“Make yourself a priority.” – Maxime Lagacé
Breast Augmentation
Embrace the power of your sensuality as you exude confidence and grace at every turn. Prepare to captivate the world with your unique femininity.
Breast Augmentation: Your Journey to Confidence and Beauty
Experience the transformative impact of breast augmentation with Dr. Stephenson, Atlanta’s leading expert in addressing abnormal breast development and delivering exceptional breast augmentation results. With a reputation for excellence and an eye for natural beauty, Dr. Stephenson is the go-to surgeon for those seeking refined, personalized care.
Understanding Different Types of Breast Jobs
Explore your options with Dr. Stephenson, who offers a wide range of procedures to meet your unique needs—from enhancing volume to correcting asymmetry. Whether you’re considering saline breast implants, silicone breast implants, or a combined approach with a lift, Dr. Stephenson’s focus is on achieving a natural, balanced look that enhances your body’s proportions.
Replacing Breast Implants: When Is It Time?
Over time, some patients may need to consider replacing breast implants due to changes in preference, implant wear, or aesthetic goals. Dr. Stephenson is an expert in breast revision surgery, offering personalized guidance to ensure your results continue to reflect your ideal vision. He will help you navigate your options, whether you’re upgrading to a newer implant type or addressing any concerns that have arisen over time.
Can You Breastfeed with Implants? Will Breastfeeding Ruin My Implants?
A common question many women have is whether they can breastfeed with implants and how it might affect their breast augmentation results. Dr. Stephenson uses advanced techniques that preserve the ability to breastfeed, while minimizing any impact on your implants. He will work with you to determine the best implant placement and incision strategy, ensuring your breasts remain beautiful and functional through all life stages.
Types of Breast Implants: Saline vs. Silicone
Saline Breast Implants
Filled with sterile salt water, saline implants are inserted empty and filled once in place, allowing for a customizable volume. While they may feel slightly firmer and show minor rippling, they are a safe and affordable option for many patients. In the rare event of a rupture, the saline is harmlessly absorbed by the body.
Silicone Breast Implants
Silicone implants are known for their soft, natural feel and consistent results. Filled with a cohesive gel, they maintain their shape even in the rare case of a rupture. This option provides a more lifelike texture and is favored by many patients for its aesthetic appeal and longevity.
Breast Augmentation with Lift (Mastopexy): Elevate Your Look
For those seeking more than just increased volume, Dr. Stephenson offers breast augmentation with lift, a procedure designed to enhance fullness while addressing sagging or drooping. This approach not only adds volume but also elevates the breasts, creating a youthful, perky appearance. Dr. Stephenson’s expertise ensures a tailored approach with four distinct lift techniques—Donut, Lollipop, Anchor, and Crescent—each customized to your anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Breast Revision: Refresh Your Results
Whether you’re looking to improve previous surgery results, replace aging implants, or address complications, Dr. Stephenson specializes in breast revision surgery. With a focus on correcting issues such as implant displacement, asymmetry, or dissatisfaction with size, he delivers outcomes that align with your evolving aesthetic desires. Each revision is approached with precision and care, ensuring that your refreshed results enhance your confidence and comfort.
Breast Implant Removal and Explanation
If you’re considering breast implant removal due to personal preference, health concerns, or changes in your body, Dr. Stephenson offers compassionate, skilled care. His specialized techniques ensure a safe removal process with minimal scarring, restoring your natural look while maintaining an attractive, balanced appearance. Whether it’s part of a breast revision or a standalone procedure, your comfort and satisfaction are his top priorities.
Why Choose Dr. Stephenson for Your Breast Augmentation?
Renowned for his artistry and dedication to patient satisfaction, Dr. Stephenson combines technical expertise with a deep understanding of breast aesthetics. He guides each patient through their unique journey, from initial consultation to stunning final results. Discover Atlanta’s finest breast augmentation experience and feel empowered by the confidence of looking exactly how you envision.
Breast Augmentation Photo Gallery
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Breast Augmentation Frequently Asked Questions
Will you place the implants in front of or behind the muscle?
Dr. Stephenson places the implants in a “dual plane.” This means that the upper and inner areas of the implant are placed behind the muscle, where coverage is necessary in order to prevent the implant from being visible. The lower and lower outer part of the implant have no muscle in front, because in this area we need to usually expand the breast. The dual-plane technique combines the benefits of both being in front and being behind the muscle, while minimizing the downsides of each.
Will I lose sensitivity in my breasts after the augmentation?
There is a risk of some sensation loss. The most common area to lose sensation is on the skin is a small area of the lower outer aspect of the breast. Whether this happens is related to the course of the nerve to this patch of skin. Less common, but more important, is whether sensation is lost in the nipple. The nipple incision is more apt to create this problem, but with all incisions this is a risk. The major nerve to the nipple comes from the very side of the breast, thus the larger the implant, the wider the pocket the greater the chance of this injury. Even when everything is performed perfectly, some clients can permanently lose sensation and all patients must be able to accept that risk before proceeding.
Is my risk of breast cancer higher if I get implants?
How long implants last and how long it will be until you have your next surgery are two different issues that are often confused. A deflated or ruptured implant is not even one of the top reasons for having a revision. The most common reasons patients have another surgery is the development of scar tissue, drooping, implant getting out of position, wanting a change in size, etc. Implants only deflate or rupture at a rate of about 1% per year. Sometimes those deflations or ruptures can be noticed as a change in the breast. At other times the patient cannot detect a difference and the break can only be detected by an MRI.
How long will my implants last?
How long implants last and how long it will be until you have your next surgery are two different issues that are often confused. A deflated or ruptured implant is not even one of the top reasons for having a revision. The most common reasons patients have another surgery is the development of scar tissue, drooping, implant getting out of position, wanting a change in size, etc. Implants only deflate or rupture at a rate of about 1% per year. Sometimes those deflations or ruptures can be noticed as a change in the breast. At other times the patient cannot detect a difference and the break can only be detected by an MRI.
What should I bring with me the day of surgery?
Detailed instructions will be provided to you after you have scheduled your surgery. The bra you will need to wear after surgery will be provided to you. On the day of surgery, it’s recommended to wear a comfortable sweatshirt top that you can easily zip on and off.
How painful is the recovery?
Most patients describe the recovery period as more sore than painful. They may feel achy and experience pressure, but the pain is typically not sharp or severe. Pain gradually builds up, so if you start feeling uncomfortable, taking a pain medication as prescribed by Dr. Stephenson will help alleviate the discomfort.
When can I drive?
You can drive when you are off all narcotic pain medication and feel totally unrestricted by your discomfort such that you could make any movement you might need to safely drive your car. The timeline is different for each client. Dr. Stephenson typically recommends 2 weeks after surgery.
When can I lift my child?
This is tricky. Unfortunately, your child does not understand your restrictions. Your child still needs your love and attention. If you have support from a partner, family member and/ or friend then they can lift and place your child in your arms. If your child is cooperative and weighs up 10 to 35 pounds, Dr, Stephenson recommends waiting 10-14 days, if at all possible. Don’t try to pick up your child if he or she is upset.
When can I sunbathe?
Dr. Stephenson is never an advocate of sunbathing, since sunbathing damages and ages the skin. This is particularly true in the decolletage area, where sun damage makes women look very aged. Despite Dr. Stephenson’s recommendation if his clients elect to sunbathe, they may do so two weeks after surgery, provided that the incision is protected by something that will totally block the sun (SPF rated clothing). It is a good idea to keep the incision totally blocked from sun for a year or so.
What will be my post-operative appointment schedule?
Dr. Stephenson wants to see everyone 48 hours after surgery to be sure that everything is okay. We offer patients frequent visits thereafter, usually at one week, one month, six months, one year, and yearly thereafter. But some patients will come more frequently, some less frequently. We do not charge for these visits. Some people have little questions they want answered, and other people feel fine on their own. He is always available for a patient who wants to come in.
Why do I need to do arm lifts immediately after surgery?
The biggest source of discomfort after a breast augmentation is a muscle that gets stiff. Just think about when you have sat in one position for a long time and the discomfort when you try to move that joint for the first time. Moving freely after surgery will lead to increased comfort during the recovery period.
What do I need to watch out for?
In terms of potential issues, most problems following breast augmentation are noticeable without specific warning. However, it is important to be vigilant for any significant differences between the two sides, such as pain, swelling, or firmness. If there is a significant difference, it is advisable to contact the office.
One uncommon problem to watch out for is hematoma, which is bleeding after surgery. If one breast suddenly swells, becomes hard, and is painful, immediate medical attention is required. Issues with the incision, such as pain, redness, or discharge, should also be reported to the office. For any serious symptoms like shortness of breath, calling 911 is necessary.
When do the stitches need to be removed?
Dr. Stephenson is meticulous concerning his client’s healed incisions. He has found the placement of stitch just beneath skin and removing that stitch 3 weeks after surgery yields a superior aesthetic result.
One uncommon problem to watch out for is hematoma, which is bleeding after surgery. If one breast suddenly swells, becomes hard, and is painful, immediate medical attention is required. Issues with the incision, such as pain, redness, or discharge, should also be reported to the office. For any serious symptoms like shortness of breath, calling 911 is necessary.
What type/size bra should I wear after surgery?
Dr. Stephenson typically recommends the use of a surgical support bra. Dr. Stephenson believes that a supportive bra during the recovery phase prevents the new weight of your breast increasing your discomfort. The bra is provided for his clients as part of their surgical package. When swelling has resolved, and healing is complete the most accurate cup size/bra size can be determined.
What is capsular contracture?
Capsular contracture is the excessive formation of scar tissue around the implant, resulting in a hard, upwardly displaced, and rounded appearance. It is the primary reason for revision surgery following breast augmentation.
When will I need to replace my implants?
There is no specific time that an implant will last. The rate of shell failure is about 1% per year. There is a myth that they need to be redone at 10 years, but that is totally untrue. It is just that by around ten years, probably around half of the patients or so decide to have another operation, even though it is not required to do so.
How will you be sure you placed the implants symmetrically?
The most critical measurement is the distance from the nipple to the bottom of the breast, and even if the nipples are at unequal height, these distances must be the same. If it is short on one side, that nipple will point down; if it is long on one side the nipple will point up. Once that distance from the nipple to the bottom is determined, Dr. Stephenson precisely makes a pocket that will fit the implant. This is yet another reason to favor the under the breast incision, as it affords Dr. Stephenson the most direct, well-lighted visualization of the operation, so that nothing is performed blindly through a dark tunnel.
Can I get regular mammograms after a breast augmentation?
Yes, but extra views of the breasts are necessary. These views are called displacement views. At times, the implants shadow a part of the breast tissue. The displacement views shift breasts away from the implants allowing better visualization of the breasts. If visualization is still an iss for accurate reading of the mammogram, the radiologist may order an ultrasound or an MRI in addition to the mammogram. While insurance companies pay for a standard mammogram, some do not pay for the extra views or extra studies needed because of the breast implants.
Will my breasts look fake?
They will look “fake” if the client desires that result. If your implants are properly sized for you, then they will not look fake. Remember, the thicker the tissue and the smaller the implant, the more natural they will look. The thinner the tissue and the larger the implant, the more “fake” the result.
If my saline implant ruptures will I get sick or be deformed?
When a saline implant deflates or ruptures, it does so over a period of days or weeks. There is no danger with this event, but you will develop asymmetry.
Will I need to replace my implants after pregnancy?
Occasionally after nursing the skin stretches and the breast looks empty and the breasts droops. Occasionally capsular contracture develops. If these issues occur, a revision may be necessary.
Do I need to go to an aftercare facility after my surgery?
In most cases, clients are well enough to go home after a breast augmentation and do not need to go to an aftercare facility. However, some patients may choose to go to an aftercare facility if they do not have someone to watch over them the night of surgery or if their home environment is not conducive to relaxation and recovery. Dr. Stephenson has a vetted list of aftercare facilities for his clients.
When can I resume exercising?
Dr. Stephenson suggests you wait a minimum of 4 weeks to be sure that everything is healed. There is always a chance of causing bleeding if you start much before that time. When you start, listen to your body. You will be a little out of condition and a bit sore. But you will get back to where you were before surgery very quickly.
Does not being able to exercise then exclude sex?
Sex can be resumed as you feel comfortable. Most often patients hit their level of comfort in 3-7 days. Again, respect the fact that you have undergone surgery and try to avoid the manipulation of the incisions.
When can I smoke cigarettes or vape?
Cigarettes pose a particular hazard to patients undergoing this operation. They shrink critical small blood vessels that are important for healing in breast reduction. Smoking cessation is the best choice for our clients overall health. You should cease smoking at least 4 weeks prior to surgery and wait a minimum of three weeks after surgery if you are compelled to resume. This is a very real and very important issue with this operation.
When can I shower/take a bath?
You can take a shower the day after surgery. You should wait about three weeks before taking a bath so that your incisions are somewhat healed.
Why do my breasts appear to be high right after surgery?
The upper breast almost always looks too full immediately after surgery. Some of that is swelling; some of that is that the implant will drop down to the bottom of the breast. Pronounced upper fullness usually goes down between 4-8 weeks, but it continues to improve for a full year.
How long does the swelling last?
Swelling increases after surgery, usually peaking about 5-6 days after surgery. After that, the swelling will subside, rapidly at first, and then gradually. After one month, you’ll think the swelling is gone, but it will still go down more at three months, and even more at six months and even a year, though at that point changes are subtle.
Once the swelling subsides, how much smaller will my breasts become?
Every client is different. Some swell a lot, some swell a little. As the swelling decreases, the breasts will also get softer and more mobile, so that in a sense they can actually be made to look larger once they soften up enough to be pushed up and molded by a bra. Similarly, as swelling goes down, the borders of the breast become better delineated, so that they appear to be more distinct from the chest lending to their fullness.
What do I have to do to care for the incision?
– It is okay to shower 48 hours after surgery and get the incision wet.
– Gently wash your breasts with a soapy washcloth to remove any small crusting.
– After showering, blot the incisions dry and reapply fresh gauze or panty liners.
– Apply a rich moisturizer all over your breasts but avoid putting it over the incisions.
What should I do to prevent scars?
The quality of your healed surgical incision is mostly determined by genetics and your body’s response to surgery. It is not clear how much applying products to scars will influence their final appearance, but most patients want to do something. Some products that have received positive patient feedback include Scar Guard (a liquid containing steroid, Vitamin E, and silicone), silicone gel strips (such as Neosporin scar strips), and silicone ointment (such as Scar Fade). You can obtain these products from our office and start using them as directed by Dr. Stephenson.
Do I have to massage my breasts?
Although there is no scientific data supporting the benefits of breast massage, Dr. Stephenson, with almost two decades of experience, has observed that it achieves two objectives: preventing the pocket from contracting around the implant, which can make the implant rigid and immobile, and helping clients become familiar with the “feel” of their breasts and implants. This familiarity aids in detecting any abnormalities during routine self-exams. Dr. Stephenson advises initiating breast massage 7-10 days after the procedure, and his staff will provide written instructions for the massages.
Is there anything I can do to avoid capsular contracture?
To prevent capsular contracture, it is important to avoid nipple incisions to prevent bacterial contamination. Dr. Stephenson performs a gentle operation with minimal bleeding and bruising which is crucial to minimize the risk of capsular contracture. Additionally, diligent adherence to post-surgery arm exercises, massages, and following all provided instructions is necessary. However, there is no specific vitamin or medicine known to prevent capsular contracture.
Do breast implants have a warranty?
Manufacturer warranties for implants vary and typically cover implant deflation or rupture. These warranties may offer a replacement for the affected implant and its counterpart, with varying levels of financial assistance. It is important to stay updated on the latest warranty information by contacting the office.
