary based on patient goals. This surgery only provides one cup size of additional volume to the breast. This surgical procedure is excellent for women looking to enhance their breasts with minimal volume.
Choosing the Right Breast Implants
Implant size and shape selection involve an in-depth process of discussing your goals, looking at different-sized implants in our office, taking measurements, and reviewing goal photos. We find it helpful for patients to look and feel different sizes and profile implants in the exam room to get an idea of how the specific implant may look and feel. We look at your starting size and shape and discuss your goal size and shape. We consider your overall body frame, height and weight measurements, breast measurements, breast size and shape, and skin quality. The final implant selected varies based on each person’s unique anatomy and goals. No two women are the same size and shape starting out, nor are their goals the same, which means there are many variables to consider when selecting a breast implant. We use all implant sizes, profile shapes, and makes to provide patients with a customized solution to meet their goals and expectations.
Types of Breast Incisions for Implants
When considering breast augmentation with breast implants, it’s essential to understand the different breast augmentation incisions used to place the implants. The incisions for breast implant surgery are discretely placed on the breast via short scars closed with precise multiple-layer suture placement. Here are the two main types of breast incisions for implants:
Breast Fold | Inframammary Fold
The breast fold incision, also known as the inframammary fold incision, is made along the natural crease where the breast meets the chest wall. The implant is then placed in a pocket created either above or below the chest muscle.
The incision is well-concealed in the breast’s natural crease, which results in minimal scarring. Our surgeon will use a multiple-layer closing technique that allows the scar to heal better and fade away faster.
Areola | Periareolar Incision
The areola incision, also known as the periareolar incision, is made around the outer edge of the areola. This incision is ideal for women who want to minimize scarring, as the incision is well-concealed within the natural border of the areola.
One advantage of this breast augmentation incision is that it allows for precise implant placement, as the plastic surgeon has direct access to the breast tissue.
Who Is a Candidate for Breast Augmentation Surgery?
A breast augmentation consultation is always recommended if you are unsure about your candidacy. Here are some factors that determine whether you are a good candidate for breast augmentation surgery:
Good Overall Health
To be a candidate for breast augmentation, you should be in good overall health. This means you should not have any underlying medical conditions that could increase your risk of complications during or after surgery. Our plastic surgeon will evaluate your medical history and perform a physical exam to determine if you are a good candidate for this procedure.
Realistic Expectations
It’s essential to have realistic expectations of the results of breast augmentation. While this surgery can enhance the size and shape of your breasts, it cannot make you look just like someone else. Our board-certified plastic surgeon will discuss the potential risks and benefits of and help you set realistic expectations for your results.
Small or Asymmetrical Breasts or
Want to Restore Lost Breast Volume
Breast augmentation is ideal for women with asymmetrical breasts or those who want to restore lost breast volume due to weight loss, pregnancy, or aging. This surgery can also help improve the symmetry and balance of the breasts, resulting in a more proportionate and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
At Illuum Cosmetic Surgery, our Board-Certified Plastic Surgeons and our team will evaluate your needs and goals to determine if you are a good candidate for breast augmentation surgery. We will work with you every step of the way to ensure that you achieve the best possible results.
What Is the Recovery Process?
Recovery is rapid; most patients can return to work within three days if they work from home or have a desk job. Otherwise, we recommend waiting one week before returning to work. We will provide you with support garments and recommend using a sports bra that opens at the front for the first month after surgery. After one month, you can get resized to wear new bras with underwires.
Swelling, Bruising, and Discomfort
Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common after breast augmentation surgery. Pain medication and a muscle relaxant will be prescribe to help manage any discomfort you may experience during your recovery. It’s essential to expect some discomfort during the first few days after surgery, but it should gradually improve over time.
Duration of Recovery Before Exercising
Recovery duration after breast augmentation varies from patient to patient. You should avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting for four to six weeks after surgery to ensure proper healing.
What to Do and What Not to Do During Recovery
During your recovery, it is crucial to follow the plastic surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully to ensure optimal healing and minimize the risk of complications.
Do's
- Rest and get plenty of sleep to promote healing
- Take your prescribed medications as directed to manage any discomfort
- Wear a supportive bra or compression garment to help reduce swelling
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon to monitor your progress
Dont's
- Strenuous activities or heavy lifting for 4-6 weeks after surgery
- Smoking for at least four weeks before and after surgery as it can impair the healing process and increase the risk of complications
- Drinking alcohol for one week before and after surgery as it can interfere with your medications and increase the risk of complications
At Illuum Cosmetic Surgery, we provide our patients with detailed post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery. We will be with you every step of the way to ensure the best possible outcome from your breast augmentation surgery.
Cost of Breast Augmentation Surgery
in Michigan
The cost of breast augmentation surgery in Michigan can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of implant, the surgical technique used, and the surgeon’s experience. The general range for breast augmentation surgery ranges from $5,000 to $10,000.
At Illuum Cosmetic Surgery, we understand that cost is a vital patient consideration, so we strive to provide transparent and affordable pricing for all our services.
We offer an instant price estimator tool on our website to help patients get an idea of the potential cost of their breast augmentation. But the exact cost of the surgery will depend on each patient’s unique needs. You will receive an accurate quote during your breast augmentation consultation.
Cost should not be a barrier to achieving your aesthetic goals, which is why we offer financing options to help make breast augmentation surgery more manageable for our patients.
Combination Surgeries
Breast augmentation surgery is often performed with other plastic surgery procedures to achieve more complete results.
Breast Surgeries
Breast Lift
Breast lift surgery, or mastopexy, is often performed with breast augmentation procedures to lift and reshape sagging breasts. This procedure can also help improve the overall shape and position of the breasts for a more youthful and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Breast SilhouetchSM
This is our signature high-definition liposuction technique for highlighting the natural curvatures of the breast. This can be combined with a breast augmentation surgery to further define the breast curves. We perform liposuction in the areas surrounding the breast, including the upper abdomen, back bra rolls, upper back, and front bra rolls, to sculpt the naturally-appearing breast tissue. Combined with breast augmentation, this will increase the overall aesthetics of the final result.
Body Contouring Surgeries
Mommy Makeover
A mommy makeover combines plastic surgery procedures designed to help women restore their pre-pregnancy body shape. This procedure typically includes breast augmentation surgery, a tummy tuck, and liposuction to address issues such as sagging breasts, excess skin and fat in the abdominal area, and stubborn pockets of fat in other body areas. Learn more about our Mommy Makeover surgeries.
Liposuction
Liposuction is a popular plastic surgery procedure that can be performed in combination with breast augmentation surgery to remove excess fat from targeted areas of the body. This procedure can help contour and sculpt the body for a more toned and streamlined appearance. Learn more about our Liposuction and Lipo 360 surgeries.
A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a plastic surgery procedure that can be performed in combination with breast augmentation surgery to remove excess skin and fat from the abdominal area. This procedure can also help tighten the underlying muscles of the abdomen for a flatter, more toned midsection. Learn more about our tummy tucks surgeries.
What to Expect During the Consultation
At Illuum Cosmetic Surgery, we believe every patient is unique and requires a personalized approach to their breast augmentation surgery. During your initial consultation with our plastic surgeon, you can expect the following:
Patient Evaluation
Comprehensive evaluation of your overall health and medical history to determine if you are a good candidate for breast augmentation surgery. He will also examine the size and shape of your breasts, skin quality, and nipple placement to help determine the best surgical approach for you. He will also discuss the potential risks and complications associated with breast implant surgery, including breast implant illness, breast implant rupture, and breast pain.
Discussion of Options
A discussion about the various options available for breast augmentation surgery, including the types of breast implants, incision locations, and surgical techniques. He will also explain the benefits and risks associated with each option to help you make an informed decision.
Realistic Outcomes
During your consultation, our plastic surgeon will discuss your expectations for your surgery and ensure that they are realistic and achievable. We believe that patient education and communication are essential to achieving successful outcomes for our breast augmentation patients.
Frequently Asked Questions about Breast Augmentation
Is Breast Augmentation Surgery Painful?
Patients can expect some discomfort and pain after breast augmentation surgery, which can be managed with pain medication and a muscle relaxant prescribed by our plastic surgeon. The level of pain and discomfort can vary from patient to patient.
How Long Do the Results of Breast Augmentation Surgery Last?
Breast augmentation surgery results are long-lasting, but it is important to note that breast implants are not lifetime devices and may require replacement or removal in the future. The longevity of the results can also depend on factors such as weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and aging.
How Long Does Breast Augmentation Surgery Take?
The length of breast augmentation surgery can vary depending on the surgical technique, but it typically takes 1–2 hours to complete.
Is Breast Augmentation Worth Getting?
The decision to undergo breast surgery is personal, and each patient should weigh the benefits and potential risks carefully. Dr. Lakin can discuss the procedure’s potential benefits and help you determine if it is the right choice for you.
What Is the Best Age to Get a Breast Augmentation?
There is no specific age requirement for breast augmentation surgery, but the ideal age for breast augmentation is after 18 years old. Good health and stable weight are also important. If you consider silicone implants, you will have to wait until you are 22 years old to get surgery if you want your warranty to be valid.
Why Do Implants Usually Get Placed Under the Muscle?
This reduces visibility, rippling, and the risk of capsular contracture compared to placement above the muscle.
Why Do You Prefer Placing the Implants Through the Areola?
We prefer placing the implant through the areola because there is less visible scarring and exposure is better from a surgical standpoint. We have not seen an increase in infection, nipple sensation changes, lactation changes, or capsular contracture using this approach. The scar is hidden in the natural line between the areola and skin compared to the incision along the breast fold that can be visible when the patient lifts their arms in a bikini.
Should I Massage My Breast Implants After Surgery?
Yes, we will instruct you on the timing and method for breast massage. This is to help prevent capsular contracture and keeps the breasts feeling soft and natural. Most primary breast augmentation patients can begin breast massage one week after surgery. In short, this includes massage movements down, up, and inward. Never massage in the outward direction because we want to avoid displacing the breasts out of their pockets to the sides.
Will There Be Scarring After Breast Augmentation Surgery?
Yes, there will be scarring after breast augmentation surgery, but the extent and visibility of the scars can vary depending on the type of incision used. Our board-certified plastic surgeons use advanced techniques to minimize scarring and will discuss your best options during your consultation.
How Do I Prepare for Breast Augmentation Surgery?
Patients should follow all pre-operative instructions provided by Dr. Lakin and the surgical team, which may include abstaining from certain medications or supplements, avoiding smoking for at least four weeks before and after surgery, and arranging for transportation on the day of the surgery.
When Can I Return to Work?
Patients can usually return to work and resume light activities as early as 3 days after surgery, with the remainder of patients returning within a week after surgery, but it is important to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for several weeks.
Are There Any Risks or Complications?
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks and potential complications associated with breast surgery. Dr. Lakin will discuss these risks with you during your consultation and answer any questions.
Can Breast Implant Procedure Affect Breastfeeding?
Breast implants should not affect breastfeeding, but it is important to note that breast surgery can sometimes interfere with the ability to breastfeed. Dr. Lakin will discuss any potential impact on breastfeeding during your consultation.
What Is Recovery Like After Breast Implant Surgery?
Recovery is rapid, and you will be prescribed some pain medications and muscle relaxants. You will notice swelling and possibly bruising during your first week after surgery. Then the swelling will start to go down, and the implants will settle as your muscles relax. By one month post-op, you should start to see your final result. Your final result will be visible by three to six months post-op.
What Types of Patients Prefer Implants Placed Above the Muscle?
Patients who prefer implants placed above the muscle are usually bodybuilders because they risk having an “animation deformity” due to muscle contraction over their implant.
Do You Place Implants Through the Breast Fold?
Yes, when patients have an areola which is too small to place an implant through, the next choice is to place the implant through the breast fold. Also, if the patient had a previous implant placed through the fold, we will reuse the same incision. Or if the patient has a specific preference to utilize the breast fold, we will place the implant through the fold upon request.
Whether you’re seeking the expert guidance of Dr. Lakin or Dr. Ozolins, or have a clear idea of your needs, scheduling a consultation is the obvious and easy next step. Meet and sit down with one of Michigan’s premier plastic surgeons and start your journey into illuminating the best version of yourself.
