Yes! All implants are covered by a lifetime warranty. Find out more details at you confidential consultation with Dr Lipton.

Another breast augmentation option includes fat transfer breast augmentation. In a fat transfer breast augmentation, fat is taken from another part of your body and injected into the breast area. Fat transfer has limitations as to the extent of augmentation possible. It can also be much less uniform, or require several procedures.

A breast augmentation procedure can be performed with saline or FDA-approved silicone implants. At Roberts Cosmetic Surgery, we feel it is important that you choose the type of implant that suits your personal tastes and budget. The options will be more completely discussed in your private consultation.

Many individuals choose silicone implants because they like the option of being able to select from various shapes. Silicone also has a very natural feel on all sides of the implant. If you choose silicone, then for your safety and comfort, we use only genuine FDA-approved silicone implants manufactured by Allergan, the United States’ leading implant and cosmetic medical device supplier.

While silicone breast implants provide more customizable shape, the size must be determined before the procedure, and they are more expensive than saline implants.

Saline implants are less expensive than silicone. Saline implants can be customized during the procedure. Silicone can’t. When saline implants are filled during the procedure, we will compare both sides for uniformity. Then we may fill slightly more or less on one side to enhance symmetry with your body. Saline implants come in various sizes, but not in various shapes. Saline implants look and feel natural to touch. However, underneath the implant, it may be possible to discern you have an implant to the touch. It is worth noting that the material used for the outer lining of saline and silicone breast implants is the same.

A gummy breast augmentation utilizes progressive levels of cohesive implants that can have somewhat the consistency of a pair of large gummy bears. These form-stable implants are sometimes referred to as gummy bear implants because the consistency of the silicone gel inside the implant is thicker than traditional silicone gel implants. Thus gummy implants may keep their shape even if the implant shell is broken. These implants are firmer than traditional implants and may be less likely to break. Gummy breast implants are shaped rather than round. They have more projection at the bottom and are tapered towards the top. They might not feel quite as natural as regular silicone implants because of their firmness. If a shaped gummy implant rotates, it may lead to an unusual appearance of the breast. Gummy implants will typically be used after a mastectomy. They may at times be recommended for individuals with very little existing breast tissue.

There are different ways to insert your implants in a breast augmentation procedure. Options include insertion under the arm pits, through the edge of the areola, in the curved crease underneath the breasts or thru the belly button.

Under the arm pits (Transaxillary): Here, the incision is made in the armpit. This method avoids any scars on the breast itself which many women love. It is often referred to as a “scarless” breast augmentation. Depending on the surgeon’s experience, implant positioning can be more challenging, and there might be a slightly higher risk of complications.

In the edge of the areola (Periareolar): This method places the incision along the edge of the areola. It can provide good access and can help with minimal scarring since the scar can blend in with the natural pigmentation. This technique also allows the surgeon to perform a breast lift at the same time if needed. On the flip side, it might affect nipple sensation and could potentially impact future breastfeeding.

Under the fold beneath the breast (Inframammary): This is the most common approach. It offers good visibility which usually allows for correct placement to be achieved more expeditiously, particularly with larger implants, which surgeons may appreciate. The scar is generally well-hidden under the breast. The downside can be a slightly longer recovery and a more noticeable scar if it’s not placed carefully.

Through the belly button (Transumbilical): This where the incision is made at the belly button. It leaves no visible scars on the breast. The downside is that it offers limited control over implant placement and can be technically more complex. Most plastic surgeons do not consider this method a commonly accepted technique.

Each method has its own pros and cons, and the best choice often depends on individual anatomy, the surgeon’s experience, and the desired outcome. These will be discussed with you in your private consultation.

In breast augmentation, implant placement is above the muscle, below the muscle, or partially below the muscle. If above the muscle (subglandular or pre-pectoral), the implant sits between the breast tissue and the chest muscle. If it is placed below the muscle (submuscular or dual-plane), the implant is placed partially or fully under the pectoralis major muscle.

Here are some pros & cons of each technique:

1. Above the Muscle (Subglandular)

Pros

Shorter, less painful recovery (muscle isn’t cut or stretched)

The implant doesn’t move when flexing chest muscles

Might create a fuller, more rounded look, especially in the lower breast

May be a good option for people with significant natural breast tissue

Cons

Mammograms can be a bit more difficult to interpret. This is a key factor for many women.

It may be more visible

Greater risk of noticeable rippling, especially with saline implants

Placing the implant above the muscle may be preferred when the individual has adequate natural breast tissue, a more augmented or round appearance is desired, the individual doesn’t want implant movement during exercise. Competitive athletes or bodybuilders who heavily use chest muscles often select above-the-muscle for this reason.

2. Below the Muscle (Submuscular / Dual-Plane)

Pros

Can provide a more natural slope and contour, especially in the upper breast

Lower risk of visible rippling, which is often a reason when selecting a saline implant

Easier and clearer breast imaging (mammograms). An important reason for many women.

Better coverage for the implant in people with thin tissue

Cons

There can be more discomfort and longer recovery due to muscle involvement

Possible movement when chest muscles flex. Important for body builders

Slightly higher chance of implant displacement if healing isn’t ideal

Placing the implant below the muscle is often preferred when the individual has very little natural breast tissue. With little breast tissue or if the individual is very thin or has a small frame or thin skin tissue, then below muscle may be preferable to avoid the chance of implant visibility.

3. Dual-Plane Technique (Common Variant of Below-Muscle): This is a hybrid approach where the upper implant is under the muscle and the lower portion of the implant is under breast tissue (but over the muscle). Surgeons may use this technique to combine natural upper-breast coverage with more visible lower-breast fullness. This can be useful for people with mild sagging (ptosis) or limited tissue.

Anatomy & situational factors that surgeons consider when helping guide the patient in the decision:

Amount of natural breast tissue

Chest width and rib shape

Skin thickness and elasticity

Implant size and type (saline vs silicone)

Lifestyle (sports, weightlifting, posture)

Risk tolerance for rippling, movement, or scarring

Future plans (pregnancy, weight changes, etc.)
Seem overwhelming? Don’t worry. Dr Lipton will simplify so your choice is easy.

If you have excess fatty tissue extending from the breast to the area under the arm pit that could benefit from liposuction. This procedure is called axcillary tails liposuction. It is an option to help you achieve a more natural sensual contour. This will be discussed further in your private consultation.

Insurance will not typically cover breast augmentation procedures. However, we also accept CareCredit cosmetic medical financing, with instant online approval. Visit www.CareCredit.com to find out how much you qualify for. Breast Augmentation payments as low as $168/mo.

Both saline and silicone implants will last for decades for the vast majority of individuals who receive implants. For some, they will last a lifetime. In instances where a saline implant leaks or deflates, the saline solution is absorbed and expelled naturally by the body, usually in a short period of time. The deflated implant will look smaller than the other implant. If that happens you will need to replace one or both implants. If a silicone implant ruptures, it is less easily detectable because the gel is inert and not absorbed by the body, meaning the look and feel may not change. An MRI may be required to detect a suspected rupture.

We are updating this section of the website with a new 4D imaging system that you can do at home. In the meantime, imaging is available at your consultation if desired.