About Breast Augmentation…
Breast augmentation, technically known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure to enhance the size and shape of a woman’s breast for a number of reasons:
- To enhance the body contour of a woman who, for personal reasons, feels her breast size is too small.
- To restore breast volume lost due to weight loss or following pregnancy
- To achieve better symmetry when breasts are moderately disproportionate in size and shape
- To improve the shape of breasts that are sagging or have lost firmness, often used with a breast lift procedure
- To provide the foundation of a breast contour when a breast has been removed or disfigured by surgery to treat breast cancer
- To improve breast appearance or create the appearance of a breast that is missing or disfigured due to trauma, heredity, or congenital abnormalities
By inserting an implant behind each breast, surgeons are able to increase a woman’s bust line by one or more bra cup sizes. If you’re considering breast augmentation, this will give you a basic understanding of the procedure–when it can help, how it’s performed, and what results you can expect. It can’t answer all of your questions, since a lot depends on your individual circumstances. Please ask Fort Worth female plastic surgeon Dr. Kiran Polavarapu, if there is anything you don’t understand about the procedure.
Dr Polavarapu is AMAZING! She gave me exactly what I was wanting in my breast augmentation! She made my experience better than I could imagine & helped calm my nerves! She also answered every question I had and listened to me! If you’re wanting a breast augmentation I totally recommend Dr Polavarapu!
Abbee G.
a year ago
Before and After Photos
Some of our favorites
Candidates for Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation can enhance your appearance and your self-confidence, but it won’t necessarily change your looks to match your ideal, or cause other people to treat you differently. Before you decide to have breast surgery in Fort Worth, think carefully about your expectations and discuss them with your surgeon.
The best candidates for breast augmentation are women who are looking for improvement, not perfection, in the way they look. If you’re physically healthy and realistic in your expectations, you may be a good candidate.
Why Choose Dr. Polavarapu for a Breast Augmentation
Dr. Kiran Polavarapu was recently recognized for the third time by Fort Worth Magazine as a Top Doctor in 2024 and is quickly becoming one of the best female plastic surgeons in the area for breast implants. Her breadth of knowledge and firm commitment to quality guarantee that your breast augmentation is in competent and compassionate hands.
If you are searching for breast enlargement look no further than Dr Polavarapu. She will help you get the most natural-looking results.
Experience
Dr. Polavarapu received her education and training from some of the most competitive and distinguished universities. She trained in advanced plastic surgery at Louisiana State University after completing her general surgery residency at Beth Israel Deaconess, a teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School.
At the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary in Manhattan, she participated in a highly esteemed fellowship program in cosmetic and aesthetic surgery, where she gained valuable experience from famous plastic surgeons.
Female Plastic Surgeon
As the only female fellowship-trained aesthetic surgeon in the area, Dr. Polavarapu brings a special touch to breast enhancement surgery. She has refined and perfected her art of surgical precision at Medical City Fort Worth Hospital where her patients adore her for her warm, compassionate approach, and they feel comfortable knowing she truly understands their goals. It’s not just her expertise that stands out; it’s her genuine care that makes patients feel confident and well-supported every step of the way.
Attention to Detail
Dr. Polavarapu stands out for her exceptional attention to detail. From the first consultation to post-operative care, her dedication to excellence is evident in every step. She focuses on personalized care, ensuring natural-looking results that truly enhance your beauty.
When you choose her, you’re choosing someone with outstanding skill, genuine empathy, and a deep commitment to your satisfaction.
Dr. Polavarapu uses the latest techniques and technologies to ensure the best outcomes, minimizing risks and maximizing satisfaction. She takes the time to listen to her patients, providing the individual attention each person needs. Her goal is to help you achieve your desired results with the utmost care and precision.
Types of Breast Implants
Choosing the implant for you
The choice of implant filler, implant size, shape and other features will be determined based on your breast anatomy, body type and your desired increase in size. Your lifestyle, goals, and personal preferences, as well as your plastic surgeon, Dr. Polavarapu, recommendations, and sound surgical judgment through experience performing plastic surgery in Fort Worth, are also determining factors. Implant manufacturers occasionally introduce new styles and types of implants, and therefore there may be additional options available to you.
Breast implants are medical devices with a solid silicone, rubber shell. The implant shell may be filled with either saline solution (sterile salt water) or elastic silicone gel. Both saline and silicone gel breast implants are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Approval means that an implant has been rigorously researched and tested, and reviewed by an independent panel of physicians for safety.
The size of a breast implant is measured in cubic centimeters (ccs) based on the volume of the saline or silicone filler. Breast implants vary both by filler and in size, but there are additional features to consider:
- Texture: the implant shell may be smooth or textured
- Shape: the implant may have a round profile or one that is anatomic (teardrop or tapered shape)
- Profile: the implant may have a low, medium or high projection (the depth of the implant from the base to the highest point of the implant curve)
- Diameter: the width of the implant measured across it’s base (the side of the implant that will be positioned over the chest wall)
Adult women of any age can benefit greatly from the enhancement breast implants provide. It is usually recommended, however, that a woman’s breasts are fully developed prior to placement of breast implants. Saline implants are FDA approved for augmentation in women 18 years of age and older. Silicone implants are FDA approved for augmentation in women age 22 and older. Saline or silicone implants may be recommended at a younger age if used for reconstruction purposes.
About MENTOR® MemoryGel® Xtra Breast Implants
You should be aware that breast implants are not guaranteed to last a lifetime and future surgery may be required to replace one or both implants. Regular examinations for breast health and to evaluate the condition of your implants are important whether you have chosen saline or silicone breast implants.
Occasionally, breast implants may break or leak. Rupture can occur as a result of injury or even from the normal compression and movement of your breast and implant, causing the man-made shell to leak.
- If a saline-filled implant breaks, the implant will deflate in a few hours and the salt water will be absorbed and naturally expelled by the body.
- If a silicone-gel filled implant leak or break, the elastic silicone gel may remain within the implant shell, or may escape into the breast implant pocket (a capsule of tissue that surrounds the implant). A leaking implant filled with silicone gel may not deflate and may not be noticeable except through imaging techniques such as an MRI.
For this reason, a woman with silicone breast implants is advised to visit her plastic surgeon annually to assess that her implants are functioning well. An ultrasound exam or MRI screening can assess the condition of breast implants; after 3 years it is recommended that all silicone implants be properly screened.
Following the placement of breast implants mammography is technically more difficult. Obtaining the best possible results requires specialized techniques and additional views. You must be candid about your implants when undergoing any diagnostic breast exam. In many cases, an ultrasound exam or MRI may be recommended in addition to mammography.
While the majority of women do not experience these complications, you should discuss each of them with your physician to make sure you understand the risks and consequences of breast augmentation.
Special Considerations and Risks
All surgery carries some uncertainty and risk. Breast augmentation is relatively straightforward. But as with any operation, there are risks associated with surgery and specific complications associated with this procedure.
- Capsular contracture
- Excessive bleeding
- Infection
- Over-sensitivity
- Issues with breast feeding
- Implant breakage and leaks
While the majority of women do not experience these complications, you should discuss each of them with your physician to make sure you understand the risks and consequences of breast augmentation.
What to expect during breast augmentation
What to Expect
In your initial consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your health and explain which surgical techniques are most appropriate for you, based on the condition of your breasts and skin tone. If your breasts are sagging, your doctor may also recommend a breast lift.
Be sure to discuss your expectations frankly with your surgeon. He or she should be equally frank with you, describing your alternatives and the risks and limitations of each. You may want to ask your surgeon for a copy of the manufacturer’s insert that comes with the implant he or she will use — just so you are fully informed about it. And, be sure to tell your surgeon if you smoke, and if you’re taking any medications, vitamins, or other drugs.
Your surgeon should also explain the type of anesthesia to be used, the type of facility where the surgery will be performed, and the costs involved. Because most insurance companies do not consider breast augmentation to be medically necessary, carriers generally do not cover the cost of this procedure.
Your surgeon will give you instructions to prepare for breast augmentation surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding certain vitamins and medications. A mammogram may be recommended prior to your procedure to ensure breast health and serve as a baseline for future comparison.
In addition to explaining your surgical procedure, you plastic surgeon will discuss anesthesia, the recovery process and your obligations as a patient. You will also discuss where your procedure will be performed. You will be asked to sign consent forms to ensure that you fully understand the breast augmentation procedure you will undergo and any risks and potential complications of your surgery. There may be a waiting period of several days to weeks from the time of your consent to the day of surgery.
While making preparations, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery and to help you out for a few days, if needed.
Your surgeon may prefer to perform the operation in an office facility, a freestanding surgery center, or a hospital outpatient facility. Occasionally, the surgery may be done as an inpatient in a hospital, in which case you can plan on staying for a day or two.
Breast augmentation can be performed with a general anesthesia, so you’ll sleep through the entire operation. Some surgeons may use a local anesthesia, combined with a sedative to make you drowsy, so you’ll be relaxed but awake, and may feel some discomfort.
The method of inserting and positioning your implant will depend on your anatomy and your surgeon’s recommendation. The incision can be made either in the crease where the breast meets the chest, around the areola (the dark skin surrounding the nipple), or in the armpit. In addition, a saline implant may be placed through an incision at the navel. Every effort will be made to assure that the incision is placed so resulting scars will be as inconspicuous as possible.
Working through the incision, the surgeon will lift your breast tissue and skin to create a pocket, either directly behind the breast tissue (submammary or subglandular placement) or may be placed beneath the pectoral muscle and on top of the chest wall (submuscular placement). Once the implant is positioned within this pocket, the incisions are closed with sutures, skin adhesive and/or surgical tape. A gauze bandage may be applied over your breasts to help with healing. The surgery usually takes one to two hours to complete. You’ll want to discuss the pros and cons of these alternatives with your doctor before surgery to make sure you fully understand the implications of the procedure he or she recommends for you.
Generally, breast augmentation surgery is considered cosmetic, meaning it is unlikely to be covered by medical insurance. Many plastic surgeons offer patient financing plans, so be sure to ask.
After Your Surgery
Post-Surgical expectations
You’re likely to feel tired and sore for a few days following your surgery, but you’ll be up and around in 24 to 48 hours. Your doctor will give you post-operative instructions to promote your recovery process and lower your risk of complications. Most of your discomfort can be controlled by medication prescribed by your doctor.
Within several days, the gauze dressings, if you have them, will be removed, and you may be given a surgical bra. You should wear it as directed by your surgeon. You may also experience a burning sensation in your nipples for about two weeks, but this will subside as bruising fades.
Your stitches will come out in a week to 10 days, but the swelling in your breasts may take three to five weeks to disappear.
You should be able to return to work within a few days, depending on the level of activity required for your job.
Follow your surgeon’s advice on when to begin exercises and normal activities. Your breasts will probably be sensitive to direct stimulation for two to three weeks, so you should avoid much physical contact. After that, breast contact is fine once your breasts are no longer sore, usually three to four weeks after breast augmentation surgery.
Your scars will be firm and pink for at least six weeks. Then they may remain the same size for several months, or even appear to widen. After several months, your scars will begin to fade, although they will never disappear completely.
Routine mammograms should be continued after breast augmentation for women who are in the appropriate age group, although the mammography technician should use a special technique to assure that you get a reliable reading, as discussed earlier.
For many women, the result of breast augmentation can be satisfying, even exhilarating, as they learn to appreciate their fuller appearance.
Even if you believe your implants are functioning well, it is important that you follow-up as directed with your plastic surgeon to assess the condition of your breast implants. In addition, whether you choose to have breast implants or not, it is essential to your health that you practice a monthly breast self-exam and schedule regular diagnostic breast screenings.
Your decision to have breast augmentation is a highly personal one that not everyone will understand. The important thing is how you feel about it. If you’ve met your goals, then your breast augmentation surgery is a success.
BEFORE
AFTER
How Much Does a Breast Augmentation Cost
Each patient’s needs are unique. Therefore the cost varies. The total cost of your breast implant surgery in Fort Worth will be provided after your personalized consultation. Your final price will depend on several factors, including the following:
- The price of breast surgery depends on factors such as the type and shape of the implants, the incision technique, and the placement of the implants. The cost of breast augmentation surgery starts at $8,950 depending on the type of implants chosen and includes facility, anaesthesia, a post-op garment, scar therapy, and follow up appointments. Facility and anaesthesia fees are based on hours per procedure and are not charged by Dr. Polavarapu.
- Additionally, combining the procedure with a breast lift or using surgical mesh for added support will also increase the overall cost.
- Often, pricing reflects a plastic surgeon’s training, skill, and experience, along with the quality of care provided from consultation to recovery. Dr Polavarapu, an exceptionally skilled expert, uses cutting-edge technology with exceptional care and precision to achieve stunning results. She offers each patient the personalized attention they deserve, and her pricing reflects her advanced expertise and dedication to excellence.
- Usually, insurance doesn’t cover cosmetic procedures like breast augmentation, but they do cover reconstructive surgeries. Dr Polavarapu doesn’t accept insurance for breast enhancement. However, financing options can be discussed during your consultation to make the procedure more accessible for you.
- The cost of breast enhancement in Fort Worth may differ from other areas of the country. Depending on where you have the procedure done, the price can vary, either being higher or lower.
Incision Locations for a Breast Augmentation
It is essential to choose the incision site for your breast augmentation carefully, taking into account your anatomy and desired cosmetic outcome. Thankfully, help is available to assist you in making this choice. Dr. Polavarapu will guide you through all the available options, ensuring you feel confident and informed every step of the way for a successful breast enhancement procedure.
At Polavarapu Plastic Surgery, we use three different incision locations for breast implants. They include:
- Inframammary incision (under the breast)
- Transaxillary incision (through the armpit),
- Periareolar incision (around the nipple)
Inframammary Fold
The inframammary incision, or breastfold incision, is positioned where the breast meets the chest. It was the original approach and remains a favorite among surgeons. The location allows for easy insertion of implants and optimal placement for a natural look. Scars are discreetly hidden under the breast or by a bra. This incision offers excellent control and precision, without added risk of nipple nerve damage.
Transaxillary Incision
The transaxillary incision, or under-the-armpit incision, is a sophisticated technique involving a small cut in the armpit’s natural fold. Through this incision, the surgeon creates a path to the breast and forms a pocket for the implants, which can be placed above or below the muscle.
The incision is typically just an inch to an inch and a half long, making it easy to hide once healed. This approach avoids cutting through the breast tissue, reducing the risk of damage to the mammary glands, and making it a great option for those who plan to breastfeed in the future.
Periareolar Incision
A periareolar incision, or nipple incision, is made between the darker skin around the nipple (the areola) and the surrounding breast skin. Typically done on the lower half of the areola, this incision allows the surgeon to create a breast pocket above or below the muscle for implant placement.
The scar is usually well-hidden and nearly invisible. This method offers excellent control for precise implant positioning and can be reused for future surgeries. However, it carries a slightly higher risk of affecting nipple sensation and breastfeeding.
Breast Implant Placement Options
Breast implants can be placed over or under the muscle, depending on what best suits the patient’s body and preferences. The breast augmentation surgeon At Polavarapu Plastic Surgery, Dr Polavarapu offers both placement options, ensuring the most effective and safest choice for each individual.
Subglandular
Over-the-muscle placement for breast implants, also known as sub-glandular placement, involves inserting the implants between the chest muscle and breast tissue. This technique typically enhances the natural shape of the breast. While silicone implants are the standard choice for this placement, Dr. Polavarapu is also experienced with saline implants.
One notable advantage of sub-glandular placement is the ability to create more cleavage, as the implants can be positioned closer together. This approach is ideal for patients seeking enhanced cleavage and a fuller appearance.
Additionally, recovery time is often shorter with over-the-muscle placement compared to under-the-muscle placement, making it a popular option for many. Dr. Polavarapu will help determine the best choice based on individual anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Subpectoral
Subpectoral placement for breast implants, also known as submuscular placement, involves positioning the implants beneath the pectoralis major muscle. This means the implants are covered by both muscle and breast tissue, offering a more natural look. This option is especially popular among women with a thinner body build, as the muscle provides additional padding, resulting in a smoother contour.
Submuscular placement also tends to create a more gradual slope, mimicking the natural breast shape. It can help reduce the risk of visible rippling and capsular contracture, which is the hardening of tissue around the implant.
However, every patient’s body is unique. Thus, Dr. Polavarapu will work closely with you to determine if under-the-muscle placement is the best option for achieving your desired results.
Breast Augmentation FAQS
Have a specific question? Contact us!
One of the most common reasons for breast augmentation is a woman’s desire to enlarge the size of her breasts because she feels they’re too small. An implant can increase the size of your breasts by one or more cup sizes.
Other reasons for breast augmentation include:
- To replace lost breast volume following weight loss or pregnancy
- To correct asymmetry in size or shape between the two breasts
- To restore contour after breast cancer surgery
- To correct a hereditary condition that causes disfigurement of your breasts
Breast augmentation might also be included along with a breast lift to improve the shape when breasts sag or have lost their firmness.
Implants consist of a silicone shell filled with either saline solution or a silicone gel, and both types are approved by the FDA. Dr. Polavarapu can help you decide the best type of implant for you based on your body type, augmentation goals, and breast anatomy. She offers her educated recommendation based on expected surgical outcomes as well as your lifestyle and personal preferences. Implants can vary in texture, shape, diameter, and projection.
You’re administered general anesthesia for a breast augmentation surgery. Dr. Polavarapu considers your anatomy when determining how to place the incisions and makes every attempt to minimize the resulting scars. Incisions may be in the crease underneath your breast, around the areola, or in your armpit.
Dr. Polavarapu works through the incision to lift your existing breast tissue and create space behind it to place the implant. Alternatively, she may decide that placement behind the pectoral muscle is preferable. Once the implant is positioned, she closes the incisions and bandages your chest to promote healing. The entire procedure takes 1-2 hours.
For the first few days following augmentation surgery, you’ll feel sore and your breasts will be bandaged. In 10 days, Dr. Polavarapu removes the stitches, but some swelling will persist for 3-5 weeks.
If you have a relatively sedentary job, you can return to work after just a few days. Dr. Polavarapu provides detailed instructions about when you can resume exercising and other normal activities. Expect to have some soreness in your breasts for 2-3 weeks.
For more information about breast augmentation surgery, call the office of Polavarapu Plastic Surgery or book a consultation online today.
*Individual results may vary
