Breast Augmentation
If you’ve been considering breast augmentation to enhance your curves, restore lost volume, or achieve better symmetry, Dr. Berry Fairchild offers personalized procedures designed to deliver beautiful, natural-looking results. As a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in breast augmentation in Houston and The Woodlands, TX, Dr. Fairchild combines surgical expertise with an artistic eye to create balanced, proportionate outcomes tailored to your body and aesthetic goals.
Whether you desire a subtle enhancement or a more dramatic transformation, Dr. Fairchild takes the time to understand your vision, guiding you through every step of your breast enhancement journey.
Benefits of a Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation with implants or fat transfer is more than just a cosmetic procedure—it’s about helping you feel more confident and comfortable in your own skin. Some of the key benefits include:
- Increasing breast volume for a fuller look
- Enhancing breast shape for better proportion
- Correcting asymmetry for a more balanced appearance
- Restoring lost volume after pregnancy or weight loss
- Boosting self-confidence and body image
Types of Breast Augmentation Procedures
Dr. Fairchild understands that every woman’s body is unique, especially after significant life changes like childbirth or weight loss. With her expertise in advanced breast procedures, she tailors each augmentation to the individual, ensuring results that look natural and complement your overall figure. Whether you’re considering implants, fat transfer, or a combination approach, Dr. Fairchild will help you determine the best option for your goals.
Saline vs Silicone Breast Implants
One of the first choices you’ll make is between saline and silicone breast implants. Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater and can be adjusted in size during surgery. Silicone implants, filled with cohesive silicone gel, provide a softer, more natural feel. Dr. Fairchild will help you choose the best option based on your body type and personal preferences.
Gummy Bear Breast Implants
Also known as cohesive gel implants, gummy bear implants maintain their shape even if the outer shell is compromised. They are firmer than traditional silicone implants and offer a more anatomical, teardrop shape for a natural look.
Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation
For patients seeking a natural enhancement without implants, fat transfer breast augmentation uses liposuction to harvest fat from another area of your body (such as the abdomen or thighs) and inject it into the breasts. This technique creates a subtle, natural-looking enhancement while also contouring other areas of the body.
Breast Lift with Implants
If you experience sagging along with volume loss, a breast lift with implants can restore a youthful, perky shape while adding fullness. This combination procedure provides both lift and volume for long-lasting, beautiful results.
What to Expect During a Consultation
Your consultation with Dr. Fairchild is an opportunity to discuss your goals, ask questions, and receive expert guidance on your breast augmentation options. She will help you make important decisions regarding:
Incision Type
The two most common incision types are:
- Inframammary Incision: Placed in the natural crease beneath the breast for discreet scarring.
- Periareolar Incision: Placed along the lower border of the areola for a subtle, well-concealed scar.
Types of Breast Implants
- Saline Implants: Filled with sterile saltwater during surgery.
- Silicone Implants: Pre-filled with soft silicone gel, mimicking natural breast tissue.
- Gummy Bear Implants: Highly cohesive silicone gel implants with a firmer feel.
Breast Implant Size
Implants come in various sizes, measured in cubic centimeters (CCs). Dr. Fairchild will consider your natural breast width and desired projection to recommend the best size. You will also have the opportunity to try on implant sizers during your consultation.
Implant Placement
Breast implants can be placed:
- Under the muscle (submuscular): Provides a natural slope and reduces the risk of rippling.
- Over the muscle (subglandular): Allows for a shorter recovery time and can be beneficial for certain body types.
Dr. Fairchild will help determine the ideal placement based on your anatomy and lifestyle.
Preparing for Your Breast Surgery
Proper preparation is key to a smooth recovery and long-lasting results. Dr. Fairchild will provide detailed pre-surgical instructions, including:
- Undergoing a baseline mammogram if required
- Avoiding anti-inflammatory medications and aspirin before surgery
Quitting smoking, as it can interfere with healing
Recovery & Aftercare
Dr. Fairchild uses meticulous surgical techniques to minimize tissue damage, helping patients experience minimal discomfort. Most breast augmentation patients find that post-surgical pain subsides within a week, though mild swelling and soreness may persist for a few weeks. To support a smooth recovery:
- Follow Dr. Fairchild’s aftercare instructions carefully
- Take prescribed pain medication as needed
- Avoid strenuous activities until cleared by your surgeon
- Attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress
FAQs About Breast Augmentation
Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Implants?
Ideal candidates for breast augmentation are healthy individuals who wish to enhance their breast size or improve breast symmetry. Non-smokers with realistic expectations typically see the best outcomes.
Does Breast Augmentation With Implants Lead to Breast Cancer?
No, individuals with breast implants do not have a higher risk of breast cancer than those with natural breasts. The FDA, however, believes that individuals with textured implants have a very low but increased risk of developing Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (ALCL). Dr. Fairchild has written extensively on this type of lymphoma forming around textured surface implants and therefore does not use textured implants in her practice for that reason.
How Long Do Breast Implants Last?
Breast implants are designed to be long-lasting, often maintaining results for 10–20 years. However, some patients may require implant replacement or revision surgery over time.
Will I Lose Sensation in My Breasts?
Temporary changes in sensation are common, but most patients regain full sensitivity within a few months. Dr. Fairchild uses precise surgical techniques to minimize nerve disruption.
Can I Breastfeed After Breast Augmentation Procedure?
Breastfeeding with breast implants is possible. Dr. Fairchild uses meticulous surgical skills to avoid damaging the milk ducts when creating breast pockets and placing the breast implants.