Breast augmentation is performed for cosmetic and reconstructive purposes.
Women who choose cosmetic breast enlargement often do so to boost their self-confidence, improve self-image, and balance out body proportions. Breast augmentation with implants is also performed to reconstruct a natural breast shape after a mastectomy.
Breast augmentation is the most common type of cosmetic procedure in the US. For many women, it’s not just about having larger breasts. They choose the procedure to correct asymmetry, restore breast volume after pregnancy, and correct other concerns. Skilled plastic surgeons approach breast augmentation as an individualized procedure that is tailored to the unique desires of each woman.
Breast augmentation, often referred to as a “boob job,” is a surgical procedure that uses implants or fat transfer to change the size and shape of the breasts. A plastic surgeon may recommend the procedure to give the breasts a rounder appearance, improve breast symmetry, and restore lost breast volume. Breast augmentation may be combined with breast lift surgery to address sagging.
Schedule onlineSilicone or saline breast implants are placed under the breast tissue or chest muscles. Fat transfer is another technique that is used to improve breast shape and size, although it is typically reserved for women who only need minor changes to their breasts.
Excess fat is harvested from another area of your body, such as your hips, thighs, or abdomen. The fat is purified and injected into the breast area just under the skin. Some plastic surgeons use fat transfers as part of the implant procedure to correct dimples and sculpt the breast shape.
Breast augmentation surgery can:
Pros: Long-lasting results – average of 10 years or longe; Larger, fuller breasts; Balanced, youthful silhouette; Range of implant sizes, shapes, textures, and materials.
Cons: Risk of scar tissue that distorts implant shape; May be affected by weight loss or pregnancy; May need replacement; Risk of chronic breast pain, infection, bleeding, and changes in sensation; Risk of implant rupture or leaking
These are the most frequently asked questions about breast augmentation.
Ask a questionAny type of surgery produces scars. An experienced plastic surgeon uses the minimum number of incisions for breast enlargement. Additionally, the incisions are made in areas where scarring is not obvious, such as in the breast crease, around the areola, and in the armpit area.
There are four basic techniques that are used for breast augmentation. Some plastic surgeons combine techniques in certain cases to achieve the best result.
Inframammary breast augmentation requires a short incision in the crease below the breast (the inframammary fold). The scar from this technique is usually one to two inches and is well-concealed. Inframammary breast enlargement allows the surgeon to use larger implants compared to other techniques.
Peri-areolar breast augmentation requires an incision around the edge of the areola, and the scar is camouflaged within the darker pigmentation of the skin. This type of incision is most often used when a breast lift is performed in conjunction with the breast enlargement.
Trans-axillary breast augmentation requires a small incision in the armpit area, and the implant is inserted from the side of the breast area. The technique also involves the use of a specialized camera and instruments for optimal positioning of the implant. Trans-axillary augmentation produces a small scar within the armpit, and there is no scar on the breast.
Trans-umbilical
For the trans-umbilical technique, the plastic surgeon makes an incision just above the belly button. The implants are inserted through the incision and positioned in the breast area. There is no scar in the breast area, only around the belly button.
Prior to your breast augmentation surgery, meet with a qualified plastic surgeon to discuss the feasibility of the procedure. The surgeon also describes the various implant options. Each type of implant produces a slightly different aesthetic based on size, feel, and appearance. Ensure that you understand the limitations of breast enlargement, such as not correcting sagging breasts.
Discuss the risks and potential complications of breast augmentation with the surgeon, as well as any challenges with mammograms and breastfeeding. The appointment should also include a thorough review of the costs of the surgery. Please note that cosmetic breast augmentation is not covered by insurance, and you are responsible for the entire cost. Some insurances may cover a portion of breast augmentation after a mastectomy, but you should verify coverage with your insurance carrier.
Your plastic surgeon may require a baseline mammogram prior to the surgery. You may also need to stop taking certain medications and stop smoking. Discuss these aspects of the procedure with your plastic surgeon and your primary care doctor.
Arrange for someone to take you to the surgical appointment and pick you up after you are released from recovery. You’ll also need someone to stay with you for at least the first 24 hours.
Breast augmentation surgical is performed in a surgical facility or hospital, and you may be released the same day. General anesthesia is required for the surgery.
During the procedure, the surgeon makes an incision (usually either inframammary, axillary, or peri-areolar). A pocket for the implant is created by separating the breast tissue from the connective tissue and muscles. The surgeon makes the pocket either on top of or under pectoral muscle. The implant is inserted through the incision into the pocket and positioned under the nipple.
Silicone implants are pre-filled, and saline implants are not filled. Once a saline implant is positioned in the breast area, it is filled with sterile saline. Once the surgeon is satisfied with the position of the implant, the incision is closed with sutures, and the breast area is wrapped with compression bandages.
You can tailor the final results of your breast augmentation surgery by choosing specific types of implants. You can opt for a dramatic size increase or simply increase by a cup size. Additionally, you can choose between round and tear-drop, as well as textured and smooth implants. Your cosmetic surgeon each of the options.
All breast implants have advantages and disadvantages. Discuss your aesthetic goals with the plastic surgeon and ensure that you understand the recommendations for implant style, shape, and size.
If you opt for silicone implants, the FDA recommends MRI check-ups biannually to check for ruptures. There is no added risk of rupturing with a mammogram, so you should continue to have regular checks. Recently, textured implants have been identified as possible links to BIA-ALCL. Discuss this medical condition with your plastic surgeon.
The cost of breast augmentation surgery varies based on several factors. Although it is tempting to look for ways to reduce costs for elective surgery, you should balance cost with the expertise and reputation of the surgeon. Look for a surgeon who specializes in breast surgery, and browse before and after pictures of actual patients. You can assess the quality of the look, as well as look for a style that suits your goals.
At a minimum, your plastic surgeon should be board-certified, have specialized training and expertise in cosmetic surgery, and be licensed in your jurisdiction. Ask about where the procedure will be performed. The surgical facility should be accredited.
Many plastic surgeons offer financing options to help patients afford the cost of breast augmentation. This is a better option that bargain shopping for your surgery. If you are having breast augmentation after mastectomy, discuss your coverage with your insurance carrier.
In New York, NY, you can expect to pay between $6,000 and $7,000 for breast augmentation. The prices vary based on the type of procedure, type of implants, location where the surgery is performed, and experience of the surgeon. You may also incur costs for the medical professional who administers the anesthesia, as well as other fees.
Breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure, and most patients go home after a few hours in recovery. The exception is reconstructive breast augmentation. Women who have breast reconstruction may need to stay in the hospital overnight or for a few days. You may be able to walk later in the day after your surgery, or your surgeon may want you to rest for the first 24 hours. After a few days, you will be allowed to leave your home and walk around more. You’ll still need to take it easy because the incisions are not healed yet.
The surgeon may use dissolvable sutures, or you may need to return to the surgeon’s office 10 to 14 days after the procedure to have sutures removed. You may also have drainage tubes that need to be removed. You may need to wear a compression garment or sports bra for a period of time until the tissues heal. This helps to minimize swelling and helps hold the implants in place. Following the aftercare instructions from the surgeon ensures that the results of procedure are as expected.
You can expect discomfort, swelling, and bruising for a few weeks after the surgery. Pain may be more noticeable for the first seven days. Avoid exercise for at least two to four weeks, and you’ll need to be cleared by your surgeon before increasing your activity level. You may be able to return to work after two weeks.
Expect breast tenderness and sensitivity with any movement or physical contact with your breasts. If you notice any warmth or redness in your breast, or if you develop a fever, contact your surgeon in case you have an infection.
Follow-up appointments are scheduled with your surgeon to assess your healing and recovery. During the appointments, your surgeon provides instructions on your activity level, whether you can increase activity or need to continue resting.
When the incisions first heal, the scars will be pink in color. Over the next 12 months, scar color changes to be slightly darker than your natural skin tone.
Initially, you will have some swelling in your breast area. This will make your breasts look larger than expected. If the implants are placed under the pectoral muscle, the implants will also look higher than expected. Swelling gradually subsides over the next six to eight weeks. You can see the final results after three months.
If you are having a fat transfer in your breasts, approximately 40% of the fat cells will not survive and will be absorbed by your body over the first three months. You may need additional fat injections to sculpt the breast shape and size. After a year, the injected fat tissue will be permanent. As with any fat cells in your body, the transferred fat will shrink and expand with changes in your weight.
Although rare, there are risks involved with breast augmentation, as there are with any type of surgery. Complications include implant leaking or rupture, capsular contracture (hard, painful scar tissue formation around the implant), and visible skin wrinkling over the implant. There is some evidence of textured implants being linked to BIA-ALCL (lymphoma) as well as BII (breast implant illness), but the FDA reports that evidence does not indicate that getting breast implants alone do not cause these medical conditions. Discuss BIA-ALCL and BII with your surgeon.
Most women can safely and successfully breastfeed after getting breast implants. However, breast surgery can damage milk ducts, and this may affect breastfeeding.
The following precautions are recommended after having breast augmentation surgery.
The natural aging process does cause sagging in the breasts. Implants do not reduce or increase the risk of sagging. You may opt for breast implant revision surgery or a breast lift in the future.
There are some non-surgical options for breast augmentation, but the results are not comparable to getting implants. Rather, these other options are recommended for correcting small issues, such as dimples and minor asymmetry. Breast lift surgery, though, may be worth considering if your natural breasts sag or hang low on your chest. Breast augmentation and breast lift surgery can be combined into a single procedure, or you can have a breast life later when your breasts start to develop sagging.
We have received your report and will review it shortly.
Read real reviews from the Anzolo community.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I honestly can’t say enough good things about Neinstein Plastic Surgery. From the moment I walked in, I felt calm, cared for, and completely supported. Every single person made me feel like part of the family — it’s rare to experience that kind of warmth and genuine care in a medical setting.
My pre-op nurse Rachelle was so kind and reassuring, helping me feel totally at ease before surgery. In recovery, Sharry was incredible — so gentle and comforting. The post-op team, Tara and Ashley, were amazing, always checking in and making sure I had everything I needed. My coordinator Bella made the entire process smooth, organized, stress-free, and took care of everything I needed. Becca my original coordinator helped me through really difficult family situation and postponed everything for me which took so much stress off. This is the TOP personal care you can find and I didn’t even know was existed.
What really touched my heart was how they cared for my mom while she waited for me so worried during surgery — Mitch even brought her lunch and made sure she was comfortable. That’s the kind of thoughtful, family-level care that sets this practice apart.
Dr. Neinstein’s daily visits and personal check-ins were the things I waited for the most and showed how deeply he cares about his patients. There is no one better than him! He is #1 TT surgeon in America but also such a kind soul.
I have to also mention nurse Tori who was so sweet, patient, and caring every step of the way and gave me the best food rec.
This entire experience felt like being surrounded by family who truly want the best for me. I’m beyond grateful to each and every person at Neinstein Plastic Surgery — you made me feel safe, loved, and cared for when I was most vulnerable and needed it the most.
Orel Ayal on Chris Funderburk, Dr via Google Reviews
I don’t even know where to begin. I had a breast lift and fat transfer whilst downsizing my implants with Dr Anna Steve a year ago. When I say hands of an angel I mean it. Dr Anna is an artist at what she does and has been available to me from start to finish and beyond. She has the softest energy that is so comforting throughout the entire process beginning at the pre ops—of which she welcomed me for multiple to make sure I was getting exactly what I wanted—to surgery day where she held my hand going under to the music of my choice (Man! I feel like a woman by Shania) and throughout my entire recovery process. Her motherly energy she has for own children is extended to you no matter your age and you can feel her love and care for you and her work. When I say I CANT SEE MY SCARS!! I mean I can’t see my scars. I was terrified to do a breast lift because I was worried about the scaring as I’ve seen some cases elsewhere I would not have wanted for myself. But looking in a mirror, I cannot see my anchor scars AT. ALL. I’ve healed phenomenally. Earlier in the healing process I had a tiny t juncture breakdown which she told me could happen before surgery for a variety of reasons and that it could easily be addressed if it happened which it was immediately and has since healed fine. With that in mind I still have healed flawlessly. Everything was customized to my liking, placement of the nipple, size of implant, fat grafting, everything has been a dream and I am filled with gratitude for Dr Anna, the entire breast team and everyone at Neinstein Plastic surgery. I fear I will never have a better experience and they have ruined me for every other doctor in the future due to their level of care. We are talking texts in the middle of the middle of the night, checking on me constantly, responding to any questions immediately, the list goes on and on. Dr Neinstein himself has checked up on me and I’m not even his patient. He’s even helped me post operatively after another surgery with someone else who was less than communicative. The entire team goes above and beyond and I could not recommend them or Dr Anna Steve enough. An angel from the heavens I tell you. So grateful to have been gifted with her talent and expertise for the rest of time. Best boobs EVER. Love you Dr Anna!! 💗💗
Nykita Joy on Chris Funderburk, Dr via Google Reviews
Dr. Neinstein is truly the king of transformation! His artistry, compassion, and personal follow-ups made my experience flawless. The entire team: Bella, Mitch, Nicolette, Dr. Markovic, Sherry, Ashley, and Tara, were caring, professional, and genuinely kind. Even the lovely girls at the front desk were so welcoming and sweet! I felt supported every step of the way and couldn’t be more grateful.
Dr. Neinstein handled everything with such precision, expertise, and genuine care. He personally visited me several times after surgery to check on my progress and even called and sent messages to make sure I was doing well, which meant the world to me.
Bella was incredible at organizing everything and making my surgery happen on short notice. She was so patient, attentive, and reassuring throughout the entire process, truly the heart that keeps everything running smoothly.
Mitch made sure the financial process was smooth, transparent, and stress-free. He was so kind, responsive, and thoughtful in making everything easy and clear, which gave me complete peace of mind.
Nurse Nicolette made me feel calm and fully prepared before surgery, walking me through every detail.
Dr. Markovic was so kind and reassuring, when I told her I was nervous about having the IV on the back of my wrist and preferred it in my inner elbow, she smiled and said, “Done, that’s where we’ll place it.” That small act of care made all the difference.
Nurse Sherry was my guardian post-op. She was there when I woke up after anesthesia, checked my vitals, made sure I was comfortable, and later helped the radiant nurse take me safely to the hotel, ensuring everything was perfect.
Nurse Ashley followed up daily on my incision and even visited me at the hotel to check on my healing. Her gentle nature and genuine warmth made me feel so cared for, she truly brightened my recovery.
And last but definitely not least, Nurse Tara, who made sure I left New York glowing! She arranged my skin boosters, Botox, and laser treatments before my flight home, adding the perfect finishing touch to my experience. Even though she was fully booked the weekend my sister was visiting, she still made the effort to come over for a patient pop-in and treated my sister, who was in urgent need of Botox before traveling, truly going above and beyond.
From start to finish, I felt cared for, supported, and genuinely valued. I couldn’t recommend Dr. Neinstein and his entire team enough, their dedication, kindness, and attention to every detail truly set them apart. 🤍🤍🤍
Foosha on Chris Funderburk, Dr via Google Reviews
Dr. Ryan Neinstein is an exceptional plastic surgeon who cares about his patients. I am a mom of four who had diastasis recti and loose skin from having large babies and needed an extended tummy tuck. He performed and extended tummy tuck with lipo 360 and used no drains for my procedure.
After years of searching I knew once I had the initial consultation with him this was the right surgeon. Bella his coordinator goes above and beyond to make sure you have all the tools you need to be prepared. His expertise and compassionate approach made me feel comfortable. He thoroughly explained the procedure, addressing all of my concerns.
The surgery itself was a seamless experience thanks to Dr. Neinstein and the attentive care of his team. They have the exparel shot, which really helps with having little to no pain the first few days after surgery. Nurses Ashley and Tara had pre op phone calls with me weeks leading up to my surgery and still check up on me daily answering my texts with any questions I have. My recovery Nurses Tori and Maggie were the sweetest, they were both so caring they made the initial wake up so comfortable. They brought me to my hotel across the street and set up my room so that once I got there I would feel at ease. The aftercare nursing with Radiant Recovery helped make my first few days after surgery comfortable and worry free.
The morning after surgery Dr Neinstein came to my hotel to check up on how I was doing. While he was out of town for a convention Nurse Ashley came and so did Dr. Funderburk to check up on me. The NPS practice is the best. I am 4 weeks out and I am so happy with the results. I am profoundly grateful for his expertise and highly recommend him to anyone considering this type of surgery dealing with post pregnancy abdominal issues. It truly is "Neinstein or Nowhere."
jessica V on Chris Funderburk, Dr via Google Reviews
Please fill in the form below and we will get in touch with you shortly.
