Published by Dr. Brandon Richland, MD
Breast augmentation, commonly known as a boob job, involves the use of implants to enhance breast size and shape. It’s a popular choice among women for various reasons, including aesthetic, reconstructive, or size-balancing purposes.
A boob job is a type of cosmetic surgery where breast implants are used to increase the fullness and size of the breasts. There are two main types of implants: saline breast implants, filled with sterile salt water, and silicone breast implants, filled with a silicone gel.
Newport Beach, CA, is a prestigious location known for its high standards in cosmetic surgery. The city boasts numerous skilled plastic surgeons and state-of-the-art medical facilities, ensuring the best care and results for patients seeking boob job surgery in Newport Beach, CA.
Patients often choose Newport Beach for its serene environment, which provides an ideal setting for recovery. The combination of professional medical services and a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere makes Newport Beach a top choice for those considering breast augmentation.
Ideal candidates for boob job surgery are individuals in good overall health who have realistic expectations about the results. Good candidates typically include women looking to enhance their breast size, balance asymmetrical breasts, or restore breast volume lost due to pregnancy, weight loss, or aging.
Selecting the right breast augmentation surgeon in Newport Beach, California (CA) is a decision that greatly impacts the overall success and satisfaction with your surgery. Key factors include checking qualifications, understanding their experience, and ensuring clear communication.
Board Certification
Look for a board-certified plastic surgeon, ideally one certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Such surgeons meet rigorous standards and are often members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. You can verify a surgeon’s certification through reliable sources, ensuring they adhere to the highest levels of professionalism and safety.
Experience and Specialization
Consider the surgeon’s experience specifically in breast augmentation. A surgeon who frequently performs boob job surgeries is more likely to deliver satisfactory results. Look into their portfolio of before-and-after photos and ask about their experience during consultations.
Understanding the consultation process is essential before undergoing boob job surgery. Key points include the questions to ask, what to expect during the consultation, and how to prepare for the surgical procedure.
A one-on-one consultation with your prospective plastic surgeon is a crucial step before moving forward with boob job surgery in Newport Beach. This meeting isn’t just a formality, it’s your chance to gauge whether the surgeon is a good fit for you on both a professional and personal level.
During the consultation, you’ll have the opportunity to evaluate how open, attentive, and thorough the surgeon is in addressing your questions and concerns. This is your time to get clarity on the procedure, understand all potential risks and benefits, and learn about every step from preparation through recovery. An honest and detailed conversation can be the difference between feeling confident about your choice, and having lingering doubts.
Think of the consultation as the beginning of a partnership. Your comfort and trust in your surgeon are just as important as their credentials. Ensuring you feel supported, informed, and heard will help set the foundation for a safe experience and results you’ll love.
Patients should come prepared with a list of questions when meeting their plastic surgeon. Asking about the surgeon’s certification and experience with breast augmentation surgeries is crucial.
Questions about the types and sizes of implants should be addressed to understand the options available.
Ask about the surgical technique that will be used and where the incisions will be placed.
Discuss the types of anesthesia offered and what you can expect during the procedure.
Don’t forget to ask about recovery time, potential risks, and follow-up appointments.
During the breast augmentation consultation, the plastic surgeon will evaluate the patient’s health to determine if they are a suitable candidate for the surgery. They will review the medical history and conduct a physical exam.
The surgeon will discuss the patient’s goals and expectations. They will provide information on the different types of implants and recommend the best options for the desired results.
Boob job surgery, officially known as breast augmentation, involves a series of steps to enhance breast size and shape. Recognizing the medical terms and types of surgeries can help in making informed decisions.
Breast implants: Devices used to increase breast size and improve shape.
Incision: A surgical cut made to insert the implants.
Pocket: The space created by the surgeon to place the implant, either under the breast tissue or the chest muscles.
Capsular contracture: A complication where scar tissue tightens around the implant, potentially causing discomfort or distortion.
General anesthesia: Used to put the patient to sleep during surgery to avoid pain and discomfort.
Breast Implant Illness (BII) is a term used to describe a collection of symptoms that some people experience after receiving breast implants. While BII is not officially recognized as a distinct medical diagnosis, patients have reported a wide range of issues, including:
The exact cause of BII is not well understood, and research is still ongoing. It’s important to know that BII symptoms can vary greatly between individuals and may overlap with other medical conditions. If you have questions or concerns about BII, discuss them openly during your consultation. Your plastic surgeon can provide updated information and guidance tailored to your health history and goals.
Most importantly, while reports of BII have become more common online and in communities, the condition remains rare, and no direct link has been firmly established by scientific studies. If you experience new symptoms after breast augmentation, it’s always best to speak with your surgeon for a thorough evaluation.
In the world of plastic surgery, there are different types of breast augmentations. Some of them are:
Breast Implants: saline or silicone implants.
Fat Transfer:
Combination Procedures:
If there is moderate to significant breast drooping, a breast lift (also known as a mastopexy), may be recommended in addition to implants. While implants can enhance upper breast fullness and provide a minor lift, they are not designed to reposition the breasts higher on the chest wall. For those seeking a noticeable elevation, a breast lift is the only way to remove excess skin and reshape breast tissue for a perkier contour. Think of it this way: without a lift, adding an implant to a drooping breast is a bit like hanging a weight from a slinky; the implant adds volume, but the breast tissue may still sit lower than desired.
In some cases, supportive surgical mesh materials, such as absorbable sutures or mesh, can be used to reinforce and shape the breast, especially when there are signs of tissue laxity or significant drooping.
Staging and Personalization
Breast augmentation and breast lift procedures are often performed in separate stages, though they can sometimes be combined depending on your unique needs and goals. The most suitable approach will be determined during your consultation to ensure the best possible outcome tailored to your body.
Most patients are surprised to learn that breast implants add very little weight to their bodies. Whether you choose saline or silicone implants, the difference on the scale is minor. Typically, a single implant will weigh between 200 to 400 grams, depending on its size and fill type, roughly half a pound or less per side.
For example, a 350cc implant is about 0.77 pounds (350 grams), so a pair typically adds just over a pound altogether. Factors like shape and specific manufacturer will cause slight variations, but the added weight is rarely noticeable in day-to-day life.
If you’re worried about feeling weighed down, rest assured that breast implants are designed to mimic natural breast tissue without significant heaviness. Most people won’t notice any practical impact on comfort, posture, or activity level.
The TransAxillary SubPectoral Augmentation (TASPA) is a specialized breast implant placement method designed to minimize visible scarring and achieve a natural look. With this approach, the incision is made discreetly within the natural crease of the armpit (axilla), rather than on the breast itself. Through this small incision, the surgeon carefully creates a pocket beneath the chest muscle (subpectoral) to insert the implant.
Many patients appreciate this method because:
The TASPA method is a great consideration for those concerned about scars on the breast itself. However, not everyone is a candidate for this specific surgical technique. Discussing your aesthetic goals and anatomy with your surgeon will help determine if the transaxillary approach is right for you.
Anesthesia: Administering general anesthesia to ensure the patient is asleep and pain-free.
Incision: Making the surgical cuts in predefined locations like the inframammary fold, periareolar, or axillary.
Implant Insertion: Creating a pocket to place the implants. This can be above or below the chest muscle.
Closing the Incision: Using sutures, skin adhesive, or surgical tape, ensuring the scars fade over time.
Post-operative Care: Following the surgeon’s instructions for recovery, including monitoring for complications like capsular contracture. This helps in achieving the best possible results from the surgery. For additional details, the breast augmentation surgery page has helpful tips.
Smooth recovery after a boob job hinges on following your surgeon’s aftercare plan, as well as attending scheduled visits in the weeks following your procedure.
Immediately after surgery, expect to return to your surgeon’s office the very next day for your first postoperative check. This initial visit is crucial, as your provider will inspect incisions, ensure proper healing, and answer questions. You’ll likely have a series of short follow-up appointments during the first week, these help monitor your progress and guide you through important early care steps.
During this phase:
Changing Dressings and Garments
You’ll wear a surgical bra or support garment right after surgery. At your first follow-up, your medical team will remove this dressing and let you know which support garment you should use moving forward. Most patients are cleared to shower after this visit.
Stitches (sutures) are usually taken out in stages, often at one week and again at two weeks post-surgery, depending on your healing.
Hygiene and Wound Care
Your plastic surgeon will closely monitor your progress, adjusting instructions as you heal. Attending all recommended appointments is essential for detecting any potential complications early and ensuring you achieve the optimal outcome.
Within a few weeks, most patients are back to their daily routine and enjoying their new look. If you’re aiming for a summer reveal, consider scheduling your surgery in the spring, many patients have the same idea, making spring a popular season for breast augmentation.
Consistent postoperative care and diligent follow-up not only minimize risks but help you make the most of your enhancement, so you can feel confident about your results for years to come.
The cost of boob job surgery in Newport Beach, CA can vary greatly depending on several factors including the type of implants used and additional fees such as anesthesia and medication.
The average cost of breast augmentation surgery ranges widely. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost is around $4,294.
Meanwhile, RealSelf reports an average of $6,675, with prices ranging from $3,900 to $12,500.
Silicone implants typically cost more than saline implants, and fees for anesthesia, surgical facilities, and post-surgery medications can add up.
Insurance coverage for breast surgery can be complex, and it largely depends on whether the procedure is deemed cosmetic or medically necessary.
Typically, breast augmentation, or getting breast implants for cosmetic reasons, is not covered by insurance. This type of surgery is considered elective and does not address a medical condition. Therefore, patients should expect to pay the full cost out-of-pocket.
If breast implants are for reconstructive purposes, such as after a mastectomy, insurance is more likely to cover the procedure. In these cases, the surgery is deemed medically necessary. Patients should provide comprehensive documentation from their healthcare providers to support their claims. This may include medical records and detailed statements from surgeons.
For those hesitant about undergoing surgery, various non-surgical options can enhance breast appearance. These alternatives offer less invasive means to achieve desired results, such as enhanced breast volume and a subtle lift.
Aptos Threading: This technique involves inserting special threads into the breasts to create a lifting effect. The threads are strategically placed to elevate sagging tissues, resulting in a perkier appearance.
Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation: Also known as fat grafting, this method involves transferring fat from other parts of the body to the breasts. This technique increases breast volume and can provide a natural look and feel.
Laser Treatments: Lasers can tighten the skin around the breasts, resulting in a lifted and firmer appearance. This option suits individuals with mild to moderate sagging, ensuring minimal downtime and recovery.
Radiofrequency Therapy: This uses radio waves to heat and tighten the skin, promoting collagen production. It is a non-invasive way to enhance breast firmness and contour, making the breasts appear more youthful.
Ultrasound Therapy: By utilizing ultrasound waves, this treatment can stimulate deep skin layers, leading to increased firmness and a subtle lift. Ideal for those with mild sagging, it offers a painless and quick procedure.
Vampire Breast Lift: This involves injecting platelet-rich plasma (PRP) into the breasts. PRP, derived from the patient’s blood, can enhance tissue regeneration and improve overall breast appearance, providing a natural lift and rejuvenation.
Boob job surgery, or breast augmentation, can offer a mix of benefits and drawbacks. It’s important to weigh these carefully to make an informed decision.
Pros:
Modern breast implants are designed to closely mimic the look and feel of natural breast tissue. Factors such as implant size, placement (above or below the muscle), and the amount of existing breast fat all influence how natural the final result will be. For example, some may find saline implants suitable, while others prefer the soft, cohesive gel of silicone. Your unique anatomy and desired outcome will help determine the best choice, ensuring results that blend seamlessly with your body and enhance your overall appearance.
Cons:
Changing your mind about breast implants is more common than you might think, and fortunately, you have several options. Life circumstances and personal preferences evolve, so it’s natural for your feelings about your initial surgery to shift over time.
If you’re considering a change, you can:
No matter your reasoning, the most important step is to schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. They’ll walk you through your options, answer any questions, and help create a plan that aligns with your current goals. There’s no “one size fits all” solution, so you can feel confident that your care will be personalized along the way.
Undergoing breast augmentation, commonly referred to as a “boob job,” can enhance one’s appearance and self-confidence. However, it’s essential to be aware of the potential side effects, risks, and complications associated with this surgery.
Side Effects
Common side effects of breast augmentation include swelling, bruising, and discomfort at the incision site. Patients might also experience temporary changes in nipple or breast sensation. Medications prescribed post-surgery often help manage these side effects.
Risks
Possible risks include anesthesia complications and bleeding. Infections at the incision site can occur, necessitating further treatment. Additionally, breast implants can interfere with mammography, making breast cancer detection more challenging.
Complications
Capsular contracture, where scar tissue forms around the implant and hardens, can occur. Implant rupture or displacement is another concern, possibly requiring additional surgeries like breast implant removal. Rarely, patients might develop Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL).
Patients considering this surgery should consult professionals and weigh these factors to make an informed decision.
A common concern for many individuals considering breast implants is whether they’ll still be able to breastfeed in the future. The good news is that, for most people, breast augmentation does not prevent breastfeeding, especially when performed by a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon using careful techniques.
It’s important to know that some people are unable to breastfeed even without implants, simply due to natural differences in breast tissue or milk ducts. If you haven’t tried to breastfeed before surgery, you may not know your baseline ability. Implants themselves generally don’t interfere with milk production, but the surgical approach can matter:
For most patients, choosing the right surgical technique and working with an experienced surgeon helps preserve your ability to breastfeed. If nursing is important to you, be sure to discuss it during your consultation, so you can select an approach that suits your future plans.
To ensure a smooth breast augmentation procedure, there are key steps to take beforehand. These include managing medications, adjusting lifestyle habits, and getting ready for the day of the surgery itself.
Medications: Your surgeon may advise stopping certain medications that could increase bleeding risk, like aspirin and some anti-inflammatory drugs. Additionally, you may need to undergo a blood test.
Smoking: If you smoke, it’s crucial to quit well in advance. Smoking can impair healing and increase the risk of complications.
Pre-Surgery Bra: Post-surgery, you’ll likely need a special bra. Seamless sports bras or front-fastening bras can be very helpful, especially if you don’t have assistance.
Day Before Surgery: The day before, make sure to clean your house and set up your recovery area. Drink plenty of water and maintain a healthy diet.
Morning of Surgery: Clean your body thoroughly. Use your usual shampoo and soap, but then wash your body with Hibiclens soap to minimize the risk of infection.
Other Preparations: If you are over 40, a mammogram may be required to monitor breast tissue changes. Also, avoid recreational drugs like cocaine as they can interfere with the effects of anesthesia.
Recovering from a boob job, or breast augmentation surgery, involves several stages, each with specific care instructions and potential challenges. Patients should expect varying recovery times based on factors like the type of implants and placement.
Breast augmentation recovery can span from 6 to 8 weeks, based on individual circumstances and surgery specifics. Initially, patients might experience discomfort due to the incision and placement of the implants.
Patients typically are closely monitored right after anesthesia effects wear off. Pain medication is often prescribed to manage initial pain.
During the first week, drainage tubes and surgical tape may be used to support healing. Stitches usually dissolve or are removed in follow-up visits.
Physical activities like lifting heavy objects should be avoided during the early days to prevent complications. By following their surgeon’s post-operative guidelines, including wearing support bras, patients can ensure a smoother recovery process.
Proper sleep positioning is crucial for healing after your boob job. To protect your results and minimize swelling or discomfort, it’s generally recommended to sleep on your back with your upper body slightly elevated for several weeks after surgery. This helps reduce pressure on your breasts and supports proper implant settling.
You might find it helpful to use extra pillows or a wedge pillow to prop yourself up, think of it as building a cozy nest for recovery. Avoid sleeping on your stomach or sides until your surgeon gives the green light, as these positions can shift the implants or strain the incisions.
Stick with this elevated, on-your-back position as instructed by your surgeon, and you’ll help your body heal efficiently, making for a smoother, more comfortable recovery.
Understanding the duration of results from breast implants helps in setting realistic expectations for those considering the procedure. Factors such as the type of implant and individual body responses play significant roles.
Breast implants generally last between 10 to 20 years. Some may last longer, while others might require replacement sooner due to complications like implant rupture or capsular contracture.
Silicone implants tend to have a longer lifespan compared to saline implants. However, regular monitoring through MRI or ultrasound is essential to detect silent ruptures in silicone implants.
Capsular contracture, where scar tissue forms around the implant, can also necessitate earlier replacement. Regular follow-ups with the surgeon ensure any issues are addressed promptly, helping maintain the desired results.
After undergoing breast augmentation surgery, patients can look forward to noticeable improvements in breast size and shape. The transformation is both physical and psychological, impacting self-confidence and body image.
Patients typically see an increase in breast size and volume immediately following the surgery. Over the next few weeks, as swelling reduces and tissues settle, the final results become more apparent. The breast implants help achieve a fuller, more projected look.
In addition to enhanced volume, many patients experience improved breast symmetry. This is particularly beneficial for those starting with asymmetrical breasts. While initial results are visible right away, the full effect develops gradually as the skin stretches to accommodate the implants and any post-surgical swelling dissipates.
Some individuals may need to wear a bandeau or support garment to help shape their breasts, especially in cases of significant underlying asymmetry. Incision lines will be visible but tend to fade over several months, impacting the overall look.
The boost in self-confidence is another critical result. Feeling more satisfied with their appearance, many patients report enhanced self-esteem and confidence in both personal and social settings.
Before and after photos provide real-life examples of the transformations achieved through breast augmentation. They help potential patients visualize outcomes and set realistic expectations.
Before and after photos are essential for those considering breast implants. These images showcase the changes in breast size, shape, and overall appearance. Photos often highlight results at different stages, from immediately post-surgery to several months later, showing reductions in swelling and final outcomes.
Patients find these galleries useful in assessing the skills of plastic surgeons. They can see a variety of cases, such as increasing breast volume, correcting asymmetry, or enhancing fullness. Viewing these transformations helps individuals feel more confident about their decision to undergo breast augmentation.
Dr. Brandon Richland, MD is one of the best, most respected, top Board Certified Plastic Surgeons in Newport Beach, California specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries.
Driven by his passion for medicine, Dr. Richland obtained his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree from the prestigious program at Saint Louis University (SLU) School of Medicine in 2013. His exceptional skills were recognized when he received the McGraw Hill / Lange Medical Student Academic Achievement Award, and graduated top of his class with Honors. For his undergraduate degree, he attended University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and graduated with Honors in 2009.
To further enhance his surgical expertise, Dr. Richland completed his Residency in Plastic Surgery at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) from 2013 to 2019 earning the Academic Achievement Award twice during this period. A total of 14 years in dedicated schooling and medical residency.
Dr. Richland is actively involved with healthcare and medical societies, as a Diplomate of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, and the California Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Contact Dr. Richland’s Newport Beach Plastic Surgery office today by calling 949-867-6005, or visit RichlandMD.com to schedule your personalized plastic surgery consultation in Newport Beach.
Cover Image Credit: Tatchai / 123RF.com (Licensed). Photo Illustration by: Dr. Brandon Richland, MD.