Breast augmentation has become one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures, helping women enhance their breast size, shape, and overall appearance. If you’re considering breast augmentation in Chicago, understanding the process—from preparation to recovery—is essential. At The Krochmal Center for Plastic Surgery, we’re dedicated to providing expert care, personalized solutions, and outstanding results. Whether you’re considering silicone or saline breast implants, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
This guide provides helpful information about breast augmentation surgery in Chicago, highlighting why The Krochmal Center for Plastic Surgery should be your top choice.
What Is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to increase breast size or restore volume lost due to aging, weight loss, or pregnancy. This enhancement is typically achieved using specially crafted implants made of silicone or saline. At The Krochmal Center for Plastic Surgery in Chicago, we offer a wide range of breast implant options to align with your aesthetic goals and unique anatomy.
Why Women Choose Breast Augmentation
- Restore Loss of Volume: After pregnancy or weight loss, breasts may lose their fullness. Breast augmentation can restore the volume for you.
- Enhance Breast Shape: Many women opt for breast implants to achieve a rounder, more symmetrical appearance.
- Boost Confidence: This procedure helps improve self-image, empowering women to feel more confident in their bodies.
- Correct Unevenness: Breast augmentation can address uneven breast sizes by providing a tailored solution to achieve symmetry.
Preparing for Breast Augmentation Surgery in Chicago
1. Schedule a Consultation with a Qualified Surgeon
The first step in your breast augmentation journey is booking a consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon. At The Krochmal Center for Plastic Surgery, we prioritize getting to know you, your expectations, and your concerns. Your personalized consultation will include:
- A detailed evaluation of your medical history.
- An in-depth discussion about silicone vs. saline breast implants.
- Personalized recommendations for the best implant size, shape, and placement based on your body type and goals.
- The opportunity to try on “sizers” to simulate your appearance after the surgery.
- An opportunity to ask any questions or voice concerns about the procedure.
2. Choose the Right Breast Implants
One of the most important decisions you’ll make is selecting the right breast implants. At The Krochmal Center in Chicago, we offer a variety of implant options to suit your needs:
- Silicone Implants: Known for their natural feel and appearance, silicone implants are ideal for achieving a softer and more natural look.
- Gummy Bear Implants (Gel Silicone): A newer option with a cohesive gel formula that maintains its shape even if the outer shell is ruptured.
- Saline Implants: Filled with sterilized saline, these implants provide a slightly firmer texture and are more affordable.
Your surgeon will guide you in choosing the implant type, size, and shape that will best align with your desired aesthetics and lifestyle. We use implants from companies with implant approval in the US (Allergan, Mentor, Sientra, and Motiva).
3. Follow Pre-Surgery Instructions
To ensure safe and effective surgery, adhere to pre-operative instructions provided by your surgeon:
- Avoid medications that thin your blood (e.g., aspirin or ibuprofen) at least two weeks before the procedure.
- Stop smoking several weeks in advance to promote optimal healing.
- Arrange for someone to drive you to and from the surgery center.
- Follow fasting guidelines before surgery, if applicable.
During the Procedure
Understanding the surgical steps beforehand can reduce anxiety and give you confidence going into the procedure. Here’s an overview of what happens during breast augmentation surgery at The Krochmal Center for Plastic Surgery.
1. Anesthesia
Before the procedure begins, you will be administered general anesthesia to ensure you are completely comfortable and pain-free throughout the surgery.
2. Incision Techniques
Your surgeon will make small, carefully placed incisions in discrete areas to minimize visible scarring. The three most common incision options include:
- Inframammary Incision (beneath the breast fold): Offers excellent control and is well-hidden beneath the breast.
- Periareolar Incision (around the areola): Ideal for concealing scars within the natural contours of the areola.
- Transaxillary Incision (in the armpit): Leaves no scars on the breasts themselves.
Your personalized incision plan will be determined during your consultation.
3. Implant Placement
The selected breast implants will be carefully inserted through the incisions and placed in one of two positions:
- Submuscular Placement (under the chest muscle): Provides a more natural look, better suited for women with less natural breast tissue.
- Subfascial Placement (above the chest muscle): Suitable for women with ample breast tissue and may involve a shorter recovery time.
4. Closing the Incisions and Wrapping Up
Once the implants are securely in place, the incisions are closed with sutures, and a surgical bandage is applied to reduce swelling and support the healing process. The entire surgery typically lasts one to two hours.
Recovery After Breast Augmentation Surgery
The recovery process is a critical step in your breast augmentation experience. At The Krochmal Center for Plastic Surgery in Chicago, we prioritize your comfort and provide detailed recovery instructions to ensure a smooth healing process.
1. Post-Surgery Care
Immediately following surgery, you may experience swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort. Here’s what to expect:
- Support Garments: We will provide a surgical bra to support the implants and minimize swelling.
- Pain Management: We wiill provide prescriptions or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to manage any discomfort.
- Rest and Recovery: Most patients are back to doing their “normal activity” within 24 hours after surgery, with the exception of no heavy lifting, exercising, or soaking in water for approximately 1 month.
2. Gradual Healing Timeline
Your body will need some time to adjust to the implants and heal from the surgery:
- First Few Days: Swelling and soreness are common, but light movement is encouraged to promote circulation.
- Weeks 1–2: Many patients return to non-strenuous activities after the first week but must avoid heavy lifting and exercise.
- Weeks 4–8: By this stage, the majority of swelling has subsided, and you can gradually resume your regular exercise routine.
3. Monitoring Results
Follow-up appointments are essential to ensure a healthy recovery. During these visits, your surgeon will monitor your progress and discuss any adjustments or concerns. It may take several months for your breasts to fully settle into their new position.
Why Choose The Krochmal Center for Plastic Surgery?
Choosing the right provider for breast augmentation in Chicago is essential to achieving safe and desirable results. Here’s why The Krochmal Center is the preferred choice for patients seeking breast implants:
Expertise You Can Trust
Dr. Krochmal and his experienced team have successfully performed hundreds of breast augmentation surgeries, consistently delivering natural, personalized results. Their meticulous approach ensures every patient’s unique needs are met with precision and care.
Personalized Consultations
No two patients are the same. At The Krochmal Center for Plastic Surgery, we tailor every plan to match your body type, preferences, and aesthetic goals.
Commitment to Patient Satisfaction
From initial consultation to post-surgery care, our team goes above and beyond to ensure your comfort and satisfaction every step of the way.
Final Thoughts on Breast Augmentation in Chicago
Breast augmentation is more than a cosmetic procedure—it’s an opportunity to enhance your self-confidence and achieve the look you’ve always desired. If you’re considering breast implants in Chicago, trust The Krochmal Center for Plastic Surgery to provide compassionate care and exceptional results.
Start your breast augmentation journey today by contacting The Krochmal Center for Plastic Surgery. Our expert team is ready to help you achieve your goals with confidence and ease.