Breast Augmentation

Understanding whether you need a breast lift, breast augmentation, or both depends primarily on your specific concerns and aesthetic goals. Breast augmentation addresses size and volume, creating fuller breasts through implants or fat transfer. However, it cannot significantly improve severe sagging or dramatically change breast position on the chest.

A breast lift, on the other hand, repositions existing breast tissue to a more youthful height and can improve the position of your nipples and areolas. While a lift creates a perkier appearance, it cannot add significant volume or substantially increase breast size.

Many women choose to combine these procedures to achieve comprehensive improvement in both breast position and volume. During your consultation, Dr. Nodwell will evaluate factors such as skin elasticity, breast position, and tissue quality to recommend the approach that will best achieve your desired results. Simple tests, like evaluating where your nipples sit in relation to your breast crease, can help determine if a lift would benefit you.

If you're unsure which procedure might be right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Nodwell to discuss your goals and explore your options. Together, we can develop a surgical plan that addresses all your concerns and delivers beautiful, natural-looking results.

Before your surgery date, you should choose a trusted friend or family member who can provide transportation to and from the procedure location and stay with you for the first 24 hours of recovery.

Most patients require one to two weeks away from work or professional obligations. It's important to communicate openly with your employer about your upcoming surgery and make arrangements for your absence well in advance. 

You will also need to adhere to physical restrictions, particularly regarding lifting and strenuous activities, for several weeks following your initial recovery period. While these temporary adjustments may feel inconvenient, they are crucial for protecting your results and ensuring proper healing.

One of the most important choices you can make leading up to your breast augmentation is to prioritize your health. That's why our office asks that all forms of nicotine be eliminated at least six weeks before surgery, as nicotine compromises your body's healing ability and increases surgical risks. 

We will also provide you with personalized medication instructions since your medication regimen may need to be temporarily modified or discontinued to ensure a safe procedure and recovery. As a general rule of thumb, we also always recommend that you maintain a balanced diet to give your body the best tools for recovery.

Preparing a Recovery Station

A well-organized recovery station is essential for a smooth and comfortable healing process after breast augmentation. By preparing this dedicated space before your surgery, you'll ensure everything you need is within easy reach during those crucial first days of recovery.

Your recovery station should include:

• Medications, organized by schedule
• Comfortable pillows for elevation and support
• Entertainment options that don't require physical strain
• Clean gauze and any medical supplies recommended by Dr. Nodwell
• Loose, front-closing clothing for easy changes

Your recovery station should be a comfortable area where you can rest and relax without straining to reach necessary items. Consider setting up in a space that allows you to easily transition between sitting upright and reclining, such as a bed with adjustable positioning or a comfortable recliner with supportive pillows.

Keep essential items within arm's reach to avoid unnecessary stretching or reaching, which could strain your healing tissue. A small table or rolling cart next to your chosen rest area provides an ideal surface for frequently used items. Consider keeping your phone charger, television remote, and any entertainment items like books or tablets easily accessible.

Remember to position necessary items at a height that won't require lifting your arms above chest level, as this movement may be restricted during your initial recovery phase. Having everything thoughtfully arranged before your procedure will allow you to focus entirely on rest and healing when you return home.

When you choose breast augmentation with Dr. Nodwell, you can expect comprehensive improvement in both the size and shape of your breasts. While your initial results will be visible immediately after surgery, your final outcome will continue to develop over several months as your tissues heal and your implants settle into their optimal position.

Most women find their breast augmentation results provide lasting enhancement to their figure. Your implants can maintain their shape and position for many years, though natural aging, weight fluctuations, and gravity will continue to affect your breast tissue over time. 

While implants are designed to be long-lasting, many surgeons recommend evaluating them every 10-15 years. This timeline isn't because implants automatically need replacement at a certain point, but rather because this allows for periodic assessment of implant integrity and gives you an opportunity to discuss any desired changes in size or shape.

The choice to replace implants is often a personal one. Some women may choose to replace their implants earlier to change their size or type, while others may have their original implants for 20 years or more without issues. Regular imaging, such as ultrasounds or MRIs, can help monitor implant condition and ensure continued safety.

Pregnancy and significant weight changes can affect your results, which is why many women choose to undergo breast augmentation after completing their families. However, if you do become pregnant after your procedure, your implants will not interfere with pregnancy or breastfeeding capability.

The cost of breast augmentation reflects several factors that contribute to achieving optimal results, including the expertise and experience of your surgeon, location, and many other factors. Typically, breast augmentation at Nodwell Plastic Surgery starts at around $16,000. 

We understand that breast augmentation represents a significant investment in yourself. To help make your goals more attainable, we offer several financing options through trusted third-party providers. These plans can help you manage the cost of your procedure with monthly payments that fit your budget.

While cost is an important consideration, choosing the right surgeon and surgical plan for your breast augmentation should be your primary focus. Dr. Nodwell's expertise, combined with our commitment to patient safety and satisfaction, ensures you receive exceptional value for your investment.