Why Women Pursue Breast Augmentation Surgery

Women seek breast augmentation surgery for various reasons. Some desire to enhance overall breast volume, while others seek a more dramatic cleavage or wish to correct breast tissue asymmetry. They may also desire the modest breast lift effect that Saline breast implants or silicone breast implants can provide. Additionally, women who have experienced changes in their breast tissue due to weight loss, pregnancy, or aging often choose augmentation mammoplasty to restore a youthful appearance.

Natural Breast Augmentation

For women seeking a more subtle enhancement, Dr. Bohley offers fat transfer breast augmentation. This technique utilizes liposuction to harvest fat tissue from an area of the body that typically has ample fat cells, such as the abdomen, hips, thighs, or buttocks. He then purifies the fat cells before re-injecting them into the area requiring enhancement, in this case, the breasts. Techniques are then used to ensure an even distribution of the donor fat cells.

Thanks to advances in autologous fat grafting, the majority of transferred fat cells survive in the long term. Some women may choose to undergo the procedure again later on for optimal aesthetic results.

Bilateral Breast Augmentation
Procedure: Bilateral Breast Augmentation Implant Type: Natrelle Cohesive Gel 485cc Post-Op: 3 months
Tummy Tuck
Extended Abdominoplasty & Breast Augmentation Implant: Full Wise Mastopexy  Sientra HP440cc Post OP: 2 months
Breast Augmentation Patient
Procedure: Breast Augmentation Implant: Natrell SCF 365 cc Post OP: 2.5
Breast Augmentation Patient
Breast Aug 220cc Naturel and 265cc style SSF Implants Abdominoplasty 2 Months Post-Op
Breast Augmentation Patient
Breast Aug 450cc Natrelle Implants 2.5 Months Post-Op

Types of Breast Implants

Types of Breast Implants

During a breast surgery consultation, Dr. Bohley evaluates each patient’s physique and listens to their aesthetic goals for breast augmentation surgery. Based on each person’s unique anatomy and surgical objectives, he recommends an appropriate treatment protocol including the type of breast implants, implant placement option, and incision pattern that will best meet the patient’s comprehensive needs. The two main types of breast implants available are saline and silicone implants:

Saline Breast Implants

Saline implants have an outer silicone shell and are filled with a saline solution, or sterile saltwater, after implant insertion. The principal benefit of saline implants is that the body can safely absorb the filling material in the event that the implant leaks or ruptures. Another advantage of saline implants is that Dr. Bohley can use a slightly smaller incision than he would with silicone implants because he fills the saline implants after insertion.

If a saline implant rupture occurs, the body can safely absorb the saline fluid. However, saline implants are often not a suitable treatment option for women with thin soft tissue coverage and/or little natural breast tissue, as they are prone to folding and rippling within the implant pocket and may be visible underneath the skin.

Silicone Breast Implants

Silicone implants have both a silicone outer shell and a silicone-gel filling material. They more closely resemble the look and feel of natural breasts than their saline counterparts. Silicone gel implants are also less likely to fold, wrinkle, or ripple within the implant pocket. Newer technology has enabled the development of form-stable, or so-called “gummy bear” implants, which are named for the filling material’s consistency that does not leak out, unlike silicone gel.

One of the main drawbacks of silicone implants is that they require a slightly larger incision than saline implants, as the manufacturer prefills them. Additionally, if the implant’s outer shell suffers any damage, the silicone-gel filling material remains intact, either within the implant pocket or very close to it, making it more challenging to detect an issue with the implant. For this reason, the U.S. FDA recommends that women with silicone implants undergo a breast imaging exam (i.e., a mammogram or MRI of the breasts) every three years, starting the third year after the initial augmentation surgery.

Implant Placement Options

Dr. Bohley can place the breast implants either over the chest muscle (subglandular placement) or under the chest muscle (subpectoral placement):

  • Subglandular placement: Implants are positioned over the pectoral muscle during the surgical procedure, ideal for patients with sufficient soft tissue coverage.
  • Subpectoral (under the muscle) placement: Implants are placed beneath the chest muscle, often recommended for lean patients who need extra support for their saline or silicone implants.

Again, the decision regarding where to place the breast implants depends on the patient’s unique anatomy and surgical objectives. For instance, placing the implants over the chest muscle may not be an appropriate option for lean women with a lot of muscle mass and too little breast tissue to cover and support the implants properly.

Incision Patterns

A Portland breast augmentation surgeon offers three main types of incision patterns for breast implant surgery: the transaxillary, periareolar, and inframammary incision approaches.

Transaxillary Incision

With the transaxillary approach, Dr. Bohley inserts the implant through an incision located under the arm, in the armpit area. This incision pattern is most appropriate for placing saline implants that are filled after insertion, and works well to hide scar tissue.

Periareolar Incision

With the periareolar incision pattern, Dr. Bohley makes an incision around the outer circumference of the areola (the darkly pigmented skin surrounding the nipple). Although some women prefer this incision approach because the incision scar is usually well concealed within the darker skin of the areola, it is not the most appropriate option for women who are concerned with the slight risk of experiencing a change in nipple sensation or difficulty breastfeeding after surgery.

Inframammary Incision

The inframammary approach involves making a horizontal incision underneath the natural inframammary fold of the breast. This incision pattern offers minimal risk of experiencing a change in nipple or breast sensation following the procedure. However, the inframammary incision may be more visible than the other incision patterns. Nonetheless, with proper care, the scar from breast augmentation incisions often eventually fades so they closely match the color of the surrounding skin, becoming nearly imperceptible over time.

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The Breast Implant Procedure

Breast augmentation surgery with breast implants is an outpatient procedure, performed under general anesthesia at an accredited surgery center. After Dr. Bohley makes the chosen incision pattern, he creates an implant pocket either under or over the chest wall muscle, as mentioned earlier. He inserts the breast implant through the incision, carefully positioning it in the implant pocket. Once he is satisfied with the size, shape, and symmetrical nature of the breast implants, he closes the breast augmentation incisions with sutures.

Dr. Bohley dresses the treatment area in soft bandages and an overlying surgical bra, which patients must keep in place for several weeks as directed, to provide additional support and minimize swelling while the area heals.

Patient Testimonials

  • Dr. Bohley is one of the most caring doctors I have ever met. Dr. Bohley and his staff are very nice. They made me feel very comfortable. If I had any questions, they were there to answer them. I highly recommend Dr. Bohley. Thanks, Dr. Bohley, and your staff for making me feel so comfortable and answering all my questions.-Facebook Review by Dena
  • The best experience I have ever had! And amazing work! The staff is so nice and makes you feel comfortable! I love my results! Highly recommend Dr. Bohley!-Facebook Review by Terryann
  • Dr. Bohley is everything mentioned above and more. He is also my plastic surgeon. Displayed only kindness and gentleness when I was in need of his masterful touch.-Facebook Review by Mary

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Recovering From Breast Augmentation

Following cosmetic breast augmentation surgery in Portland, patients should expect to take one to two weeks off from work or their normal routine. Patients will be instructed to wear a surgical bra to help with recovery and reduce any swelling. During the initial phase of the recovery period, patients should get plenty of rest and avoid any strenuous activity, including heavy lifting, lifting the arms higher than shoulder height, or exercising.

Patients may experience a tightness in the implant area as their body conforms to the new implants. Often, discomfort can be controlled with prescribed pain medication. During a follow-up appointment, Dr. Bohley will let patients know when it is safe to stop wearing the surgical bra and when they can return to their usual activities, including their fitness regimens.

It is important to understand that although results from breast implants are long-lasting, implants need to be replaced if they rupture or leak. Routine follow-ups with Dr. Bohley are imperative to ensure that your breast implants are intact.

Breast Augmentation FAQs

Are breast implants under warranty?

Most breast implant manufacturers provide a warranty with their implants that can cover the cost of replacement for a certain amount of time. During your consultation, youll learn more about your specific implants and what sort of coverage you can expect under your warranty.

Can breast implants cause pain years later?

Although there are risks that come with breast implants, the chances of developing breast implant illness are exceptionally rare (less than 1% of breast augmentations performed). Dr. Bohley can discuss your risks during your consultation.

Can breast implants last 30 years?

Breast implants are designed to be lifelong devices. Most cases of breast implant removal or revision are performed because of complications or changing cosmetic goals rather than implant failure.

Can fat be transferred to breasts?

Fat transfer breast augmentation, or natural breast augmentation, is a great alternative to breast implant surgery. You may be a good candidate for this option if youre looking for more subtle augmentation and have excess fat in another area of your body.

Can I move my arms after breast augmentation?

After your procedure, its recommended to avoid lifting or raising your arms over your head during your recovery. This can put pressure on your incisions, so make sure to follow Dr. Bohleys instructions.

Can you breast feed after breast augmentation

Breast implants themselves do not affect your ability to breastfeed-- rather, certain types of incisions used during breast augmentation have a higher chance of causing difficulties by damaging breast tissue. If you plan to breastfeed in the future, Dr. Bohley can discuss the right incision type for you.

Do breast implants cause autoimmune disease?

Some studies have found links between breast implants and autoimmune diseases, but the long-term implications of breast implant use are still under much study. Dr. Bohley can give you the best idea of what to expect during your consultation.

Do breasts sag after breast augmentation?

Breast augmentation cannot stop the natural process of aging. This means that larger implants may cause sagging faster than smaller ones, but this can depend on a variety of factors.

Do you have to replace breast implants every 10 years?

Breast implants are intended to be life-long devices and only need to be replaced if youre experiencing complications. This can include ruptures or conditions like capsular contracture.

Does getting breast implants make you gain weight?

With a healthy diet and regular exercise routine, you are no more likely to gain weight after breast augmentation than you were before.

Does insurance cover breast implants?

Insurance will rarely cover the cost of breast augmentation, as it is considered an elective cosmetic surgery.

How dangerous is breast augmentation surgery?

Like any major surgery, breast augmentation comes with some risks, but in a vast majority of cases is completely safe.

How do I know if my breast implant is leaking?

This can depend on your implant type. Saline-filled implants will simply deflate and the breast will be noticeably flatter. Silicone-filled implants, on the other hand, may need more advanced screening technology to check for leaks.

How do I prepare for breast implants?

Before breast augmentation, Dr. Bohley will give you specific instructions about how to prepare for surgery. This may include stopping or adjusting medications, as well as refraining from using tobacco products and alcohol.

How do you know if you have capsular contracture?

Capsular contracture is usually detectable by unusual firmness, soreness, or asymmetry in the breast, and Dr. Bohley will perform an examination to confirm the condition.

How long are breast augmentation incisions sore?

Most patients will feel tenderness or soreness around their incisions for about two to three weeks after breast augmentation.

How long do breast implants last?

Breast implants last an average of ten or more years. Most patients will not have complications with their breast implants, but you should still have them checked by a plastic surgeon periodically and watch for signs of capsular contracture, leaks, ruptures, or other issues.

how much does breast augmentation cost?

The final cost of breast augmentation varies, but most patients will spend between $5,000 and $10,000.

Is getting a breast augmentation worth it?

Most breast augmentation patients find that their improved self-confidence and the longevity of their results make breast augmentation worth the investment.

Is there an alternative to breast implants?

For some patients, fat grafting may be an alternative to breast implants. A breast lift can also improve the appearance of the breasts, but will not add volume.

Is breast augmentation the same as breast enlargement?

Yes, breast augmentation and breast enlargement are often used interchangeably. Both refer to procedures that increase the size of the breasts, typically using implants or fat transfer.

What’s the difference between breast augmentation and breast lift?

Breast augmentation and breast lift are two distinct procedures with different goals. Breast augmentation is designed to increase the size and improve the shape of the breasts, typically using implants or fat grafting. In contrast, a breast lift, also known as mastopexy, focuses on lifting and reshaping sagging breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue. While a lift does not add volume, it can restore a more youthful, perky appearance. Some patients choose to combine both procedures to achieve fuller, lifted breasts.

What does breast augmentation do?

Breast augmentation enhances the appearance of the breasts by increasing their size and improving their shape and symmetry. The procedure can restore volume lost due to weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or aging. It is often chosen to improve body proportions or to boost confidence and self-esteem. Whether done for cosmetic reasons or reconstructive purposes, breast augmentation is tailored to the individual's goals and body type.

What is the difference between breast augmentation and breast implants?

The difference between breast augmentation and breast implants lies in terminology. Breast augmentation is the name of the surgical procedure itself, while breast implants are the devices placed inside the breasts to achieve the desired size and shape. In other words, breast augmentation is the process, and implants are one of the most common tools used during that process.

What are the requirements for a boob job?

Candidates for breast augmentation should be in good health, have realistic expectations, and have fully developed breasts, typically age 18 or older. Non-smokers or those willing to quit temporarily are ideal. A consultation with Dr. Bohley will help determine if the procedure suits your anatomy and goals.

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Learn More About Breast Augmentation

Many women who undergo breast augmentation greatly improve their self-esteem and feel more confident in their figure. Dr. Bohley takes great pride in helping patients improve not only their appearance but also their quality of life. To schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Bohley to learn more about this procedure, please contact his office at (503) 213-9914 or visit the contact page online.