BREAST AUGMENTATION
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure designed to enhance a woman’s breast size, shape, and symmetry. This can be achieved through breast implants, fat transfer, or a combination of both. Implants remain the most popular choice, offering precise control over the desired outcome. For women seeking to address sagging or restore a youthful appearance, a breast lift may also be considered.
Modern advancements have made breast augmentation safer and more natural-looking than ever before. By carefully considering your goals and selecting a qualified surgeon, you can confidently achieve the desired look and boost your self-esteem.
Recognized as a Top Doctor by Charlotte Magazine and Castle Connolly for over a decade, and a consistent North Carolina Top Doc, Dr. Peter Capizzi is committed to maintaining the highest standards of excellence in cosmetic surgery.
BREAST AUGMENTATION
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure designed to enhance a woman’s breast size, shape, and symmetry. This can be achieved through breast implants, fat transfer, or a combination of both. Implants remain the most popular choice, offering precise control over the desired outcome. For women seeking to address sagging or restore a youthful appearance, a breast lift may also be considered.
Modern advancements have made breast augmentation safer and more natural-looking than ever before. By carefully considering your goals and selecting a qualified surgeon, you can confidently achieve the desired look and boost your self-esteem.
Capizzi MD has earned a stellar reputation as a leading provider of breast augmentation in Charlotte and nationwide. With over 20 years of experience and a meticulous approach, our practice is dedicated to delivering exceptional results tailored to each individual patient. Our team of highly skilled surgeons prioritizes personalized care, considering your unique desires, body type, and medical history. We strive for beautiful, natural-looking results with minimal downtime.
Recognized as a Top Doctor by Charlotte Magazine and Castle Connolly for over a decade, and a consistent North Carolina Top Doc, Dr. Peter Capizzi is committed to maintaining the highest standards of excellence in cosmetic surgery.
Breast Implant Types & Sizes
Selecting the ideal breast implants for your body and lifestyle is a crucial decision. A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is essential to guide you through the process. Your safety, comfort, and satisfaction are our top priorities.
Breast implants can dramatically enhance your breast size and shape. The three primary types are gummy bear (cohesive silicone gel), silicone gel, and saline. Each option has unique benefits and drawbacks:
- Gummy Bear Implants: These cohesive silicone gel implants excel in maintaining shape, offering a natural feel, and providing superior longevity. Their excellent safety profile and long-lasting results make them a premium choice. Sientra HSC and HSC+ implants are popular gummy bear implant options.
- Silicone Gel Implants: While similar in appearance to gummy bear implants, silicone gel lacks the enhanced safety and durability of cohesive gel. Mentor MemoryGel is a common silicone gel implant.
- Saline Implants: Filled with sterile water, saline implants concentrate volume at the breast base. They are heavier than silicone options and more prone to rupture and rippling. Once the standard, saline implants are less popular due to advancements in silicone technology. Allergan and Mentor offer saline implant options.
To ensure you make an informed decision, a comprehensive consultation with a board-certified Capizzi MD surgeon is essential. We will recommend the optimal implant type and size to achieve your desired outcome and long-term satisfaction. Our expertise lies in delivering exceptional results with gummy bear implants, which we believe offer the best combination of safety, aesthetics, and durability.
Visit this page to learn more about different implants sizes and types.
Gummy Bear Implants
Gummy bear implants have revolutionized the world of breast augmentation. Renowned for their natural appearance and exceptional durability, these fifth-generation silicone implants have become the preferred choice for both patients and surgeons alike.
FDA-approved in 2013, gummy bear implants feature a high gel-to-shell ratio that closely mimics the contours of a naturally beautiful breast. Their cohesive gel filling provides a soft, supple feel, enhancing the implant’s lifelike qualities.
With over 100 sizes and profiles available, gummy bear implants offer unparalleled customization options to suit every patient’s desired outcome. Dr. Capizzi, a leading expert in the field, has been a key investigator for every implant manufacturer available in the US, and was integral in the FDA approval process for these groundbreaking implants. His extensive research, experience, and deep understanding of gummy bear technology ensure exceptional results for his patients.
Breast Fat Transfer
Breast fat transfer, also known as fat transfer, is a cutting-edge cosmetic procedure that utilizes your own body fat to enhance breast volume and shape. Unlike traditional breast implants, this natural approach offers a more holistic and personalized solution to breast augmentation.
During the procedure, excess fat is gently extracted from areas like the abdomen, thighs, or flanks through liposuction. It is then purified using a washing system before being carefully injected into the breasts, resulting in a fuller, more contoured appearance.
Benefits of breast fat transfer include:
- Natural-looking results: Fat grafts seamlessly integrate with the body’s tissues, creating a soft, organic look and feel.
- Improved body contouring: The procedure not only enhances the breasts but also refines the treated areas by removing excess fat.
- Reduced implant risks: As fat transfer eliminates the need for foreign materials, patients can avoid potential implant-related complications.
If you desire a subtle enhancement or prefer a non-implant alternative, breast fat transfer may be the ideal choice.
Breast Augmentation Incisions
The incision placement for your breast augmentation is a critical decision that significantly impacts the overall outcome and recovery process. Our skilled surgeons at Capizzi MD carefully consider factors such as desired breast size, shape, your unique anatomy, and medical history to determine the optimal incision location.
Common Incision Techniques:
- Inframammary Crease Incision: This is the most common incision placement, hidden within the natural fold beneath the breast. It typically results in a shorter scar and minimal discomfort.
- Areolar Incision: Ideal for patients also undergoing a breast lift, this technique conceals the incision within the areola, minimizing visible scarring.
Swift Recovery and Minimal Discomfort
Contrary to popular belief, breast augmentation recovery doesn’t have to be a lengthy ordeal. Many of our patients are pleasantly surprised to find themselves feeling well enough to drive within just a few days, reduce pain medication use to minimal levels within the first couple of days, and return to their normal routines swiftly.
Safety and Quality at the Core of Our Breast Augmentation Procedures
Breast augmentation remains one of the most sought-after cosmetic procedures offering women the opportunity to enhance their natural beauty. When considering this transformative step, choosing an accredited facility and Charlotte breast augmentation surgeon is paramount. Our operating room is proudly accredited by the American Association of Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (Quad A), ensuring the highest standards of patient safety and care. Our Quad A-accredited facility is equipped with cutting-edge technology and staffed by a highly skilled team dedicated to delivering exceptional results. By prioritizing your comfort and safety, we create an environment where you can confidently embark on your breast augmentation journey.
Conveniently located in the heart of Charlotte, North Carolina, our practice is easily accessible from Lake Norman, Cornelius, Davidson, Waxhaw, and the entire Charlotte metro area.
Breast Augmentation FAQ
Considering breast augmentation? You’re not alone! This procedure has helped countless women boost their confidence and enhance their natural beauty. We understand that you may have questions about the process, recovery, and results. That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive FAQ section.
Here, you’ll find answers to the most common questions about breast augmentation. If you don’t see your question answered, please don’t hesitate to contact our office.
1. Saline vs. Silicone Breast Implants: Which is right for you?
Choosing the right breast implants is a crucial decision. Both saline and silicone implants are FDA-approved options for breast augmentation and reconstruction, but they have distinct characteristics.
- Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater and offer a firmer, rounder feel. They are often inserted empty and filled during surgery, allowing for customized sizing.
- Silicone implants, on the other hand, are filled with silicone gel, providing a softer, more natural appearance.
- Gummy bear implants are a type of silicone implant known for their cohesive gel, offering a safer silicone option with a more shape-retaining profile.
2. Gummy Bear Implants vs. Traditional Silicone: What’s the difference?
Gummy bear implants stand out from traditional silicone implants due to their unique gel composition. Featuring a thicker, more cohesive silicone gel, gummy bear implants offer a natural feel and appearance. This advanced gel technology also contributes to enhanced implant stability, reducing the risk of rupture or leakage compared to standard silicone implants.
Round vs. Shaped Breast Implants: Which is best?
When considering breast augmentation, understanding implant shapes is essential. The most popular choice is round breast implants. Known for their symmetrical fullness and lift, round implants are less likely to rotate.
While round implants are the go-to option for many, shaped implants (often teardrop-shaped) are another consideration. These are commonly used in breast reconstruction cases where there’s less natural tissue to create a natural breast contour.
Let’s explore the benefits and considerations of each shape to help you decide which is right for your desired outcome.
4. High Profile vs. Moderate Profile Breast Implants: Which is the right option for me?
The profile of a breast implant refers to its shape when viewed from the side. This determines how much the implant will project from the chest wall.
- High profile implants have a narrower base and greater projection, creating a fuller, more rounded look. They are often used in patients with a smaller or narrower chest.
- Moderate profile implants have a wider base and shallower projection, resulting in a balanced and full look. They are a good option for women with a wider chest.
Ultimately, the best implant profile for you depends on your desired outcome, body type, and the recommendation of your plastic surgeon.
5. Can I breastfeed after implants?
Yes, most women can breastfeed successfully after breast augmentation. However, implant placement (above or below the chest muscle) and size can influence breastfeeding. Larger implants may make latching more difficult, and breast reduction can impact milk production. If you plan to breastfeed, discuss your options with your plastic surgeon.
6. Implant Placement: Under the Muscle vs. Over the Muscle
The placement of your breast implants – under or over the chest muscle – significantly impacts your augmentation results.
Under-the-Muscle (Submuscular) Placement
- Natural appearance: Offers a more natural-looking and feeling breast due to muscle cushioning the implant.
- Reduced Capsular Contracture Risk: Less likely to develop hardened/contracted scar tissue around your implant.
Over-the-Muscle (Subglandular) Placement
- More visible implant: A more pronounced look can be great if those are your goals, however there is a higher risk of visible implant edges/rippling.
- Less natural feel: May result in a less natural breast contour compared to submuscular placement.
Ultimately, the best placement for you depends on factors like your desired outcome, breast tissue volume, and your surgeon’s recommendations.
7. Post-Surgery Bra: Comfort and Support
You don’t need a special bra after your breast augmentation. We provide a comfortable bralette for immediate post-surgery, but it’s optional for the first few days while you are healing. The key is to allow your breasts to settle naturally.
For the first four weeks, a light, supportive bralette is recommended. After that, you can gradually return to wearing underwire bras. Remember, comfort is essential during healing, so choose bras that feel good and provide gentle support.
8. How Long Do Breast Implants Last?
There’s a common misconception that breast implants need replacing every ten years. This isn’t necessarily true. While some women opt for revisions after a decade due to changes in their body or desired look, implants themselves don’t have an expiration date. Many women enjoy the results of their breast augmentation for significantly longer periods.
Factors like implant type, individual body chemistry, and overall care can influence implant longevity.
If you have any additional questions, or are interested in learning more about a breast augmentation, please submit a contact form to speak with a member of our Patient Care team.
Capizzi MD has earned a stellar reputation as a leading provider of breast augmentation in Charlotte and nationwide. With over 20 years of experience and a meticulous approach, our practice is dedicated to delivering exceptional results tailored to each individual patient. Our team of highly skilled surgeons prioritizes personalized care, considering your unique desires, body type, and medical history. We strive for beautiful, natural-looking results with minimal downtime.
Types of Breast Implants
Selecting the ideal breast implants for your body and lifestyle is a crucial decision. A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is essential to guide you through the process. Your safety, comfort, and satisfaction are our top priorities.
Breast implants can dramatically enhance your breast size and shape. The three primary types are gummy bear (cohesive silicone gel), silicone gel, and saline. Each option has unique benefits and drawbacks:
- Gummy Bear Implants: These cohesive silicone gel implants excel in maintaining shape, offering a natural feel, and providing superior longevity. Their excellent safety profile and long-lasting results make them a premium choice. Sientra HSC and HSC+ implants are popular gummy bear implant options.
- Silicone Gel Implants: While similar in appearance to gummy bear implants, silicone gel lacks the enhanced safety and durability of cohesive gel. Mentor MemoryGel is a common silicone gel implant.
- Saline Implants: Filled with sterile water, saline implants concentrate volume at the breast base. They are heavier than silicone options and more prone to rupture and rippling. Once the standard, saline implants are less popular due to advancements in silicone technology. Allergan and Mentor offer saline implant options.
To ensure you make an informed decision, a comprehensive consultation with a board-certified Capizzi MD surgeon is essential. We will recommend the optimal implant type and size to achieve your desired outcome and long-term satisfaction. Our expertise lies in delivering exceptional results with gummy bear implants, which we believe offer the best combination of safety, aesthetics, and durability.
Visit this page to learn more about different implants sizes and types.
Gummy Bear Implants
Gummy bear implants have revolutionized the world of breast augmentation. Renowned for their natural appearance and exceptional durability, these fifth-generation silicone implants have become the preferred choice for both patients and surgeons alike.
FDA-approved in 2013, gummy bear implants feature a high gel-to-shell ratio that closely mimics the contours of a naturally beautiful breast. Their cohesive gel filling provides a soft, supple feel, enhancing the implant’s lifelike qualities.
With over 100 sizes and profiles available, gummy bear implants offer unparalleled customization options to suit every patient’s desired outcome. Dr. Capizzi, a leading expert in the field, has been a key investigator for every implant manufacturer available in the US, and was integral in the FDA approval process for these groundbreaking implants. His extensive research, experience, and deep understanding of gummy bear technology ensure exceptional results for his patients.
Breast Fat Transfer
Breast fat grafting or fat transfer is a cosmetic procedure that involves taking fat from other parts of the body and transferring it to the breasts. This procedure can be used to enhance the size and shape of the breasts, as well as improve their symmetry. It is a relatively new procedure, but one that has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its minimally invasive nature and natural looking results.
Fat transfer involves liposuction, which is used to extract fat cells from other parts of the body such as the abdomen or thighs. The extracted fat cells are then purified and injected into the breasts using small needles. This procedure offers a safe and effective way for people who want to naturally enhance their bust size without implants.
Breast Augmentation Incisions
The incision placement for your breast augmentation is a critical decision that significantly impacts the overall outcome and recovery process. Our skilled surgeons at Capizzi MD carefully consider factors such as desired breast size, shape, your unique anatomy, and medical history to determine the optimal incision location.
Common Incision Techniques:
- Inframammary Crease Incision: This is the most common incision placement, hidden within the natural fold beneath the breast. It typically results in a shorter scar and minimal discomfort.
- Areolar Incision: Ideal for patients also undergoing a breast lift, this technique conceals the incision within the areola, minimizing visible scarring.
Swift Recovery and Minimal Discomfort
Contrary to popular belief, breast augmentation recovery doesn’t have to be a lengthy ordeal. Many of our patients are pleasantly surprised to find themselves feeling well enough to drive within just a few days, reduce pain medication use to minimal levels within the first couple of days, and return to their normal routines swiftly.
Safety and Quality at the Core of Our Breast Augmentation Procedures
Breast augmentation remains one of the most sought-after cosmetic procedures offering women the opportunity to enhance their natural beauty. When considering this transformative step, choosing an accredited facility and Charlotte breast augmentation surgeon is paramount. Our operating room is proudly accredited by the American Association of Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (Quad A), ensuring the highest standards of patient safety and care. Our Quad A-accredited facility is equipped with cutting-edge technology and staffed by a highly skilled team dedicated to delivering exceptional results. By prioritizing your comfort and safety, we create an environment where you can confidently embark on your breast augmentation journey.
Conveniently located in the heart of Charlotte, North Carolina, our practice is easily accessible from Lake Norman, Cornelius, Davidson, Waxhaw, and the entire Charlotte metro area.
Breast Augmentation FAQ
Considering breast augmentation? You’re not alone! This procedure has helped countless women boost their confidence and enhance their natural beauty. We understand that you may have questions about the process, recovery, and results. That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive FAQ section.
Here, you’ll find answers to the most common questions about breast augmentation. If you don’t see your question answered, please don’t hesitate to contact our office.
1. Saline vs. Silicone Breast Implants: Which is right for you?
Choosing the right breast implants is a crucial decision. Both saline and silicone implants are FDA-approved options for breast augmentation and reconstruction, but they have distinct characteristics.
- Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater and offer a firmer, rounder feel. They are often inserted empty and filled during surgery, allowing for customized sizing.
- Silicone implants, on the other hand, are filled with silicone gel, providing a softer, more natural appearance.
- Gummy bear implants are a type of silicone implant known for their cohesive gel, offering a safer silicone option with a more shape-retaining profile.
2. Gummy Bear Implants vs. Traditional Silicone: What’s the difference?
Gummy bear implants stand out from traditional silicone implants due to their unique gel composition. Featuring a thicker, more cohesive silicone gel, gummy bear implants offer a natural feel and appearance. This advanced gel technology also contributes to enhanced implant stability, reducing the risk of rupture or leakage compared to standard silicone implants.
Round vs. Shaped Breast Implants: Which is best?
When considering breast augmentation, understanding implant shapes is essential. The most popular choice is round breast implants. Known for their symmetrical fullness and lift, round implants are less likely to rotate.
While round implants are the go-to option for many, shaped implants (often teardrop-shaped) are another consideration. These are commonly used in breast reconstruction cases where there’s less natural tissue to create a natural breast contour.
Let’s explore the benefits and considerations of each shape to help you decide which is right for your desired outcome.
4. High Profile vs. Moderate Profile Breast Implants: Which is the right option for me?
The profile of a breast implant refers to its shape when viewed from the side. This determines how much the implant will project from the chest wall.
- High profile implants have a narrower base and greater projection, creating a fuller, more rounded look. They are often used in patients with a smaller or narrower chest.
- Moderate profile implants have a wider base and shallower projection, resulting in a balanced and full look. They are a good option for women with a wider chest.
Ultimately, the best implant profile for you depends on your desired outcome, body type, and the recommendation of your plastic surgeon.
5. Can I breastfeed after implants?
Yes, most women can breastfeed successfully after breast augmentation. However, implant placement (above or below the chest muscle) and size can influence breastfeeding. Larger implants may make latching more difficult, and breast reduction can impact milk production. If you plan to breastfeed, discuss your options with your plastic surgeon.
6. Implant Placement: Under the Muscle vs. Over the Muscle
The placement of your breast implants – under or over the chest muscle – significantly impacts your augmentation results.
Under-the-Muscle (Submuscular) Placement
- Natural appearance: Offers a more natural-looking and feeling breast due to muscle cushioning the implant.
- Reduced Capsular Contracture Risk: Less likely to develop hardened/contracted scar tissue around your implant.
Over-the-Muscle (Subglandular) Placement
- More visible implant: A more pronounced look can be great if those are your goals, however there is a higher risk of visible implant edges/rippling.
- Less natural feel: May result in a less natural breast contour compared to submuscular placement.
Ultimately, the best placement for you depends on factors like your desired outcome, breast tissue volume, and your surgeon’s recommendations.
7. Post-Surgery Bra: Comfort and Support
You don’t need a special bra after your breast augmentation. We provide a comfortable bralette for immediate post-surgery, but it’s optional for the first few days while you are healing. The key is to allow your breasts to settle naturally.
For the first four weeks, a light, supportive bralette is recommended. After that, you can gradually return to wearing underwire bras. Remember, comfort is essential during healing, so choose bras that feel good and provide gentle support.
8. How Long Do Breast Implants Last?
There’s a common misconception that breast implants need replacing every ten years. This isn’t necessarily true. While some women opt for revisions after a decade due to changes in their body or desired look, implants themselves don’t have an expiration date. Many women enjoy the results of their breast augmentation for significantly longer periods.
Factors like implant type, individual body chemistry, and overall care can influence implant longevity.
If you have any additional questions, or are interested in learning more about a breast augmentation, please submit a contact form to speak with a member of our Patient Care team.