Breast Augmentation

Breast Augmentation is among the more commonly requested cosmetic surgery procedures. Dr. Samuel's office offers saline, silicone, and the new gummibear (410) implants, which can be obtained only through approved surgeons.

Dr. Samuels trained in Dallas where the tear-drop shaped implant was designed, and although she uses it frequently, does not believe that there is a single implant which fits all patients. Therefore, she uses a bio-dimensional approach to the selection of the implant which best fits each patient’s needs. Our office also carries only name brand implants which offer an exceptional warranty should a rupture occur.

Types of Implants

Saline - Saline implants are filled with sterile saline which is a natural body substance. Rupture is very easily detected with a saline implant; however, the risk is very low for a rupture. These implants are FDA approved and offer an excellent warranty.
Silicone (Gel) - Silicone implants are filled with a semi-cohesive (partially sticks together) gel substance that has been tested and was approved by the FDA in 2006. This is not the same gel as the old liquid gel implants used in the 70's, 80's, and even early 90's. Rupture is a little more difficult to detect with a gel device since its substance sticks to itself. In the event of a rupture, a MRI may be required to confirm implant rupture. Many women believe the gel implant feels softer and more similar to actual breast tissue, with less chance of visible or palpable rippling or wrinkling, which may be a appreciated with the saline filled devices.
Gummibear (410) - This implant is currently available to only 80 surgeons in the country who have been invited to participate in Allergan's clinical trial of the Gummibear (Style 410) device. The last part of the clinical trial which is open to patients, prior to this device obtaining final FDA approval for everyone, is for patients who are undergoing revision of a currently implanted breast. The Style 410 implant, although not yet approved by the FDA for first-time breast augmentation patients in the US, has been extensively used and studied in Europe and other countries, where early clinical data shows a reduction in revisions due to both rupture and capsular contracture. The implant is fully cohesive, therefore, in the event of a rupture, the gel would stick to itself. An MRI may be required to confirm implant rupture.

Best Candidate for Breast Augmentation

The surgery is usually performed for women whose breasts are undersized in proportion to the rest of the body, or women who have lost fullness due to pregnancy, aging or weight loss. The surgery is also performed for congenital deformities or breast asymmetry.

Surgical Planning

The surgical procedure involves the insertion of an individually selected implant formulated to give the look and feel of natural breast tissue. The technique for inserting the implants depends on your individual shape, but usually involves an incision concealed in the breast fold, areola, or armpit.

Implants may be placed either on top of or under the chest muscle, depending upon the individual characteristics of each patient.

Mammograms should be done after Breast Augmentation at age appropriate intervals. Please be sure to alert the technician that you have breast implants. Breastfeeding is still an option even after having a breast augmentation. We just ask that you make us aware of this when planning your surgery.

Surgical Preparation

Dr. Julene Samuels and her office staff will give you specific instructions regarding surgical preparation. This includes medications to avoid, eating and drinking, as well as smoking.

If you smoke, be prepared to quit 2 weeks prior to your surgery and not resume for at least 2 weeks after surgery. Medications to avoid include Aspirin, Advil, Aleve, Motrin, Ibuprofen, Naproxen, and any vitamins or herbs.

The surgery will be done under either a local anesthetic with sedation or under light general anesthesia in an outpatient surgical facility, with the option of an overnight stay.

Hospital Options

The surgery may be performed at:

Baptist East Point (no overnight stay - special pricing available at this facility) - Website
Jewish Hospital Downtown
Baptist Hospital East
Jewish Hospital Medical Center East
Norton Brownsboro Hospital

Post-operative Care

Recovery time varies from two to ten days. Patients may resume most normal activities at 4 weeks but no strenuous physical activity for 6 weeks.

Quick Recovery Breast Augmentation - Dr. Samuels learned this technique of breast augmentation in Dallas while training. It limits recovery time to mere days. Many patients comment that they are out to dinner or shopping immediately. This technique has been shown to drastically reduce recovery time and revision rates. View this blog posting to learn more.

You can also view my blog on revisionary surgery or as I have called it The "Hidden Costs" of Procedures.

Patients should be able to return to work within a few days, depending upon the level of activity required for their job.

Sutures will dissolve on their own.

***Call for special surgical pricing (502) 897-9411***