Breast Augmentation - Implants, Fat Transfer & What to Expect

Choosing to undergo breast augmentation is a significant decision that combines personal aesthetic goals with medical science. Whether you are looking to restore volume lost after pregnancy, achieve better symmetry, or enhance your natural proportions, understanding the nuances of the procedure is the first step toward a successful outcome. At Elevé Cosmetic Surgery in Miami, Dr. Gevork Tatarian emphasizes a patient-centered approach, ensuring that every individual is educated on their options before stepping into the operating room.

What is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation, clinically known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to increase breast size, change shape, or improve symmetry. Modern cosmetic surgery offers two primary pathways for this enhancement: prosthetic implants or autologous fat transfer.

• Breast Implants: This remains the most common method. Patients can choose between saline (sterile saltwater) or silicone gel implants. Silicone is often preferred for its "natural" feel, while saline can be inserted through smaller incisions.
• Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation: For those seeking a more subtle increase or a "natural" enhancement without foreign objects, fat grafting is an excellent option. Dr. Tatarian harvests fat from areas like the abdomen or thighs via liposuction, purifies it, and strategically injects it into the breast tissue.
• Hybrid Augmentation: In some cases, a combination of a small implant and fat grafting is used to provide both volume and a soft, seamless transition at the edges of the breast.

Identifying the Ideal Candidate

While many women desire breast enhancement, the best candidates are those in good physical health with realistic expectations. During a consultation at Elevé Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Tatarian evaluates your anatomy and medical history to ensure the procedure is safe for you.

You may be a good candidate if:

• You are bothered by the feeling that your breasts are too small.
• Pregnancy, weight loss, or breastfeeding has changed the shape and volume of your breasts.
• You have asymmetry where one breast is significantly different in size or shape than the other.
• Your breasts are fully developed (usually age 18 for saline and 22 for silicone).
• You are a non-smoker, as nicotine can significantly impair the healing process.

Advanced Techniques and Personalization

The field of cosmetic surgery has evolved beyond a "one size fits all" approach. When searching for certified cosmetic surgeons who provide advanced breast augmentation procedures, it is important to look for those who utilize the latest surgical techniques to minimize scarring and optimize "the pocket"-the space where the implant sits.

Dr. Tatarian utilizes several placement techniques depending on the patient's tissue quality and lifestyle. Submuscular placement (under the pectoral muscle) is often recommended to provide more coverage for the implant and reduce the risk of capsular contracture. Conversely, subglandular placement (over the muscle) may be appropriate for patients with sufficient natural breast tissue.

What to Expect During the Surgical Journey

The process begins with a comprehensive consultation. This is the time to review before and after photos of previous patients to see the surgeon's aesthetic style and ensure it aligns with your goals.

On the day of surgery, the procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia. For implant-based surgery, an incision is made in a discreet location-usually under the breast fold (inframammary), around the nipple (periareolar), or in the armpit (transaxillary). The implant is inserted, and the incisions are closed with meticulous internal sutures. If you opt for fat transfer, the procedure involves a longer period of liposuction followed by the injection process, but results in much smaller incision sites.

Recovery and Long-Term Results

Post-operative care is vital for achieving the best aesthetic result. Most patients can return to light desk work within a week, though strenuous exercise and heavy lifting must be avoided for at least four to six weeks.

• Initial Days: You may experience tightness, swelling, and mild bruising. Dr. Tatarian provides a specific pain management protocol to keep you comfortable.
• Support: You will likely wear a surgical bra or a soft sports bra to support the tissues as they heal.
• Settling: It can take several months for the implants to "drop and fluff," reaching their final, natural-looking position.

Choosing the Right Surgeon and Clinic

When looking for top-rated clinics that offer breast augmentation surgery, the surgeon’s credentials and experience should be your primary focus. Because Miami is a global hub for cosmetic surgery, patients have many choices, but not all providers offer the same level of specialized training.

When evaluating a practice, consider the following:

• Certification: Ensure the surgeon is specifically trained in cosmetic surgery of the breast. Dr. Tatarian is a board-certified cosmetic surgeon who completed over 1,200 cases during his surgical training, providing him with a deep understanding of complex anatomy.
• Hospital Privileges: A reputable surgeon should have privileges to perform these surgeries at local hospitals, even if the procedure takes place in a private surgical suite.
• Transparency: The clinic should be open about the risks, benefits, and the types of implants they use.
• Before and After Gallery: Reviewing a surgeon's portfolio allows you to see their consistency and ability to handle various body types.

The decision to enhance your silhouette is a personal journey toward confidence. At Elevé Cosmetic Surgery, we prioritize safety, artistry, and the latest medical advancements to help you achieve your desired look. If you are ready to explore your options, we invite you to contact us and schedule an in-depth consultation with Dr. Tatarian to discuss your goals and view our extensive gallery of results.