Some women naturally have smaller breasts and have always wanted to change their size, while others may have gone through significant weight loss or pregnancy, affecting breast volume. The solution for both of these concerns can be a breast augmentation procedure. 

At Moraitis Plastic Surgery, serving the area of Trinity, FL, Dr. Moraitis has over 20 years of experience with breast augmentation procedures. Learn more about what to expect from a breast augmentation below. 

The Benefits of Breast Augmentation

A breast augmentation can offer various benefits, both aesthetic and medical. These benefits include the chance to:

  • Even out asymmetrical breasts
  • Add breast volume
  • Change breast shape
  • Rebuild breasts after mastectomy
  • Boost confidence

Breast implants are also long-lasting, allowing you to enjoy the results you want for years. They can enable you to expand your wardrobe options and to look even better in your usual clothes. Breast augmentation is also a safe procedure, especially when an experienced surgeon like Dr. Moraitis performs it. 

Am I a Good Candidate?

Most people are good candidates for breast augmentations. The best candidates are:

  • Are in good overall health
  • Do not smoke
  • Are not pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Have realistic expectations 
  • Are not overweight 
  • Are able to take time to recover
  • Want to increase breast size, shape, or asymmetry

Anyone with underlying health conditions like heart disease, cancer, or other serious illnesses should not undergo a breast augmentation. 

Breast Augmentation Explained

To help ensure a positive experience, it is crucial to know how to prepare, and what to expect from the surgery and recovery process. 

The Consultation

You will need to provide Dr. Moraitis with your complete medical history and a list of all the medications and supplements you take. You will have the chance to ask any questions you have about the procedure. 

Dr. Moraitis will then perform a breast exam to decide where to make the incisions. You will be able to feel the implants and decide on the right size and shape. 

How Can I Prepare?

To prepare for a breast augmentation, we recommend you stop smoking 4-6 weeks before surgery, which can lengthen recovery time, and stop taking blood-thinning and anti-inflammatory medications for at least two weeks before surgery. This includes supplements like St. John’s Wort, fish oil, and vitamin E. 

On the day of surgery, we recommend arriving with no makeup, contact lenses, or jewelry. For eight hours before the procedure, you must avoid eating or drinking.

Finally, because you will undergo general anesthesia, you will need to have someone drive you home after the procedure. 

What Is Surgery Like?

After administering general anesthesia, Dr. Moraitis will begin with the incision, then the placement of the implants. He will then close the incisions with layered sutures. 

What Is Recovery Like?

Recovery requires lots of rest, so you should take at least 5-7 days off from work. You will have a bra or elastic band wrapped around your breasts throughout the recovery process, and Dr. Moraitis will tell you how to take care of the incisions and when you can begin your regular activities. 

Other Things to Consider Before Getting a Breast Augmentation

There are a few other things to consider if you want to get a breast augmentation, including the implant types you want and the most appropriate incision location. 

Implant Types: Which Is Right for Me?

Breast implants come in two types: silicone and saline.

Silicone Breast Implants

Silicone implants are already filled with a gel made of silicone — a thick, viscous substance similar in consistency to human fat. This allows the implants to look and feel more natural and is a good choice if you do not have much breast tissue. 

Saline Breast Implants

Saline breast implants are filled with saline solution after insertion. Dr. Moraitis places them empty and fills them once they are in place. Because they are empty at the moment of insertion, saline implants require a much smaller incision than silicone ones. 

Incision Options: Which Is Right for Me?

The type of incision will vary depending on your body, the type of implants you are getting, and the size you want. 

Transaxillary Incision

Hidden under the armpit, this small incision allows the insertion of a saline implant without making an incision in the breasts. Saline implants work best for this type of incision. 

Periareolar Incision

This is an incision made on the outer edge of the breast areola. It follows the curve of the darker skin around the nipple, separating it from the rest of the breast. This allows Dr. Moraitis to make a pocket inside the breast or right under the muscle, sliding the implant into place. 

Inframammary Incision

The inframammary incision is made in the crease under the breast. It allows larger implants to be inserted in front of the pectoral muscle and behind the mammary glands or behind the pectoral muscles. 

Can Breast Augmentation Be Performed in Combination with Other Procedures?

Dr. Moraitis can perform a breast augmentation together with a tummy tuck as part of a mommy makeover, as well as with CoolSculpting® and more. 

You’re in Good Hands With Moraitis Plastic Surgery

If you want to enhance your breasts, you can turn to Dr. Isidoros Moraitis at Moraitis Plastic Surgery. He serves the Trinity, FL, area, as well as Clearwater and Palm Harbor. Book your consultation today.