Transform Your Body With Exceptional Breast Procedures in Philadelphia
- Board-Certified Surgeon With 21 Years Of Experience
- Performed More Than 5,000 Successful Procedures
- Customized Breast Enhancements For Every Body Type
- Known For Precision, Artistry, and Surgical Safety
Benefits of Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation provides both physical and emotional benefits that often extend far beyond the aesthetic result.
- Enhanced breast volume and improved projection
- Better balance between the upper and lower body
- Restoration of volume lost after pregnancy or aging
- Correction of mild breast asymmetry
- Renewed self-confidence and comfort in clothing and swimwear
What Is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, or augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that enhances breast size and shape through the placement of implants. The goal extends beyond volume alone—it is to achieve symmetry, projection, and balance that enhance the overall body contour.
Patients choose breast augmentation for a variety of reasons, such as restoring youthful curves after pregnancy, enhancing body proportions, or rebuilding confidence after surgery or weight loss.
At Becker Plastic Surgery, Dr. Allison customizes each procedure using advanced surgical planning and a variety of implant options. Whether you desire a subtle, natural increase or a fuller transformation, your procedure is tailored precisely to your anatomy and goals.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Breast augmentation is performed in an accredited surgical facility under general anesthesia or, in select cases, local anesthesia with sedation. The surgery typically takes one to two hours.
Dr. Allison begins with small, precisely placed incisions based on your chosen technique. A pocket is created either beneath the breast tissue or chest muscle to hold the implant securely. Once the implants are inserted and carefully positioned for symmetry, the incisions are closed with layered sutures for optimal healing.
A supportive surgical bra or compression garment is applied to help maintain implant position and reduce swelling. Patients typically return home the same day with detailed post-operative instructions and follow-up appointments scheduled to monitor recovery.
Implant Options
Selecting the right implant type, size, and shape is one of the most important aspects of breast augmentation. Dr. Allison provides detailed guidance to help you make informed, confident decisions.
Saline Implants
Saline implants are filled with a sterile saltwater solution after placement, allowing for minor size adjustments during surgery. They require smaller incisions and are FDA-approved for patients 18 years and older. Saline implants can create a firmer feel and are ideal for patients who prefer natural volume with a slightly more defined upper contour.
Silicone Implants
Silicone implants contain a cohesive gel that closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. Many patients favor silicone implants for their soft, natural texture and realistic movement. They are FDA-approved for patients aged 22 and older.
Gummy Bear Implants
Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation
Breast Augmentation With Lift
Revision Breast Augmentation
Shape and Profile
Round Breast Implants
Teardrop Breast Implants
Placement and Incision Options
Incisions are made in discreet locations to minimize visibility. Common approaches include:
Submuscular Placement
Subglandular Placement
Incisions
- Inframammary (in the fold under the breast)
- Periareolar (along the lower edge of the areola)
- Transaxillary (within the armpit, less common)
Recovery varies depending on the implant type, placement, and individual healing. Mild swelling, tightness, or tenderness are normal and generally improve within the first week.
- Most patients return to desk work or non-strenuous activity after about one week.
- Light exercise may resume at two to three weeks, with full workouts delayed until four to six weeks.
- Supportive bras should be worn continuously during healing to help implants settle naturally.
Final results become more apparent over several weeks as swelling subsides. Breasts soften and drop slightly into a natural position, revealing balanced, feminine contours.
Results are long-lasting, though implants are not lifetime devices. Many patients enjoy their results for ten to fifteen years or longer. Regular checkups and imaging—such as MRI or ultrasound for silicone implants—are recommended to monitor implant integrity.
Recovery and Results
Ideal Candidates
Breast augmentation can be appropriate for women seeking to enhance or restore breast size and shape. Candidates typically:
- Are healthy adults with fully developed breasts
- Are over 18 years old for saline implants or over 22 for silicone implants
- Maintain a stable weight
- Do not smoke or can stop before and after surgery
- Have realistic expectations and understand recovery and maintenance
Some women seek breast augmentation to correct asymmetry, replace lost volume, or refine results after pregnancy or previous surgery. During your consultation, Dr. Allison will review your anatomy and discuss whether augmentation alone—or in combination with a breast lift—will best achieve your goals.
Longevity and Maintenance
With proper care, breast augmentation results can last for many years. Over time, patients may choose to adjust implant size or replace implants as preferences evolve. Maintaining a stable weight, following a healthy lifestyle, and wearing supportive bras help preserve results and overall breast health. For silicone implants, the FDA recommends an ultrasound or MRI beginning 5–6 years after placement and every 2–3 years thereafter.
Potential Risks and Considerations
All surgical procedures carry some risk. Possible complications include bleeding, infection, implant rupture, capsular contracture, or temporary changes in nipple sensation. These issues are uncommon and minimized when surgery is performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon in an accredited facility.
Dr. Allison and the Becker Plastic Surgery team provide detailed pre- and post-operative instructions to ensure the safest experience and the most predictable results. Open communication and proper follow-up care further support healing and patient satisfaction.
Why Choose Becker Plastic Surgery and Dr. David W. Allison?
Dr. David W. Allison is a board-certified plastic surgeon with advanced training in both aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. He is known for his meticulous technique, attention to proportion, and dedication to results that appear natural and refined.
At Becker Plastic Surgery, patients benefit from a collaborative team of specialists serving Philadelphia and New Jersey. Our practice combines surgical excellence, patient education, and compassion to help every individual feel confident in their decision and outcome. From the initial consultation through recovery, your care is personalized, transparent, and centered on safety.
Pick one of our 6 convenient locationsfor Your Plastic Surgery Needs
If you are ready to enhance your confidence and refine your silhouette, schedule a consultation at Becker Plastic Surgery. Dr. David W. Allison and our team of experienced surgeons welcome patients from Philadelphia and throughout New Jersey. Together, we can design a personalized plan that achieves natural, lasting results and reflects your individual goals.
Breast Augmentation FAQs
How long do breast implants last?
Implants are long-lasting but not permanent. Most patients enjoy their results for ten to fifteen years or more before considering replacement or revision.
Will breast augmentation affect sensation?
Some patients experience temporary changes in nipple or breast sensation that typically resolve during healing. Permanent changes are rare.
Can I breastfeed after surgery?
Most women can breastfeed after breast augmentation, depending on incision placement and anatomy. Dr. Allison discusses techniques that help preserve this ability when possible.
What size should I choose?
Dr. Allison guides patients through implant sizing based on anatomy and proportion. You’ll review before-and-after photos and try implant sizers during your consultation.
How visible are the scars?
Incisions are placed discreetly and closed carefully for minimal visibility. With proper scar care and sun protection, they fade significantly over time.
What is the recovery timeline?
Most patients resume light activity within one week and normal routines within four to six weeks. Dr. Allison provides detailed recovery guidance for each stage.
What is the difference between saline and silicone implants?
Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater, while silicone implants contain cohesive gel that feels closer to natural breast tissue. Both are safe and FDA-approved.
Can breast augmentation be combined with a lift?
Yes. Combining augmentation with a breast lift can restore volume and elevate sagging tissue for a more youthful contour.
What kind of anesthesia is used?
Breast augmentation is performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation to ensure comfort and safety.
How can I maintain my results?
Maintaining a stable weight, wearing supportive bras, and following your surgeon’s follow-up schedule help preserve results and implant integrity over time.