<| Procedures|Breast Surgery|Breast Augmentation

Breast Augmentation

Patients aren’t just numbers at Kurkjian Plastic Surgery + Aesthetics; Dr. Kurkjian and our team strive to create personal relationships and establish open lines of communication with every individual, helping us to deliver top-quality care. Throughout the breast augmentation process, we will gladly see you as often as you wish for any questions or concerns.

Procedure: Approximately 1 hour
Anesthesia: General Anesthesia
Recovery: About 1-3 days (for office jobs and non-strenuous activities)
Post-op Visits: 1 day, 1 week, 3 weeks, 6 weeks, 6 months
Cost: Starts at approximately $8,900

Ask our Patient Care Coordinator about affordable payment options as low as $168/month for your Silicone Breast Augmentation

What Is Breast Augmentation?
Breast Augmentation Benefits
Breast Implant Options
Breast Augmentation Incisions
Breast Implant Placement
Breast Augmentation Procedure
Breast Augmentation Recovery
Breast Augmentation Scars
How Long Breast Implants Last
Breast Augmentation Complications
Breast Augmentation Cost
Breast Augmentation FAQs

What Is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation is designed to enhance the size, contour, and/or overall symmetry of the breasts through the placement of implants. At our practice, Fort Worth plastic surgeon Jon Kurkjian, MD is dedicated to the best possible breast augmentation experience for every patient. He will tailor the procedure to your body and your goals while focusing on maximizing aesthetics and minimizing downtime.

Creating a Custom Treatment Plan for Breast Augmentation

Your initial visit will begin with a history and physical exam to ensure you are a good candidate for surgery. Dr. Kurkjian will then inquire about your aesthetic goals for your breast augmentation. Using careful measurements of your body and breasts, Dr. Kurkjian will then determine a specific range of implant sizes, as well as whether you may need a breast lift along with your implants. In general, when the distance from the nipple to the inframammary fold beneath the breasts is 9-10 cm or greater at maximal stretch, a breast lift with implants should strongly be considered. If a lift is not performed in these instances, the final outcome will usually be subpar, often resulting in issues such as a “double bubble.”

Once measurements are taken, Dr. Kurkjian will be able to show you your potential new look on the VECTRA® XT 3D imaging system located in our office. Using this ultra-high resolution camera technology, you will be able to select different breast implants and see an immediate simulation of possible postoperative results! In the past, patients had to stuff their bra with various implants and just hope for the best. Now, using the VECTRA® XT, patients can see an accurate simulation of how each different implant will look in their own body.

From start to finish of the breast augmentation treatment process, Dr. Kurkjian and our staff will make every attempt to ensure optimal results are achieved with as little recovery time as possible. This is done through meticulous surgical technique and a postoperative regimen that focuses on bouncing back to your normal life with limited downtime. To learn more about the various benefits, techniques, and specifics of breast augmentation, we encourage you to explore the information provided below, or contact our office to schedule a consultation.

Would Breast Augmentation Be Beneficial for Me?

Breast augmentation is designed to improve the size, shape, and overall appearance of the breasts with beautiful, natural-looking results. In addition to its cosmetic benefits, the procedure can also create a positive psychological impact by renewing your self-confidence and esteem in the way you look. Among its many advantages, breast enhancement through the placement of implants may be of benefit if you feel that:

Your breasts have lost volume following childbirth
Your breasts have lost their shape and reduced in size following weight loss
One of your breasts is considerably smaller in size than the other
Your breast size makes you less feminine
Your clothes are too large along the bust line
You are self-conscious in a swimsuit

What Are My Breast Implant Options?

Breast implants come in a variety of types and sizes. During an initial consultation, Dr. Kurkjian will be able to guide you through the various options so you feel totally comfortable selecting the ideal implants for your unique needs and goals.

Implant Shapes

Dr. Kurkjian offers round implants for breast augmentation. These are generally an excellent option for patients looking to attain more volume and fullness in the upper portion (upper pole) of their breasts. Dr. Kurkjian offers round saline implants, round cohesive silicone gel implants, and round highly cohesive gel implants. He offers the full complement of breast implants by Mentor®, Allergan® and Sientra®.

Implant Types

The options for implant types include saline, cohesive silicone gel, and highly cohesive silicone gel. This is a personal decision that Dr. Kurkjian will guide you through during your initial consultation.

Saline Breast Implants

Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for individuals who are at least 18 years of age, saline implants consist of a saltwater (saline) solution covered by an outer silicone shell. The chief benefits of saline implants are that they tend to be less expensive than silicone, they can usually be inserted through a smaller incision, and any leak and/or rupture will be easily apparent due to a notable deflation in breast size. While saline implants are good for individuals who have enough breast tissue to hide any potential rippling, in Dr. Kurkjian’s opinion, they do have the tendency to displace laterally and inferiorly more frequently than silicone implants as a result of their rounder shape.

Cohesive Silicone Breast Implants

Cohesive silicone implants are FDA-approved for breast augmentation patients who are 22 or older. These are the most common silicone breast implants that are currently used in the United States. Cohesive silicone implants are typically round in shape and have thicker shells and more cohesive silicone gel than the breast implants of previous generations. In Dr. Kurkjian’s experience, the key benefits of cohesive silicone implants are that they produce outcomes that both look and feel more natural, they have a reduced rate of rippling, and they tend to remain in position better over time due to a flattened posterior surface.

Highly Cohesive Silicone Breast Implants

Also known as “gummy bear” implants, highly cohesive silicone implants are composed of a durable, form-stable silicone gel designed to closely resemble the feel of natural breast tissue. Dr. Kurkjian offers the only round highly cohesive gel—or “gummy bear”—implant, which is made by Sientra®. The highly cohesive nature of these implants may result in a lower risk for visible rippling of the implant.

Implant Sizes

Determining the appropriate breast implant size will depend on a variety of factors, including your unique anatomy and the overall look you desire. Based on measurements taken of your breasts and body, Dr. Kurkjian can narrow down your choices to a specific range of implant sizes that can help you achieve your goals both safely and effectively. In addition, you will be able to virtually “try on” a number of implants using VECTRA® 3D imaging, enabling you to better visualize how different sizes may look on your body.

Ultimately, every implant type, shape, and size has its pros and cons, all of which will be covered in full detail during your consultation. Dr. Kurkjian has considerable experience in breast enhancement surgery with implants, and he is able to help you select the most appropriate option for your unique needs and goals—never pressuring you into any decision you are not comfortable making.

Where Are Breast Augmentation Incisions Made?

There are three main options for breast augmentation incisions:

Transaxillary (armpit)
Periareolar
Inframammary fold

Dr. Kurkjian typically performs the procedure through an inframammary fold incision, which is placed in the crease below the breast. He believes that this incision is ideal for avoiding the bacteria associated with the sweat glands and hair follicles of the armpit as well as the milk ducts that can be encountered through the periareolar approach. In addition to minimizing the risk of infection, the inframammary technique can also help reduce the chance for capsular contracture, which occurs when the internal scar tissue around the implant becomes very thick and hardened.

Secondary benefits of the inframammary incision include improved visualization of the breast pocket to help ensure accurate pocket dissection, and once the incision heals, it tends to be the least visible of the three options due to its position underneath the breasts. Finally, if implant revision surgery is ever needed for any reason, the revisional procedure would most likely be performed through an inframammary fold incision.

Ultimately, the advantages and disadvantages of each incision technique will be covered in full detail at the time of your consultation. If you desire a different incision than the inframammary approach, Dr. Kurkjian will be happy to consider your request and formulate an ideal plan for your surgery.

What Are My Choices for Breast Implant Placement?

Breast implants may be placed in the subglandular, submuscular, or dual plane (submuscular and subglandular) positions. Dr. Kurkjian usually places the implant in the dual plane position (mostly submuscular); however, special considerations are made for specific patients. If you train your pectoralis major muscles extensively, Dr. Kurkjian may recommend a subglandular position to avoid movement of the implant with contraction of that muscle. If you have very little tissue in the lower aspect of your breast, he may recommend a complete submuscular position.

How Does Dr. Kurkjian Perform the Breast Augmentation Procedure?

The breast augmentation procedure is performed under general anesthesia and can typically be completed within one hour. Dr. Kurkjian will carefully place incisions in the optimal locations. Your implants are then inserted behind the breast tissue, underneath the chest muscle, or below both using the dual-plane approach. Some patients may require the addition of surgical mesh during their surgery, which increases the total cost. This is often needed for those with thinner breast tissue who desire a larger implant size. Surgical mesh acts as an internal bra, helping to support the weight of the new implants. After the implants are properly positioned, the incisions can be closed.

The key aspect of Dr. Kurkjian’s breast augmentation process is to minimize your recovery through minimal tissue trauma and meticulous surgical technique. Dr. Kurkjian was trained by world-renowned experts who helped popularize the most fundamental components of a short recovery breast augmentation. These techniques include never touching the ribs during surgery, appropriate implant selection to fit your body, and always using precise dissection techniques that do not pull on your tissues, thus preventing excessive post-surgical discomfort. In addition, he takes great care to prevent bleeding before it ever starts, which can significantly reduce the potential for postoperative pain and bruising.

What Is Recovery from Breast Augmentation Like?

Following breast augmentation surgery, some minor swelling is generally present, though this symptom is temporary and should subside over the course of a few days. Any discomfort experienced is described by most patients as mild and can often be managed effectively with minimal medication. Thanks to Dr. Kurkjian’s careful technique—combined with strict adherence to our practice’s unique postoperative regimen—the majority of women are able to return to normal, non-strenuous activities and routines, including office-based jobs, within one to three days of surgery. However, to help facilitate healing and avoid the risk of potential complications, patients are typically advised to wait at least three weeks before progressively resuming aerobic exercise, and any heavy lifting should be avoided for approximately four to six weeks.

Will I Have Noticeable Scarring After Breast Augmentation?

The final visibility of breast augmentation scars is impacted by the incision location, the wound closure technique utilized, how closely postoperative instructions are followed, and the body’s natural healing response. Dr. Kurkjian often uses an inframammary incision when placing implants, which has the advantage of remaining hidden in the fold underneath the breasts. In addition, he employs a meticulous wound closure method and provides customized directions for scar care—both of which help facilitate scar healing and maturation for an optimal outcome.

Ultimately, breast augmentation scars can generally be concealed by most bathing suit and underwear varieties, and Dr. Kurkjian’s patients tend to have very few—if any—concerns about the final appearance of scarring.

How Long Do Breast Implants Last?

Breast implants typically last 10-20 years before their structural integrity is compromised, warranting a replacement. If any complications arise before then, such as a rupture or leak, a replacement may be covered under the implant manufacturer’s warranty.

What Complications Are Associated with Breast Augmentation?

The most common complications associated with breast augmentation are capsular contracture and implant rippling. Capsular contracture can lead to discomfort for patients and implant rippling occurs when the edges of an implant can be seen or felt through the skin. In rare circumstances, breast implants may rupture, causing a tear or leak in the implant. Additional risks may include changes in implant positioning and breast/nipple sensation.

Do I Need to Worry About Capsular Contracture?

Capsular contracture is a condition characterized by the hardening of scar tissue around breast implants, often leading to an unnatural look and feel. During breast augmentation surgery, Dr. Kurkjian employs multiple techniques to help prevent this potential complication, including the use of the Keller Funnel™ that allows him to place implants directly into the breast pocket without touching the skin and/or any contaminated tissues. In addition, he changes his gloves before placing implants, uses a triple antibiotic solution to irrigate the pocket and minimize any contamination, and stops bleeding before it starts—all of which contribute to a decreased risk of capsular contracture.

How Much Does Breast Augmentation Cost?

At our Fort Worth practice, the cost of breast augmentation typically begins at $8,900, or $10,900 if mesh is included. Exact pricing is influenced by factors such as the type and shape of implants, incision technique, implant placement, and whether or not a breast lift is also performed. In addition, if surgical mesh is needed, this will increase your total cost.

It is important to understand that, when choosing a breast augmentation provider, you should never “shop around” based on cost alone. In many instances, pricing is a reflection of the training, skill, and experience of a plastic surgeon, as well as the quality of care you can expect to receive from consultation through recovery. If the expense of breast augmentation is ever a limiting factor in your decision, plastic surgery financing can often help make treatment more affordable for your unique budget.

Additional Breast Augmentation FAQS

Is breast augmentation safe?

As one of the most popular cosmetic procedures performed in the United States, breast augmentation surgery has been rigorously evaluated by numerous government and independent research organizations for safety and quality purposes. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the use of both silicone and saline-filled implants for the purposes of enhancing or reconstructing breasts. While no surgical procedure is without risk, Dr. Kurkjian and his team are committed to providing you with the highest quality of care in order to minimize any risk of complications. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the safety of breast implants, Dr. Kurkjian is happy to consult with you.

How painful is breast augmentation?

While pain levels are subjective to the individual, most patients who undergo a breast augmentation procedure experience only minimal discomfort during the first few days following surgery. Dr. Kurkjian’s meticulous operative technique is specifically focused on avoiding tissue trauma, which can thus help reduce the risk of complications and promote a smoother, less painful healing process. In fact, many patients do not even require opioid pain medication to manage any post-operative discomfort.

What type of bra should I wear after breast augmentation?

During your pre-surgical consultations, Dr. Kurkjian will recommend different bra types depending on your specific breast implants, anatomy, and postoperative needs. In most cases, however, he does encourage patients to avoid underwire bras for at least six weeks following surgery in order to prevent implants from becoming misshapen and to limit irritation around the healing incisions.

Can I breastfeed with breast implants?

Not all women are capable of breastfeeding due to a variety of factors, but breast augmentation surgery should not interfere with lactation for those who are able when treatment is properly performed by a qualified plastic surgeon. That being said, it is important to communicate with Dr. Kurkjian regarding your future pregnancy and nursing intentions, as this will allow him to tailor your surgery and treatment plan in order to best preserve your ability to breastfeed.

Will breast implants affect future mammogram screenings?

Regular mammograms are vital to protecting your long-term health, and with the correct accommodations, breast implants should not impact your ability to be screened. However, it is important to alert your mammogram technician about your implants in advance so they can properly prepare for your appointment. Your technician may need to take a few additional images from different angles in order to ensure all of your breast tissue is analyzed.

Should I massage my breast implants?

Dr. Kurkjian does not recommend massaging breast implants after surgery. This is outdated advice that was thought to help keep the implant pockets soft. In reality, massaging the implants can often alter the implant pocket and contribute to implant malposition.

If you have any further questions about breast augmentation, or if you would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kurkjian, please do not hesitate to contact our practice online or by phone today.