Breast Augmentation in Chicago

Now offering shaped cohesive gel "gummy bear" breast implants, including Sientra and Allergan style 410

Breast augmentation enlarges a woman’s breasts through the surgical placement of breast implants. In general, it is a cosmetic procedure performed to fulfill personal desire for larger breasts, to restore breast volume lost after weight reduction or pregnancy, or to balance a difference in breast size.

Advanced 3D Planning for Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation is a highly individualized procedure that should be customized for you and you alone. During your consultation with Dr. Fine or Dr. Schierle you will discuss your goals and expectations, and available options for breast augmentation surgery. We feature the most advanced 3D imaging system available to help plan breast augmentation in Chicago. Using this state-of-the-art technology, we will be able to analyze your breasts precisely before surgery, accurately measuring and documenting any slight assymetries in your breasts of which you may not have been aware. We can then perform "virtual breast augmentation" on your 3D image, allowing you to see a simulation of your result before you go under the knife. Please remember that although this is the most advanced surgical simulation software available, it is still only a computer model and no guarantee is made of the final outcome. Actual results may vary.

Saline vs. Silicone

Patients can choose between breast implants filled with silicone or saline (salt water). Both types are available in a variety of volumes and projections. Past concerns regarding the safety of silicone implants have not been substantiated, but may be a part of your decision making process. Saline implants contain a valve that allows the surgeon to fill the implant to the desired volume with saline after it is inserted behind the breast. Therefore, saline implants can be inserted through a shorter incision than required for a silicone implant of similar volume. Silicone implants do not have a valve, and are filled by the manufacturer to the desired volume. They require a slightly larger incision. Silicone gel implants feel more natural, and there is less likelihood for rippling or irregularity.

Choice of Incision

The most common incisions are under the arm (axillary), at the crease below the breast (inframmamary), or at the border of the pigmented skin surrounding the nipple (areola). Incision patterns are based on the type of implant, degree or enlargement desired, anatomy, and patient and surgeon preferences.

Implant placement

Through the incisions, a pocket is created to hold the implant, either directly behind the breast tissue, or beneath the pectoral muscle and on top of the chest wall. The implant is positioned within this pocket and the incision is closed. Our Chicago breast augmentation specialists will discuss the pros and cons of the different implant pockets with you during your consultation in our plastic surgery practice in Chicago.

Correction of Sagging Breasts

Breast implants do not correct sagging breasts. If you wish to also change the position and shape of sagging breasts, a breast lift may also be performed in conjunction with breast augmentation.