Breast augmentation, or augmentation mammoplasty, is one of the most popular plastic surgeries in the United States. Women unsatisfied with their breast appearance often look to breast augmentation to increase the size and shape of their bust. Our skilled and experienced plastic surgeon, Dr. Georgina Nichols, has helped countless women achieve their desired breast size with close attention to fine details, a feminine touch, and individualized care.

Your Breast Augmentation Surgery with Dr. Nichols

Dr. Nichols offers breast augmentation with breast implants or fat transfer at The Plastic Surgery Center in Sacramento. This procedure is tailored to your unique needs and anatomy. Breast implants come in various types, sizes, and shapes to customize your bust. Fat transfer breast augmentation is best for small-volume enhancement and uses harvested fat cells from another body part to improve breast size and shape.

Breast augmentation can enhance the breasts but won’t improve sagging breast tissue. Dr. Nichols may recommend combining breast enhancement with breast lift to address drooping and deliver fuller, more youthful breasts.

What surgical techniques does Dr. Nichols offer for breast augmentation?

Dr. Nichols employs various incisional techniques for breast augmentation to ensure minimal scarring and optimal results tailored to each patient’s anatomy and goals. The options for incisional placement include:

• Periareolar Incision: Made around the edge of the areola, this approach allows for well-concealed scars along the natural border of the areola. It’s often chosen for its discrete scar placement and is suitable for most types of implants.
• Inframammary Incision: Positioned in the fold under the breast, this incision provides Dr. Nichols direct access to the breast tissue and chest muscles, making it ideal for all implant types and sizes. Scars are easily hidden under a bikini or bra.
• Transaxillary Incision: Made in the natural crease of the armpit, this technique avoids scars on the breast itself, with the implant being placed via a channel from the armpit. It’s frequently preferred by patients looking for no visible scars on the breast.

What are the differences in implant placement?

The placement of breast implants can significantly affect the overall appearance and feel of the breast augmentation:

Submuscular (Under the Muscle): Implants placed beneath the pectoral muscle offer a more natural slope to the upper breast and are less likely to interfere with mammograms. This option may be recommended for patients with less natural breast tissue.

Subglandular (Over the Muscle): Implants placed over the muscle but under the breast gland can provide a more pronounced cleavage and may have a shorter recovery time. This might be suitable for women with a moderate amount of breast tissue.
Dr. Nichols will help you understand the benefits and considerations of each placement option during your consultation.

What is the cost of breast augmentation?

The price of breast augmentation surgery can vary based on the type of implants chosen and the surgical techniques Dr. Nichols utilizes. Dr. Nichols’s office offers financing options and will provide a detailed cost breakdown during your consultation.

What is breast augmentation recovery like?

Recovery time varies by individual, but most patients can expect to take up to two weeks off work for initial recovery. Swelling and bruising are common. Dr. Nichols will prescribe medication to manage any discomfort. Patients are usually advised to avoid strenuous activities for at least four weeks. Dr. Nichols provides detailed post-operative care instructions and is available to address any concerns throughout the recovery process.

Do I need a breast lift with breast augmentation?

Some patients may benefit from combining breast augmentation with a breast lift (mastopexy) to achieve their desired look. This is particularly true for those experiencing sagging or loss of volume due to aging, weight loss, or childbirth. During your consultation, Dr. Nichols will evaluate your breasts and discuss whether a breast lift in conjunction with augmentation would be beneficial to you.

Is it okay to have breast augmentation before having children?

Yes, it is safe to have breast augmentation before having children, and the right placement can avoid impeding lactation. However, pregnancy and breastfeeding can change the size and shape of your breasts, potentially impacting the long-term results of the surgery. If you are planning to become pregnant in the near future, Dr. Nichols may advise you to postpone plans for augmentation so that you can achieve results that are longer lasting.