Breast augmentation surgery is a common and effective way to help you enhance the size and shape of your breasts.
This procedure is designed to increase the size of the breast using implants. Every breast augmentation is customized to the patient’s aesthetic goals; each procedure is performed differently depending on the patient’s needs.
Commonly, breast augmentation is performed under general anesthesia. During the procedure, there will be incisions made in discreet areas such as under the breast, under the armpit, or around the areola. After the incisions are made, the implants, either silicone or saline, are inserted. The exact placement of the implants, either under or above the muscle, depends on your aesthetic goals. The incisions are then closed to complete the procedure.
When considering a breast augmentation to meet your goals, it is crucial to find the right plastic surgeon. Be sure to look for is that the surgeon is board-certified by the American Board of Medical Specialties.
This certification means that the doctor has been extensively trained in the full range of reconstructive and plastic procedures, has knowledge of how to prevent and handle emergencies during surgery, and has the necessary technical skills and aesthetic judgment to complete your care.
You also want to meet with the surgeon of your choice to discuss the procedure and their experience and make sure that you feel comfortable working with them.
In most cases, recovering fully from breast augmentations surgery can take roughly six weeks. The recovery process depends on the patient, so it is important to speak with your plastic surgeon about your individual recovery needs.
Like with any surgical procedure, complications can arise with breast augmentation surgery such as:
This is the critical recovery period where your breasts will be wrapped, and you will be transported to the recovery room. You should expect to feel groggy and sore immediately after the procedure. Depending on your discomfort, your surgeon can provide you with a local numbing pain block to ease your pain and to help reduce narcotic use. This pain block will last around 12 hours.
Due to the anesthesia, you will need to make sure you have a family member or friend who can help you into the vehicle, drive you home, and help you into the house.
Swelling, tightness, and pressure in the chest, shoulder, neck and back areas should be expected. You may also experience some pain. These 3 to 5 days are when you can expect to feel the most uncomfortable.
It is also normal to experience bruising and minor bleeding from your incision sites. Keep an eye on the bleeding and if it doesn’t feel right or the bleeding won’t stop, contact your doctor immediately.
Follow your instructions provided by the plastic surgeon for how often to take your prescribed medications such as antibiotics, muscles relaxers, or pain medications. You will also need to follow the instructions provided by your doctor on how to care for your incisions. Be sure to follow the instructions on which bras or garments to wear during your recovery to help you feel comfortable and to help prevent infection at the incision sites.
At 1-week post-surgery, you should be experiencing minimal discomfort that can be managed with over-the-counter medications. You will visit with your surgeon at this time, and you can also expect to resume normal but light daily activities.
If you work a low-impact job, you will likely be cleared to return to driving and to work. You will also likely be encouraged to take a few short walks 1 to 2 times a day to reduce stiffness and your risk of clotting.
At this point in your recovery, you will be getting back to your normal routine. Within 4-6 weeks, you should be able to resume your regular exercise routine, but until you are cleared by your doctor, only light exercise will be permitted.
If you have a labor-intensive job, you will likely have to wait 3-4 weeks after your surgery before you return to your job. You will also need to avoid heavy lifting and vigorous physical activity like running or lifting weights.
Two months after your surgery, your doctor will assess your healing, and if everything has healed as expected, they will likely clear you for all of your normal work and recreational activities. Be sure to follow all of your doctor’s instructions for recovery to ensure you heal correctly and avoid any complications.
If you are ready to achieve your goals through breast augmentation, Gaia Plastic Surgery can help! Our experienced team can help you achieve your breast augmentation goals and give you the confidence you desire!
We specialize in non-invasive and invasive Cosmetic Plastic Surgery in Miami Florida. Unlike many other practices, we personalized your care by making sure that we understand your goals.
Liposuction to Upper Thighs, Abdomen, Flanks and ArmsDr. Alvarez is simply amazing. This is now my 3 procedure with him. I have had blepharoplasty, rhinoplasty and most recently liposuction on my upper thighs, abdomen, flanks and arms. I am so amazed at the result I have from the liposuction so far post op at 3 months. I worked out 6 days a week and could not get the body I wanted. Dr. Alvarez took a great amount of time with me to discuss what I wanted and how he will go about helping me achieve my goal. The day of surgery he met with me to prep me for the surgery as well as ease any fears I may have had. After surgery I felt way better than I anticipated as far as any pain or discomfort, so I knew he took the time to gently and methodical remove the fat. As usually he always calls you in the evening to check up on you and how you are feeling. He made himself available to me at anytime to call him if I was concerned about anything. Then I had my first post op appointment. Wow! I could not believe what I was seeing only a few days after surgery. My body shape was already looking great. I have since been able to go back to the gym. I had already saw amazing results from Dr. Alvarez but with my work out I saw my body look way better than I could have imagined. I would have never seen the results of my workout if it had not been for Dr. Alvarez. His demeanor and expertise is in a class of its own with how excellent he is.
- The Stages of Post Breast Augmentation Recovery - June 28, 2021
- Breast Lift vs. Breast Reduction – What am I the Best Candidate For? - June 28, 2021
- Preparing Your House Post-Surgery - May 25, 2021
Breast CancerI consider it a blessing to have gone on my breast cancer journey with Dr. Clavijo and his staff. His knowledge and surgical skills allowed my to put my total trust in him. Dr. Clavijo answered every question and concern I had about my illness. His kindness, compassion, and sense of humor took the horribleness out of a devastating diagnosis.
- The Stages of Post Breast Augmentation Recovery - June 28, 2021
- Breast Lift vs. Breast Reduction – What am I the Best Candidate For? - June 28, 2021
- Preparing Your House Post-Surgery - May 25, 2021
Perfect Breast AugmentationI received a breast augmentation with Dr.Clavijo over a month ago and I couldnt be happier with my results. I went from an A to a D and they look so perfect and natural! He honestly is expert and truly takes pride in his work. He knows what looks best as well as what’s the safest for your body. Some doctors will just do whatever you request no matter what the outcome is but not him. Also he is very patient and caring before and especially after you’re surgery. He’ll call and check up on you multiple times after your surgery and also have you come in if you have any concerns like I did. I will definitely recommend him to anyone wanting a breast augmentation!
- The Stages of Post Breast Augmentation Recovery - June 28, 2021
- Breast Lift vs. Breast Reduction – What am I the Best Candidate For? - June 28, 2021
- Preparing Your House Post-Surgery - May 25, 2021
Fantastic Doctor and Experience!I had wanted a tummy tuck for years but was afraid. I finally decided to go ahead after a great consultation with Dr. Clavio-Alverez. I had the procedure this March 2020, that included muscle tightening and liposuction.
I was expecting a hard recovery from what people told me and what I had read. I’m still amazed at the results and how pain-free the procedure was. I was feeling great by the second week. I’m 53 and have a “few” extra pounds:) so I was expecting to be satisfied but I ended up completely thrilled. I can’t believe how contoured my middle looks!
The staff is friendly and helpful and Dr. Clavio-Alverez always gets right back quickly with answers to any questions.
I’d highly recommend this doctor!
- The Stages of Post Breast Augmentation Recovery - June 28, 2021
- Breast Lift vs. Breast Reduction – What am I the Best Candidate For? - June 28, 2021
- Preparing Your House Post-Surgery - May 25, 2021
I Could Not Possible Be Happier with my Experience and the Results!!I could not possibly be happier with my overall experience at Renova! The staff, environment, and Dr. Clavijo-Alvarez were extremely welcoming and kind. I received a rhinoplasty from him and am ecstatic with the result. I never imagined it would turn out as amazing as it did and I will be forever grateful for this experience! Following my surgery, Dr. Clavijo-Alvarez gave me his personal phone number and called me once i was settled in at home just to check in and see if I had any questions, which was extremely appreciated. I can’t imagine ever having even close to a better experience anywhere else than Renova!
- The Stages of Post Breast Augmentation Recovery - June 28, 2021
- Breast Lift vs. Breast Reduction – What am I the Best Candidate For? - June 28, 2021
- Preparing Your House Post-Surgery - May 25, 2021
Amazing ExperienceI had a breast reduction by Dr. Alvarez on May 4, 2020. He is such a caring doctor and he did AMAZING work! I would highly recommend him to friends & family! He explains everything and leaves nothing out.
- The Stages of Post Breast Augmentation Recovery - June 28, 2021
- Breast Lift vs. Breast Reduction – What am I the Best Candidate For? - June 28, 2021
- Preparing Your House Post-Surgery - May 25, 2021
Great First Experience!This was my first time getting lip filler, and it couldn’t have gone better. Getting lip filler was something I had been thinking about doing for awhile, but I was always nervous since I am terrified of needles. I felt no pain, and was completely at ease the entire time thanks to Dr. Clavijo-Alvarez. He explained step by step what he was doing, and went very slowly. The results are natural and I have had no bruising!
- The Stages of Post Breast Augmentation Recovery - June 28, 2021
- Breast Lift vs. Breast Reduction – What am I the Best Candidate For? - June 28, 2021
- Preparing Your House Post-Surgery - May 25, 2021
Dr. Clavijo-Alvarez is the Greatest!Dr. Clavijo-Alvarez is amazing! A girl I work with recommended him for a breast augmentation and I immediately felt comfortable with him. He was very patient through my decision process and was realistic about expectations and sizing options for my frame. I started as an A cup and decided to proceed with silicone under the muscle. I was able to get in for surgery pretty quickly and the recovery process was surprisingly very easy! Very minimal down time and much less painful than I was anticipating. I am now 6 weeks out and so happy with my results! I feel much more confident and EVERYTHING fits me much better. Dr. Clavijo-Alvarez does an amazing job and makes sure you feel safe and comfortable in the healing process – he was always quick to respond to my questions! If I had to do it all over again I would choose him again in heart beat!
- The Stages of Post Breast Augmentation Recovery - June 28, 2021
- Breast Lift vs. Breast Reduction – What am I the Best Candidate For? - June 28, 2021
- Preparing Your House Post-Surgery - May 25, 2021
Amazing Experience All Around! (27yo who was looking to get a breast augmentation and rhinoplasty)Just a small update with pictures, obviously still healing (2 weeks post op) I love my results! All of my initial problem areas were addressed exactly as I wanted them to be. I wanted to still look like myself without the “overdone” look especially for my nose. Everything is healing great. I’m happy with my 2 week post op results, so I’m excited to see everything once everything completely settles into place. I started as 34B on my breasts and went with 300cc implants I didn’t want them too large or small.. I’m 5’3” 115lbs so they fit well on my frame and I’m very happy with those as well.
- The Stages of Post Breast Augmentation Recovery - June 28, 2021
- Breast Lift vs. Breast Reduction – What am I the Best Candidate For? - June 28, 2021
- Preparing Your House Post-Surgery - May 25, 2021
He did a spectacular job with me best decision everFirst of all, I would say that Dr. Clavijo is an artist. He did a spectacular job with me, I feel like A brand new human being. I had a breast lift surgery in January. I was 200 and I lost 50 pounds so my boobs were down and I’m 22 years old so I was very insecure about it. I was so nervous about this surgery because you are spending money without a guarantee of the results, I was afraid of not loving my results even though I knew the doctor is amazing. Right after I woke up of the anesthesia I heard the doctor’s voice and I was like “Doctor is that you?” He said “yes” I answered: “tell me the truth and be honest, it’s okay if you say 7-8/10 can you tell me how they look?” He answered: 12/10. Today after 4 weeks, HE IS THE BEST, 12/10 was super modest, it’s 100000/10. He gave me my confidence back. My boobs are AMAZING. He is so patient and on top of everything. I can text him and he would answer me immediately. He call me 3 hours after my surgery to check on me. I’m so happy with my decision, his hands are magical. Such a great team Tina is a doll and she’s on top everything. I would go through this process 100 times again if I could. I asked about getting implants and he was like NO you are young and you don’t need it definitely the “money” is not his motor, he’s thinking about you. I’m a new person, I feel 22 again. He gave me back my confidence.
- The Stages of Post Breast Augmentation Recovery - June 28, 2021
- Breast Lift vs. Breast Reduction – What am I the Best Candidate For? - June 28, 2021
- Preparing Your House Post-Surgery - May 25, 2021
Dr. Clavijo-Alvarez is Top Notch!Dr. Clavijo-Alvarez is amazing! From the initial consultation to the procedure to all of the follow up appointments and care! He takes his time, explains everything, and truly cares about his patients. I feel so much more confident and younger thanks to his amazing work!
- The Stages of Post Breast Augmentation Recovery - June 28, 2021
- Breast Lift vs. Breast Reduction – What am I the Best Candidate For? - June 28, 2021
- Preparing Your House Post-Surgery - May 25, 2021
Rhinoplasty and OtoplastyI can’t put into words how grateful I am that I found myself in the hands of Dr. Clavijo-Alvarez. Since I was young I’ve always hated my nose’s side profile, and how much my ears stuck out. My biggest concern with going under the knife was losing my uniqueness, so I struggled for some time deciding whether or not to go through with plastic surgery. Now that I have, I wonder what held me back in the first place. I have never felt so confident in my life. From the beginning I expressed that I didn’t want to look like a different person, but that I wanted the hump in my nose gone and little work to the tip of my nose. I am simply blown away with how natural, and beautiful I look now. He guided me through every step and even took a photo of myself and showed me how my end results should look, before I even picked a date for my procedure! The end result looks even better than the picture I had for reference! As for my ears, I was so worried they would come out looking “glued to my head” or unnatural and they look natural as ever too, far exceeding my expectations. I have never felt comfortable wearing my hair up and now I do all the time, and I can’t explain what that’s done for my confidence, I feel more free than I ever have with the confidence I’ve gained. I’m not sure what kind of magic this doctor has, but my recovery was very easy too, and I had little to no swelling and bruising as well. I cannot recommend Dr. Clavijo-Alvarez enough, he has truly made a huge impact on my life!
- The Stages of Post Breast Augmentation Recovery - June 28, 2021
- Breast Lift vs. Breast Reduction – What am I the Best Candidate For? - June 28, 2021
- Preparing Your House Post-Surgery - May 25, 2021
Breast Reduction/lift-great OutcomeI got a breast reduction and lift with Dr. Clavijo-Alvarez. It has been a little over three weeks and I am in love with my results. He reduced the size of my breasts and also lifted them and I couldn’t be happier. They are proportionate to my body and perky and healing great. He made the process easy and I am so happy I did this procedure!! He is definitely skilled and gifted!!
- The Stages of Post Breast Augmentation Recovery - June 28, 2021
- Breast Lift vs. Breast Reduction – What am I the Best Candidate For? - June 28, 2021
- Preparing Your House Post-Surgery - May 25, 2021
Beautiful results! Dr. Clavijo-Alvarez was excellent!I am a mother of three. After having my three children I ended up with a umbilical hernia, diastasis recti & extra skin. No matter how much I exercised it wasn’t going to help with those issues. I consulted three different plastic surgeons in the Pittsburgh area prior to making my decision on who to select for my hernia repair & tummy tuck. From the moment I met Dr. Clavijo I instantly felt comfortable. He provided a free consultation which not all plastic surgeons do. During the consultation he took his time explaining the surgery & Post surgery process as well as answering all of my questions. I never felt rushed or pressure from him. Once I decided to move forward & scheduled my surgery Dr. Clavijo & Tina were extremely helpful in answering my additional questions and walking me through all of my pre-op, day of surgery & post op procedures. The evening of my surgery, Dr. Clavijo called my husband to see how I was feeling & if I needed anything. He’s extremely caring and I highly recommend him for a tummy tuck. After reading other Real Self reviews, this was the reason I decided to book a consultation it’s him. I am thrilled that I made the decision & am 110% satisfied with my results. He’s truly an artist!
- The Stages of Post Breast Augmentation Recovery - June 28, 2021
- Breast Lift vs. Breast Reduction – What am I the Best Candidate For? - June 28, 2021
- Preparing Your House Post-Surgery - May 25, 2021
I went to Dr. Clavijo for a breast augmentation…I went to Dr. Clavijo for a breast augmentation and I could not be more pleased with my results. They look natural- actually better than natural, but not fake looking. It’s exactly the look I was going for. I had a very smooth and fast recovery process with no complications. Dr. Clavijo and staff were prompt and attentive, and made sure to check in and follow up with me. I always felt like I was in extremely capable hands. I highly recommend!
- The Stages of Post Breast Augmentation Recovery - June 28, 2021
- Breast Lift vs. Breast Reduction – What am I the Best Candidate For? - June 28, 2021
- Preparing Your House Post-Surgery - May 25, 2021
Henry Chadwick“I’m a 27yo who was looking to get a breast augmentation and rhinoplasty. I was initially so nervous! Dr. Alvarez was very thorough during the consultation, reviewed all my questions and concerns, and put my mind at ease. I had both procedures done at once and was expecting a rough recovery.. I followed all pre and post op instructions. Dr. Clavijo-Alvarez even called the night of surgery to check in and answer any questions. I genuinely experienced minimal pain and did not even have to take the pain medication! His recovery procedures were awesome. After my first post op visit one week later I was blown away by how great it looked, barely any swelling, even in the token “ugly” phase of healing it was amazing. I’m so grateful for Dr. Clavijo-Alvarez. I 1000% recommend him to any patient feeling unsure or hearing horror stories from patients who have had painful/unsatisfying experiences at other places. From consult to recovery to final results, can’t say anything but awesome things!”
- The Stages of Post Breast Augmentation Recovery - June 28, 2021
- Breast Lift vs. Breast Reduction – What am I the Best Candidate For? - June 28, 2021
- Preparing Your House Post-Surgery - May 25, 2021
Breast augmentation surgery is a common and effective way to help you enhance the size and shape of your breasts.
When determining which type of breast surgery will help you reach your goals, it is important to understand your options.
In addition to meeting with your doctor and mentally preparing yourself for surgery, you should also make sure..
HD liposuction refers to a series of advanced techniques in liposuction that are used to sculpt the body while.