ZollmanPlastic Surgery
ZollmanEntertainment magazines and television shows are filled with celebrities who have had any number of plastic surgery operations, including breast augmentation surgery using breast implants. But you do not have to be a celebrity to have the figure you desire. Plastic surgeon Wally Zollman, M.D. has more than 25+ years of experience performing breast augmentation with breast implants for our patients.
Breast augmentation is a plastic surgery procedure designed to enhance the size, shape, volume, projection, and/or feel of the breasts using breast implants. During the procedure, breast implants are surgically inserted into a pocket created either above or beneath the chest muscle to achieve the desired result. The benefits of breast augmentation generally include perkier, larger, more symmetrical breasts—in addition to a more balanced figure and a curvier look.
Unfortunately, some people try to demean women interested in this procedure by referring to breast augmentation as a “boob job.” On the contrary, Dr. Zollman respects women and knows that every woman has the right to feel comfortable in her own body.
Not every woman has what she considers the ideal breast size. If you are not happy with the current proportions of your breasts, breast augmentation can be a life-changing procedure that allows you to finally feel comfortable in your own body. Whether you desire to increase your breasts by a cup size to allow you to better fit into designer clothing or bathing suits, or you are interested in larger breast implants to give you the curvaceous figure you have always dreamed about, Dr. Zollman has the insight and experience to perform the breast augmentation procedure that will produce the results you desire.
If you are contemplating breast augmentation surgery, we recommend scheduling a consultation with Dr. Zollman. During this visit, Dr. Zollman will ask questions to get a true idea of your wishes and to determine how he can create your ideal breasts. He will also discuss various options to consider for your breast augmentation surgery, as well as any potential side effects related to breast implants.
Dr. Zollman offers his breast augmentation patients three different types of breast implants to choose from—silicone, saline, and highly cohesive silicone-gel implants. Each type of breast implant comes with different benefits and drawbacks. Dr. Zollman will take the time to discuss each one so that you are fully educated and can choose the option that is best for you. Based on your desired result and a variety of other factors you’ll discuss during your consultation, Dr. Zollman can make a recommendation as to which type of implant can best meet your personal criteria and goals.
The next-generation of traditional silicone breast implants was approved by the FDA in 2006. These implants are composed of a durable, tightly sealed silicone shell that is filled with liquid silicone gel. Compared to earlier models of silicone gel implants, these newer implants are designed and manufactured according to a stricter set of regulations to improve their safety and minimize rupture. Silicone implants are often desired for their more natural feel, and they are available in a wide variety of sizes and projections. When a silicone breast implant ruptures in the breast, it may be relatively undetectable when compared with the more pronounced deflation of a ruptured saline implant. Silicone implants are always pre-filled, which means the volume of silicone inside of a given implant cannot be changed by the surgeon. The FDA limits the use of silicone breast implants for breast augmentation to women who are 22 years old or more; however, in cases of breast reconstruction, women of any age may receive silicone breast implants.
Saline breast implants are filled with a sterile saline (salt-water) solution, while the outer shell of the implant is composed of durable, rubberized silicone. Unlike silicone breast implants, which are pre-filled, saline implants are filled with the appropriate amount of solution during the breast augmentation surgery—this makes the sizing adjustable to a degree and also allows the surgeon to use a smaller incision for inserting the implant. When a saline implant ruptures, the implant noticeably deflates indicating that there is an issue that needs to be addressed. Furthermore, when this type of implant leaks, the saltwater solution is harmlessly absorbed into the body, which is a desirable feature for women who harbor concerns related to silicone leakage. For certain patients, such as those with low body fat, saline implants may not be able to deliver the most natural-looking results or breast feel. The FDA limits the use of saline breast implants to women who are 18 years-old or older.
Cohesive silicone-gel breast implants are the newest type of implants to be approved by the FDA. Compared with more traditional silicone breast implants, cohesive silicone-gel implants are filled with a thicker, firmer gel that better retains its given shape. The consistency of cohesive silicone-gel helps reduce instances of implant complications—which include capsular contracture, rippling, rupture, and leakage—and provides a more uniform, long-lasting breast shape. At Zollman Plastic Surgery the cohesive silicone-gel breast implants we offer are round-shaped, smooth-textured MENTOR® MemoryGel® Xtra breast implants in both moderate and high profile styles. These breast implants have a firmer feel than conventional silicone implants; however, most patients are of the opinion that their cohesive gel implants offer very natural results.
The terms “breast augmentation” and “breast lift” are frequently confused, but the two are actually separate procedures by definition. A breast augmentation involves the use of implants to achieve your ideal size and shape, whereas a breast lift does not. Rather, a breast lift (or “mastopexy”) involves the repositioning of the breasts (and often the nipples, as well) to a higher, “perkier” location and the removal of excess skin to reduce signs of sagginess.
Although these two are different procedures, patients often choose to have both done at once in what we call an augmentation-mastopexy. Combining these two procedures not only enhances the size of the breasts, but also lifts breasts that have begun to sag due to age, weight loss, breastfeeding, or other causes. In cases where sagginess is more mild, Dr. Zollman’s breast augmentation technique can provide a certain degree of “lift” as well for some patients, which may render a mastopexy unnecessary. The choice whether or not to combine the two is up to you and depends on the results you want to see. Dr. Zollman will talk with you about all of your concerns and help you decide if a breast augmentation, breast lift, or a combination of the two is the most ideal option for your goals.
The hour-long breast augmentation procedure that Dr. Zollman offers is performed under general anesthesia, with the incision for the breast implants made inconspicuously around the areola (the dark circle around the nipple). During the procedure, Dr. Zollman places saline or silicone breast implants under all of the chest muscle using a gentle approach that doesn’t involve cutting any tissue. To accomplish this, he separates through the muscle fibers, which allows for a minimal recovery period. The muscles surrounding the implants act as a “built-in elastic bra” to provide additional support after the breast augmentation surgery, creating a more natural and longer-lasting appearance.
For some breast augmentation patients at his practice, Dr. Zollman performs a breast lift procedure during the breast augmentation surgery. Combining these two procedures not only improves the size of the breasts, but also lifts breasts that have begun to sag due to age, weight loss, or breastfeeding. Sometimes a breast lift can be avoided with Dr. Zollman’s breast augmentation technique.
I recently had a breast augmentation surgery & I absolutely love my new boobs! Dr zollman & his staff made me so comfortable not only have I gotten so many compliments & they aren’t totally healed yet but It has also helped my self esteem thank you so much for giving me exactly what I wanted! 🙂
Lauren Jones
June 17, 2015
Due to Dr. Zollman’s gentle surgical approach, most of our breast augmentation patients are up moving and showering the day after surgery. Many even recover over a weekend. Prior to the surgery, local anesthetic is injected into the tissue, which can decrease incisional discomfort during the initial stage of recovery. Following the surgery, minor (and usually temporary) side effects, such as discomfort, inflammation, decreased nipple sensation, and sensitivity of the breasts, may occur. It is important to follow all of your post-operative care instructions and attend all follow-up appointments so that Dr. Zollman can keep a close eye on your healing. If you experience any problems it is recommended that you contact the practice as soon as possible.
During your breast augmentation consultation, Dr. Zollman will thoroughly discuss possible complications from the procedure so that you are fully informed. One of the best ways to avoid developing serious complications during recovery is to make sure you take your medications as prescribed and remain aware of any changes or issues that arise. When complications are detected early, they tend to be much easier to treat.
There is usually some degree of scar tissue that develops at the incision sites following breast augmentation; however, Dr. Zollman is careful to make incisions in areas where they will be less noticeable. Typically, Dr. Zollman prefers to use a peri-areolar incision for breast augmentation because it is the most easily camouflaged type of incision. Once the scar tissue from this approach matures, it is generally well-hidden within the pigment of the areola. If the patient prefers, Dr. Zollman may use an inframammary incision, which can be entirely concealed under the breast fold (depending upon the shape/size/position of the breasts).
Dr. Zollman does not perform breast augmentation with a transaxillary incision (small incision hidden within the armpit) because his signature technique involves placement of the implants under all three chest muscles, which cannot be accomplished using an endoscopic approach.
Caring for your incisions properly after surgery and taking your antibiotics as prescribed will help prevent infection, which can cause unusual scarring.
When it comes to breast implant longevity, the only certainty is that it will vary for each individual. On average, implants can last several years. There are a few different factors that contribute to the implant’s lifespan that Dr. Zollman will review with you during the consultation. This includes the type of implant, attrition, whether the implant may have developed “wear” over the years, desired goals, and possible issues such as ruptures and rippling that may have affected the implants.
In the event of a rupture, it’s important to note that saline implants and silicone / silicone gel implants react in different ways. A saline rupture may generally be easier to detect as the harmless saline leaking out may noticeably decrease the size and volume of the breast and you may be able to see or feel the edges of the implant. Alternatively, silicone / gel silicone implants are typically “silent” ruptures – meaning the solution may largely remain in the capsule with no major signs of visible change. Consequently, it’s important to attend follow-up appointments with Dr. Zollman, keep up with routine self-exams and exams by a physician, and remain attentive to the implants to detect any changes over time.
The average price range for breast augmentation surgery at Zollman Plastic Surgery is $6,600 to $7,700, and the cost can fluctuate from patient to patient based on the unique details of their procedure. When calculating the total price estimate for breast augmentation surgery, Dr. Zollman must consider the following factors:
At the end of your breast augmentation consultation with Dr. Zollman, you will receive a cost quotation for your custom procedure. A knowledgeable member of our office team can review the estimate with you and answer any questions you may have. If you are interested in utilizing plastic surgery financing to help make your breast augmentation surgery more affordable, we are happy to discuss options available through Federal Credit Union and CareCredit®. Each lender offers an easy application process so that you can find out quickly if you are approved for a loan. We also accept payment with major credit cards.
Because breast augmentation is a major life decision, it’s wise to choose a respected surgeon with years of experience and a plethora of qualifications. It is a good idea to ensure that the surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and has an excellent track record of satisfied patients. Finding a surgeon with whom you can openly communicate, and who expresses both in-depth knowledge and care about your needs and goals, is also imperative.
Dr. Zollman is internationally celebrated for his work. Not only is he a board-certified plastic surgeon who has been featured in several medical journals, but he’s known for his compassionate nature. Before each surgery, he takes great care in discussing the entire treatment plan with you so you know what to expect. He has a very gentle bedside manner and always makes sure his patients are as comfortable as possible. Dr. Zollman is also upfront about the risks and possible complications, however rare, associated with surgery, and always encourages patients to express any and all concerns they may have. One of the many reasons behind Dr. Zollman’s success is his astounding ability to communicate. Patients consistently trust him, and he seldom disappoints.
Additionally, Dr. Zollman’s extensive history performing breast augmentation surgery and his meticulous planning and surgical technique allow him to produce results that not only look beautiful, but also natural. All of Dr. Zollman’s procedures are uniquely customized to the individual patient, taking their needs and goals into account along with a treatment approach designed to provide outcomes that successfully enhance the patient’s appearance with results that meet—and perhaps even exceed—their expectations.
Patients seeking to decrease sagging and increase the size of their breasts may opt for a breast lift with implants procedure and receive both options at the same time, which is also very common.
To learn more about the breast augmentation/breast implants procedures at our cosmetic surgery practice, or to schedule a consultation, contact Wally Zollman, M.D. at Zollman Plastic Surgery today.
