Breast Augmentation
Consultations offered at our two convenient locations in Houston and The Woodlands, TX
Breast augmentation is one of the most popular and frequently performed aesthetic surgeries in the United States. (1) The procedure addresses a variety of personal goals. Patients often choose to correct asymmetrical breasts, increase breast volume, or enhance the shape of their breasts to better suit their overall silhouette.
At myHoustonSurgeons, our experienced surgeons provide a wide array of cosmetic breast surgeries that can achieve both subtle and bold enhancements, ensuring exceptionally high patient satisfaction. Beyond customized plans for breast implants, we also provide breast lift options for individuals looking to add volume while restoring the natural position of the breasts. To schedule a personal consultation at either our Houston or The Woodlands office, call (713) 587-6553 or submit our online contact form.
Contents
Before and After Photos
About Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation enhances the size, shape, and overall appearance of the breasts. Our surgeons tailor these procedures to meet the unique needs and goals of each patient, whether that involves achieving a fuller breast, restoring volume lost after pregnancy or weight loss, or correcting asymmetry. To further personalize the procedure, patients receive guidance on selecting their ideal breast implants. Different implants are available to suit different bodies and aesthetic preferences. (2)
Types of Implants
Implants come in two main categories, each offering distinct characteristics:
- Saline Implants: These are a thin silicone shell with a saline filling, the volume of which can be adjusted after insertion into the chest. They require a smaller incision for insertion and tend to feel firmer than silicone implants.
- Silicone Gel Implants: These are pre-filled with a cohesive silicone gel, which mimics the feel of natural breast tissue, providing a very soft and natural result. Silicone implants require a slightly longer incision for insertion. Studies continue to support the safety and long-term satisfaction of silicone implants, which is why they are often the preferred choice for a natural appearance.
Implant Placement
The location of the implants significantly influences recovery and results. Your surgeon will recommend one of two approaches.
Subglandular (Above the Muscle)
Your surgeon will place the implant directly beneath the breast tissue and fascia, but on top of the pectoral muscle. This method often results in a quicker recovery and can provide more upper pole fullness, but it may offer less coverage for patients with minimal breast tissue.
Submuscular (Below the Muscle)
The implant sits partially beneath the pectoral muscle. This position provides extra cushioning over the implant which can create a more natural appearing upper pole. This position also can reduce the risk of capsular contracture and make it easier for mammograms. Initial recovery is typically more uncomfortable due to muscle manipulation.
Incision Patterns
The incision is the entry point for the implant, and your surgeon strategically places it to minimize visible scarring.
- Inframammary Fold: The most common incision, placed in the crease beneath the breast. It allows for excellent surgical visualization and precision during the creation of implant pockets. This incision also has a lowest overall risk of both short and long term complications.
- Periareolar: Circling the edge of the areola, this incision tends to hide the scar effectively but it is a less suitable option for larger implants.
Benefits
A breast augmentation can be a transformative procedure that offers more than physical enhancements. Key benefits include:
- Increased Fullness: Achieving your ideal breast size can boost confidence, allow clothing to fit better, and boost overall body proportion.
- Correction of Asymmetry: It is common for women to have differences in size or shape between breasts. Augmentation can equalize these discrepancies, creating a more balanced chest profile.
- Restoration of Volume: For many women, life events such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, and weight loss lead to a deflation or flattening of the breasts. Augmentation restores lost volume and youthful fullness.
- Enhanced Shape and Projection: Implants come in a variety of sizes and profiles (low, moderate, high), allowing you to specifically choose the shape and projection of your breasts to your preference.
- Improved Self-Confidence and Body Image: Many patients experience a significant boost in self-esteem and feel more aligned with their bodies after undergoing a breast augmentation.
- Greater Satisfaction with Clothing: Patients often report feeling more confident in swimwear, fitted tops, and a broader selection of clothing styles than they did before their augmentation.
Candidates
Potential candidates for breast augmentation are in good overall health, maintain a stable weight, and are non-smokers (or prepared to quit for an extended period). All individuals must possess realistic expectations regarding the outcome of the surgery and understand the recovery process.
You may be a strong candidate for breast augmentation if you:
- Are dissatisfied with the natural size or shape of your breasts.
- Have noticed significant volume loss, particularly in the upper pole, due to aging, significant weight loss, or having children (a scenario where an augmentation often pairs with a lift).
- Have distinct breast asymmetry you wish to correct.
- Are prepared to adhere strictly to pre- and post-operative instructions.
Personal Consultation
The consultation is a collaborative planning session with your surgeon. During this one-on-one meeting, you will discuss your desired outcome, review your medical history, and determine the optimal surgical approach. Your surgeon will measure your current breast tissue, chest width, and the quality of your skin to recommend the best incision and implant placement. With their guidance, you will be able to select your ideal implants after reviewing filling (saline or silicone), shape (round or anatomical), and placement (above or below the muscle). With all of this information, your surgeon will create your personalized treatment plan.
If you are ready to start exploring your breast augmentation options, call myHoustonSurgeons at (713) 587-6553 or contact us online to schedule a personal consultation.
Preparation
Proper preparation is essential to ensure a safe, successful procedure and smooth recovery. Your surgeon will provide you with detailed preparation instructions, as well as a full set of written aftercare instructions to help guide your recovery.
Some general preparation directions include:
- Medical Clearance: Obtain necessary blood work and a pre-operative physical from your primary care physician to ensure you are healthy enough for surgery. You may require a baseline mammogram.
- Medication Review: Stop taking any medications or supplements that thin the blood, usually two weeks before surgery.
- Smoking Cessation: If you smoke, you must stop all nicotine use for at least four weeks before and four weeks after surgery, as smoking severely impedes healing and increases complication risks.
- Home Care Setup: Arrange for a trusted friend or family member to drive you home after the procedure, stay with you for at least the first 24-48 hours, and assist with household tasks, childcare, and medication management.
- Post-Op Supplies: Fill prescriptions, gather comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, and prepare a recovery space with entertainment and necessities within easy reach.
Procedure
Breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure that occurs at one of our accredited surgical facilities. First, a team member will place you under general anesthesia to ensure your comfort during the procedure, which typically lasts between one and two hours. Your surgeon will make the incision at the predetermined location (inframammary, etc.), then meticulously create a pocket in the chest to accommodate the implant, either above or below the pectoral muscle. This step requires great precision to ensure that the implants sit securely and symmetrically. The chosen implants are then carefully inserted through the incision and positioned in the pocket. In many cases, our surgeons will place implants with a specialized funnel. This significantly reduces incision size and contamination risk. Once your surgeon confirms the optimal placement and symmetry, they will close the incisions with meticulous sutures, which they often layer beneath the skin to minimize scarring.
Recovery
The recovery varies among patients and depends on the specific details of the procedure. In general, patients can expect some soreness, tightness, and swelling in the chest during the initial recovery. You can manage any pain with prescribed medication and ample rest. You must limit your movement; generally, our surgeons advise that you avoid lifting your arms above shoulder level and carrying anything heavier than a gallon of milk. You must wear a specialized surgical bra at all times (except while showering) to minimize swelling and support the breasts. Everyone’s recovery is different, but most patients can return to non-strenuous work within one to three weeks. You must avoid strenuous activities until your surgeon clears you to resume them. Attend all follow-up appointments so your surgeon can track your healing progress.
Results
While initial results are visible immediately, the final outcome of breast augmentation takes time to fully develop. The breasts may look high and feel firm right after surgery due to swelling. Over the next three to six months, the implants will settle into their natural position, and the soft tissues will adjust. The objective is to achieve a pleasing result that is proportional to your body and meets your personal aesthetic goals, whether that means a subtle enhancement or a bold increase in size.
Corresponding Procedures
While breast augmentation provides significant results as a singular procedure, many patients undergo corresponding procedures to achieve an even more comprehensive transformation with reduced recovery time.
Some effective combination options include:
- Breast Lift: If a patient has significant skin laxity, drooping nipples, or sagging (ptosis) along with volume loss, augmentation can include a breast lift. This procedure removes excess skin and repositions the nipple and areola for a more youthful contour and elevated presentation.
- Liposuction: An effective way to contour the body, liposuction can contribute to a more appealing silhouette by addressing excess fat deposits around the flanks, stomach, thighs, buttocks, and arms. Alongside breast augmentation, this can be an optimal way to further highlight enhanced breasts.
- Tummy Tuck: This procedure addresses excess skin, soft tissue, and fat on the abdomen, often including repair of separated abdominal muscles and belly button rejuvenation. Patients often combine this procedure with breast augmentation and others in a customizable mommy makeover treatment.
Cost of Breast Augmentation in Houston
The cost of a breast augmentation varies depending on a few different factors, including type of implants, surgical technique, and whether or not you choose to include any corresponding procedures. During your personal consultation, your surgeon will present you with a comprehensive price list that reflects your unique treatment plan. To start planning your breast augmentation, call (713) 587-6553 or submit our online contact form.
FAQ
How long do breast implants last?
While breast implants are designed to be durable, they are not considered lifetime devices. The average lifespan of a breast implant is between 10 to 20 years, though many patients keep them longer. The FDA recommends silicone implants be imaged starting 5 to 6 years after placement with an ultrasound or an MRI.
Will I still be able to breastfeed with implants?
In most cases, breast augmentation does not negatively impact a woman’s ability to breastfeed when performed through an incision underneath the breast. The procedure typically does not disrupt the milk ducts or mammary glands. However, we recommend that you discuss any future breastfeeding or pregnancy plans during your consultation.
Which is better: silicone or saline implants?
The choice between saline and silicone is highly personal and should be discussed thoroughly with your surgeon. Patients seeking a soft, natural feel that closely mimics natural breast tissue usually prefer silicone implants. Saline implants offer a smaller insertion incision and volume adjustability, but they may feel less natural and have a higher chance of rippling visibility in leaner patients.
References
- Kaoutzanis C, Winocour J, Unger J, Gabriel A, Maxwell GP. The Evolution of Breast Implants. Semin Plast Surg. 2019 Nov;33(4):217-223. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6797490/
- Patel BC, Szymanski KD, Schaffner AD. Breast Implants. [Updated 2025 Nov 7]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2026 Jan-. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441998/