Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammaplasty, involves using implants to increase breast size, improve shape, and enhance symmetry. At Cary Plastic Surgery, Dr. Donald Hanna uses advanced techniques to deliver results that look and feel natural. This procedure is ideal for women seeking to boost self-confidence, whether addressing post-pregnancy changes or simply desiring a more proportionate figure. From my extensive experience, I've seen how this surgery transforms lives by aligning outer appearance with inner self-image.
Key Benefits
- Increased fullness and projection for a balanced silhouette.
- Restoration of volume after life events like breastfeeding or weight fluctuations.
- Improved clothing fit and expanded wardrobe options.
- Enhanced self-esteem, as many patients report feeling more empowered in personal and professional settings.
What to Expect
During your consultation, we'll discuss your goals, review implant options, and use imaging tools for visualization. The surgery typically takes 1-2 hours under general anesthesia, with incisions placed discreetly. Recovery focuses on minimal downtime, allowing most patients to return to light activities within days.
As a board-certified plastic surgeon with decades of experience at Cary Plastic Surgery in Cary, NC, I've performed breast augmentations on thousands of patients, earning multiple "Voted Best Plastic Surgery" awards in the area. This procedure isn't just about aesthetics - it's about empowering women to feel confident and comfortable in their bodies. Drawing from real patient stories, I've seen how factors like post-pregnancy volume loss or genetic asymmetry drive many to seek this change.
Why Choose Dr. Hanna?
With over 30 years in plastic surgery and thousands of breast augmentations performed, I've honed techniques that minimize scarring, preserve sensation, and deliver natural results. Unlike generic approaches, I focus on your unique anatomy and consider factors like skin elasticity, body frame, and lifestyle to avoid common pitfalls like asymmetry or over-enlargement.
My patients often share how this procedure boosted their self-image without looking 'done.' As a multiple award-winner for Best Plastic Surgery in Cary, NC, I emphasize open communication and complication-free outcomes.
Actual Patient 
Actual Patient Benefits of Breast Augmentation
From my experience, breast augmentation goes beyond size—it's about harmony and confidence. Key benefits include:
- Enhanced fullness and projection for a youthful silhouette.
- Restoration of volume lost after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss—common in 60% of my patients.
- Improved symmetry to address natural asymmetries.
- Better fit in clothing and swimwear, expanding options.
- Boosted self-esteem; many patients report feeling more empowered in daily life. Research suggests long-term satisfaction rates exceed 90% when expectations are aligned.
Visit the American Society of Plastic Surgeons website for complete information on Breast Augmentation.
Ideal Candidates
Ideal candidates are healthy women over 18 (22 for silicone implants per FDA) with realistic goals. From thousands of consultations, I've found success with those seeking enhancement due to:
- Genetically small or asymmetric breasts.
- Post-motherhood changes (e.g., deflation after nursing).
- Weight loss impacts on breast tissue.
You should be at a stable weight, non-smoking, and free from certain medical conditions. If sagging is prominent, we may combine with a breast lift for optimal results.
Schedule a Consultation to find out if you're a candidate.
Breast Augmentation Procedure, Step-by-Step
Performed in our accredited facility, the surgery lasts 1-2 hours under general anesthesia. Steps include:
- Incision:
Typically in the inframammary fold (crease under breast) for minimal visibility—my preferred method to reduce scarring. Alternatives: periareolar or transaxillary.
- Pocket Creation:
Implant placed submuscular (under muscle) for natural coverage or subglandular based on tissue. I use nerve-sparing techniques to preserve nipple sensation.
- Implant Insertion:
Customized size and type inserted.
- Closure:
Layered absorbable sutures; no drains needed in most cases.
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery is faster than many expect! Most patients drive within 2 days and return to desk work in 3-5 days. A typical recovery protocol after breast augmentation may look like this:
- Week 1: Rest, manage mild soreness with pain meds; avoid lifting.
- Weeks 2-4: Light activities; swelling subsides.
- Month 1+: Resume exercise; final shape at 3-6 months ('drop and fluff').
Tips from experience:
Stay hydrated, wear support bras, and attend follow-ups. Complications are rare (<5%), but we monitor your healing process closely. Long-term, breast implants last 10-20+ years without any routine replacement needed unless issues arise.
Risks & Complications
As with any surgery, risks exist but are minimized through expertise. Common risks include scarring, temporary sensation changes, asymmetry, or infection.
We discuss all risks and possible complications from breast lift surgery during your consultation, emphasizing smoking cessation and health optimization to reduce them.
Benefits often outweigh risks for suitable candidates, but informed consent is key.
** Individual results vary
Cost & Financing
We will always provide transparent pricing with no hidden costs. Pricing for silicone implants, anesthesia, and facility fees typically costs around $7,500 but our pricing is structured to YOUR unique goals. Factors like implant type or combined procedures may affect the total cost for your breast augmentation surgery.
We offer financing through CareCredit and accept major cards.
Schedule a consultation and we'll provide you with a personalized quote for your breast augmentation surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does surgery take? About 1-2 hours.
- Will it affect breastfeeding? Rarely; most patients can breastfeed post-surgery.
- What about scars? Minimal and fade over 6-12 months; we offer laser treatments.
- Can I combine with other procedures? Yes, like breast lifts or mommy makeovers for comprehensive results.
- Are implants safe? Yes, extensively studied; I use only smooth, non-textured for lowest risks.