Breast Augmentation in Miami, FL

What is a Breast Augmentation?

What Are My Breast Augmentation Options?

Breast augmentation is an entirely individualized cosmetic outpatient procedure performed using general anesthesia. Most breast augmentation surgeries take between one and three hours to complete. The incision location and implant placement used for your unique breast augmentation procedure will depend on your personal preferences, anatomy, and goals.

• What Are My Breast Implant Options?

  Dr. Mendieta will help you determine the right breast implant type for you, depending on your aesthetic preference, which will be discussed during your consultation.

  Your breast implant options include:

  • Saline — Silicone shell filled with sterile saline
  • Silicone — Silicone shell filled with silicone gel

  Saline breast implants are FDA approved for women 18 years or older. Silicone breast implants are FDA approved for women 22 years or older.

  Are Breast Implants Safe?

  Both types of breast implants are FDA approved, but this does not mean that they are intended to be lifelong devices.

  Some complications that could arise from breast implants include:

  • Implant rupture — Condition where the implant shell tears due to age, wear and tear, and trauma
  • Bottoming out — Condition that occurs when one or both breasts slip below the inframammary line
  • Capsular contracture — Condition which occurs when the natural scar tissue capsule thickens and constricts around the breast implant

  Gummy Bear breast implants are a newer option and tend to reduce the risk of complications.

• Where Will My Breast Incisions Be Located?

  Your breast augmentation incisions will depend on the type of and placement of the implant. Dr. Mendieta will discuss the specific details with you during your consultation.

  • Inframammary Incision — Along the crease beneath the breast
  • Periareolar Incision — Along the edges of the areolas
  • Transaxillary Incision — Within the armpit
  • Transumbilical breast augmentation (TUBA) — Within the navel

• Where Will My Breast Implants Be Placed?

  Your implant placement will be discussed during your consultation with Dr. Mendieta.

  Submuscular

  • Implants are placed underneath the pectoral muscle
  • Ideal for patients with minimal existing breast tissue
  • Better conceals the edges of the implants

  Subglandular

  • Implants are placed above the chest or pectoral muscle and underneath the glandular tissue
  • Ideal for patients with moderate existing breast tissue
  • Requires a shorter recovery period than submuscular placement

What Is Recovery Like After Breast Augmentation?

The recovery timeline will vary from patient to patient, so it is important to follow the post-operative instructions from Dr. Mendieta to ensure a healthy and speedy recovery. Patients who choose to add Exparel for pain to their procedure will experience up to 80% less pain (during and after surgery). However, this will be an added cost. Exparel must be administered during surgery.

Immediately After

Immediately following the surgery, your breasts will be wrapped in a support bra to help ease the swelling and aid the healing process. You should rest immediately following the surgery and avoid any heavy lifting, which could hinder the recovery process. Patients can expect to feel some pressure on their chest, especially when the pectoral muscles are engaged. It is usual for breast augmentation patients to experience bruising, swelling, and soreness.

One Week After

Most of the discomfort and pain should lessen. Most patients feel well enough to return to work within one to two weeks, but you should continue to avoid strenuous activities. The results will become more apparent as the swelling and bruising fade.

One Month After

You should feel ready to return to regular routines after one month. You should continue to wear a support bra and apply scar treatment regularly to lessen the appearance of scars.

Will I Have Scars after Breast Augmentation?

Yes, scarring will likely develop at the incision sites. Patients can help minimize the appearance of scars by keeping them out of the sun and applying scar cream. Scars can also be easily concealed underneath clothing.