Breast Augmentation in Chicago, IL

Breast augmentation surgery is a procedure that resizes the breasts for a fuller, shapelier look. It is generally accepted as one of the most desired cosmetic surgeries available, providing women who dislike their breasts the opportunity for improvement. With the help of implants or fat grafted from the patient's body, this enhancement surgery improves breast shape and size and results in an attractive and youthful outcome. Chicago, IL plastic surgeon Dr. Saeed Chowdhry is experienced in implementing this treatment and performs numerous breast augmentations every year. At your private consultation at SAC Plastic Surgery, Dr. Chowdhry will assess your aesthetic desires and concerns and inform you of all of the choices available, while also customizing a treatment plan to reach your personal goals.

During your initial consultation with Dr. Chowdhry, the appropriate implant will be selected based on your body size and shape, as well as the results you hope to attain. Implants for augmentation are made in an assortment of shapes, sizes, profiles, and textures — each of which is considered carefully in order to reach the desired look. Still, the most commonly used implant types are silicone or saline, both widely popular and approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). An important fact is that individuals considering implants made with saline must be 18 years old, while patients must be a minimum of 22 years old in order to undergo treatment with silicone. Other considerations include a form-stable implant known as a gummy bear implant and fat grafting (known as a fat transfer). In addition to the type of implant used, there are other distinct factors to decide.

Breast implant size is distinguished based on the cubic centimeters (CCs) of saline or silicone used. To understand the right volume, Dr. Chowdhry will measure how much native breast tissue exists and the size you hope to achieve. In the operating room, it is normal for Dr. Chowdhry to temporarily switch out various implants to get a better idea on a suitable fit.

Implants come in either a teardrop or round shape. Both of these shapes are widely used; however, most of our patients select a round implant. It generally looks and feels more natural while adding a fullness to the top of the breast that a majority of our patients like.

Implant profile equates to how far outward the implant appears (projection). In other words, this is what is visible from the side angle. Most projections include low to extra high ranges.

We understand all of these considerations may be overwhelming, but selecting the appropriate implant is somewhat easy once the patient's desires are understood during the consultation. These considerations, coupled with the training of a skilled surgeon like Dr. Chowdhry, will help to ensure the anticipated outcome is met.

The decision to go through with breast enlargement surgery is personal. If you are thinking about having this procedure, it is essential you do it for yourself and nobody else. You should be healthy with breasts that are fully developed and be the proper age to have implants. If you are unhappy with the overall appearance of your chest because they seem lifeless, you could benefit from this cosmetic breast treatment. Moreover, if your breasts have changed due to aging, nursing, or weight loss, this surgical procedure can give them life with increased shape and fullness.

Incision placement, as well as implant location, are decisions that are generally made ahead of surgery. During breast augmentation, the chosen incision is created and then the appropriate breast implant will be placed into its position. There are two techniques that may be chosen for implant placement. These are either under the pectoral muscle or behind the breast tissue but over the pectoral muscle. Where to insert the breast implant depends on varying factors including the overall type and size of the implant, along with Dr. Chowdhry's assessment of the chest area. No matter where the incision is placed, scarring is often hidden within the natural creases and lines of the body. Placement and location are based upon your implant size, activity level, and body type.

Breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure with the patient under general anesthesia. Following the creation of the incision, the appropriate implant will be moved through the incision opening and deposited into a surgically created pocket and then secured into its correct position. Once the implant is in position, the incision is carefully secured with skin adhesives or sutures. Each patient will be taken to a private recovery space and carefully monitored and screened prior to being released. You will be instructed to continue wearing a recovery compression bra to help reduce swelling. Several days after surgery, the bruising and swelling will begin to slowly fade away, and the breasts will start to look and feel normal as they fall into their new position. While individual results vary, most patients can engage in everyday activities within a few days; however, physical exertion such as exercise should be delayed for at least a couple of months. Breast enhancement surgery results in gorgeous outcomes that feel and appear both normal and natural. This procedure oftentimes can be a life changer for women, offering them the opportunity to feel more comfortable in their own skin.

How much does breast augmentation cost?
Your cost for breast augmentation will vary depending on your choices and whether you are also undergoing any complementary surgeries. As soon as your treatment plan is made, Dr. Chowdhry will discuss estimated costs, as well as financing options. To make sure you are happy with your results and that they last a long time, it is better to focus on quality over costs.

Do I need a breast lift or augmentation?
Your plan might include implants, a lift, or both. Breast lift surgery removes loose skin and raises the breasts, while implants enhance the shape and size. During your consultation with Dr. Chowdhry, he will work to understand your concerns and goals before discussing your treatment options. An augmentation and lift are often incorporated in a mommy makeover to revitalize the breasts after breastfeeding and pregnancy.

Can I breastfeed with implants?
If you might want to breastfeed after augmentation surgery, talk to Dr. Chowdhry during your consultation. It's usually possible to breastfeed after augmentation surgery with the right placement and technique. Breastfeeding and pregnancy can affect your results, which is why it is better to wait until your family is complete to undergo breast surgery.

Can I have my implants removed?
You might decide that you would like to remove or replace your implants. Should this happen, Dr. Chowdhry offers breast revision surgery. In revision surgery, your old implants will be either replaced with different implants or removed. If you want to have your implants removed, you might need to have a breast lift because larger implants may stretch your skin. For any concerns or questions after your augmentation surgery, schedule a consultation at SAC Plastic Surgery to learn more about your options.

Do implants cause breast cancer?
The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) is investigating a link between implants and ALCL (anaplastic large cell lymphoma). This isn't breast cancer; it is a cancer of the immune system. According to WHO (World Health Organization), implant-related ALCL is very rare and if caught early, it's highly treatable. Dr. Chowdhry encourages all patients with implants to get frequent screenings for breast cancer. Contact our practice right away if you notice any concerns, such as swelling, after healing from a breast augmentation.

Breast enhancement surgery with implants is well sought out for many excellent reasons. This treatment is considered safe and creates beautiful aesthetic results. With a plethora of available options, you can obtain the bustline you have always wanted. SAC Plastic Surgery is pleased to offer this popular surgery and we welcome you to learn more. Contact our Oak Lawn, IL facility to schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Saeed Chowdhry.