Breast augmentation can offer you the opportunity to enhance your breast size and shape. Each procedure is customized to help you achieve your desired results using the latest techniques and implants available.
At the Chicago practice of Dr. Karol A. Gutowski, we provide exceptional care and advanced aesthetic treatments. Dr. Gutowski is a board-certified plastic surgeon, nationally recognized for his expertise in cosmetic surgery and nonsurgical rejuvenation. We help each patient achieve their goals through personalized consultations and a comprehensive range of breast augmentation options.
What Is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that augments your breasts using implants or fat transfer. This procedure offers the flexibility to choose the look you want, whether it’s a subtle enhancement or a more noticeable change. With various implant types and placement techniques available, you can work with your surgeon to select the best option for your body and goals.
What Can Breast Augmentation Address?
- Increasing Volume After Pregnancy: Pregnancy leads to changes in breast size which can result in a deflated look. Breast augmentation can restore and even enhance the volume.
- Correcting Congenital Concerns: Some individuals may have congenital breast asymmetry or underdeveloped breasts that affect their overall proportions. Breast augmentation offers a solution to correct these concerns.
- Improving Symmetry: Natural asymmetry in breast size and shape is common, but it can sometimes be noticeable and bothersome. Breast augmentation can address these asymmetries and provide a more symmetrical and balanced silhouette.
- Improving Upper Breast Fullness: Over time, the upper portion of the breasts can lose fullness due to aging or weight changes. Breast augmentation can improve upper breast fullness for a youthful contour.
An Overview of Breast Augmentation
When a woman is looking to boost her breast size, as well as her confidence, our breast augmentation Chicago surgery can be the best solution. Silicone or saline implants are added into the natural breasts to increase the volume as well as improve the shape. Our surgeons are renowned for great results with more than 20 years of experience. During the consultation, our surgeons take the time to educate the patient on a variety of implant options and techniques, as well as devise a specific treatment plan to help a woman achieve her desired look.
For women who want a fuller breast size, but desire a natural option, an autologous fat transfer procedure can be performed to achieve this. Natural fat graft breast augmentation involves taking fat from one area of the body, such as the tummy, buttock or hips, and safely purifies and then injects it into the breast until the desired size has been achieved. Today’s fat transfer methods are safe and effective and have grown in popularity due to advanced medical breakthroughs in both liposuction and fat grafting.
THE KELLER FUNNEL
Keller Funnel Certified
Dr. Karol Gutowski is proudly certified for the use of the Keller Funnel.
The Keller funnel empowers surgeons to deliver implants easily and safely, with a “No-Touch” technique. Dr. Gutowski’s certification signifies he has been trained in use of this device in order to better deliver a more natural looking result.
BREAST AUGMENTATION REVIEWS
Types of Breast Augmentation Surgery
Saline vs Silicone vs Fat Transfer
Saline Breast Implants
Saline implants have always remained a positive choice for patients when deciding what type of implant to use for breast augmentation. Because these implants are filled with a sterile saltwater solution, any potential leakage does not pose a threat as the solution is safely absorbed by the body. Saline implants also cost less than the silicone type. One of the disadvantages of saline implants is that in some cases, rippling can appear. This is especially something to consider for women who are thin and have low breast tissue. Those who opt for this type of implant must be at least 18 years old.
Silicone Breast Implants
Silicone breast implants are very popular today and are highly recommended by surgeons for patients who are thin and desire a natural look. Since the FDA validated their safety and efficacy, safety concerns surrounding these implants are today almost no different than that of saline. The silicone shell is prefilled with silicone gel and comes in different sizes, shapes and textures. Unlike saline implants in which leakage is absorbed by the body and implant volume appears visibly flat, it is difficult to tell when a silicone implant ruptures. An MRI is required to detect any rupture. Patients considering silicone implants must be at least 22 years old.
Fat Transfer
For patients who desire fuller breasts but do not want an artificial implant to achieve this look, there is also an option known as a fat transfer. In this procedure, the doctor will harvest fat from donor sites of the patient, such as the flanks, abdomen and thighs via liposuction. The fat collected will undergo a process of refinement and purification, and then will be gradually reinjected into the breasts with smaller syringes so the shape is evenly distributed.
The advantages of fat transfer for breast augmentation Chicago include:
- The use of one’s own body tissue does not require replacement in the future, unlike implants which may break after many years and need to be replaced.
- It allows the surgeon to place the fat in specific areas and fill out only the upper part of the breast if needed. Breast implants do not allow for selective augmentation.
- Injected fat is more likely to feel and look more natural than a breast implant.
- Since man-made material is not used, there is no risk of capsular contracture (an internal scarring problem) that may happen with breast implants.
The disadvantages of fat transfer for breast augmentation include:
- Fat transfer may not provide enough volume to result in a significant breast enlargement. Most women who have breast implants choose sizes that are greater than 300 cc (about 10 ounces of volume), and more likely to be greater than 350 cc. Fat injections have been resulting in only 250 cc to 300 cc improvements at most.
- Fat transfer requires surgery on another body part to remove the fat. Thin patients may not have enough fat to result in a significant increase in breast size.
- Not all of the transferred fat may survive and the breast may become smaller over time. Repeat procedures may be needed.
- The transferred fat may increase or decrease in size if the patient gains or loses weight.
- Although there is variability, fat transfer tends to be a longer procedure and may cost more compared to the use of breast implants.
Product Information
Manufacturers
There are several manufacturers approved by the FDA.
- Natrelle by Allergen – silicone and saline-based implants
- Mentor – silicone and saline-based implants
- Sientra – silicone-based implants
Profile
Breast implants come in a variety of different profiles. The selection is based on how enhanced the breasts’ projection would be, as well as how wide the implant will be on the chest wall in relation to the base width. Since the silicone implants are already pre-filled, the standard profiles come in low, moderate, high and extra high. Saline implants, however, come in variants that are either prefilled; or, the silicone shell is inserted then filled with saline solution up to the patient’s preferred profile. Choosing the right profile can sometimes be a difficult decision and it is up to a skilled surgeon to help guide the patient accordingly. High profile breast implants will have greater projection, but less width on each side, whereas a moderate profile, for example, will not have as much projection, but will be broader.
Shape
The shape of a breast implant can either be round or teardrop. Each shape serves a different aesthetic function as it pertains to the patient’s goals. Dr. Gutowski will discuss the implant shape that is ideal for your body type and aesthetic goals with you during your consultation.
Texture
Implants are made with either a smooth or a textured surface. In general, smooth implants cost less and are more common. The textured implants were initially conceived out of the idea that it reduces the chances of capsular contracture (the constriction of scar tissue around the implant).
Implant Placement
The two most common placements are on top of the chest muscle or under it. When the implant is placed under the muscle, a pocket is created within the pectoralis major muscle. A pocket is also created if it is placed in front of the muscle, but many surgeons do prefer the submuscular approach (behind the muscle). This helps to keep the implant in place for a longer period of time and takes into consideration factors such as implant size, weight, gravity, and time.
Incision Type
There are several standard incision approaches for breast implants. The most common is known as an inframammary incision, which is an incision near the breast fold. Second, is an incision made under the areola, which is known as a periareolar incision. A third option is to place the incision within the armpit, known as a transaxillary approach. There is also an incision approach that takes place around the belly button, but this is the least recommended way. It is up to the patient’s desires and surgeon recommendation as to what approach is best to take. Scarring is also discussed at this time with each method.
PLAN YOUR PROCEDUREWhat to Expect During and After Breast Augmentation Surgery
Breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure that may last from an hour to several hours. It is performed using general anesthesia in an accredited surgical facility. All activities must be limited within 48 hours after surgery. There will be bruising and swelling, and a compression support bra will also be worn to help in healing. It is normal to feel tightness around the chest area as the skin adjusts to the breast’s new shape. Most patients can resume normal activities within 7 days, but exercise should be avoided for 4-6 weeks. It takes approximately 6 months for the breasts to look, feel and function normally in regards to softness, sensation and final placement.
Why Choose Us?
Expertise and Experience
Dr. Karol A. Gutowski is a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast augmentation surgery. His expertise is recognized nationally, with numerous awards and published works in leading medical journals. Patients trust Dr. Gutowski for his ability to deliver natural and aesthetically pleasing results, backed by years of specialized training and practice.
Innovative Techniques
We use advanced techniques to enhance patient outcomes and minimize recovery time. Our rapid recovery breast augmentation focuses on reducing post-operative discomfort and expediting the healing process. With our methods, patients are able to return to daily activities more quickly while still achieving beautiful, long-lasting results.
Personalized Care
Each breast augmentation recovery is different which is why we adjust our care to fit the patient. You will receive exceptional, compassionate care from your first consultation to your last follow-up visit. We support you through every stage of your recovery to make sure you get the most out of your results.
Facility Stocked With the Latest Equipment
Our state-of-the-art facility is equipped with the latest technology to provide the highest standards of safety and efficacy. We use tools like the Keller Funnel, which allows for a no-touch technique during implant insertion, reducing the risk of infection and improving outcomes.
Over 1000 Procedures Successfully Performed
When looking for a surgeon, you should choose one with an extensive track record in the type of surgery you are seeking. Dr. Gutowski has performed over 1,000 successful breast augmentation procedures. Our commitment to achieving outstanding results is evident in the satisfaction of our many patients throughout the greater Chicago area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Augmentation
How Long Will My Breast Augmentation Results Last?
Implants may last up to 15 years. As long as the implant shows no signs of damage or visible defects, such as breast rippling or a deformity, replacing them is not necessary. What’s necessary, however, is a periodic check of the implants to make sure that they are still intact.
What Can I Expect From My Breast Augmentation Recovery?
With our rapid recovery breast augmentation, you can expect a shorter and more comfortable healing period. This technique focuses on minimizing tissue damage and inflammation, allowing you to resume normal activities sooner.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation?
A good candidate for breast augmentation is someone in good overall health who wishes to enhance the size or shape of their breasts. Ideal candidates have realistic expectations and understand the benefits and limitations of the surgery. During your consultation, we will assess your individual situation to determine if this procedure is right for you.
Why Choose an Accredited Surgical Facility for Breast Augmentation?
Choosing an accredited facility for breast augmentation surgery means that you receive care that meets the highest standards of safety and quality. Accredited facilities adhere to strict guidelines and protocols, providing a safe environment for your procedure. This commitment to excellence helps to minimize risks and enhance surgical outcomes.
Can Breast Implants Be Replaced?
Yes, breast implants can be replaced if needed due to age, changes in personal preference, or other factors. Replacement surgery, also known as revision surgery, allows for adjustments to size, type, or position of the implants. It’s important to discuss your goals and concerns with your surgeon.
Can Breast Augmentation Be Combined With Other Surgeries?
Breast augmentation can be combined with other procedures, such as a tummy tuck or liposuction, to achieve more comprehensive body contouring results. A common type of combination surgery is the mommy makeover which combines breast augmentation with a customized series of procedures such as abdominoplasty, breast lift, liposuction, and more. Combining surgeries can also streamline breast augmentation recovery, allowing you to address multiple concerns in a single recovery period.
Should I Get Breast Implants Over or Under the Muscle?
The decision to place breast implants over or under the muscle depends on your body type, implant type, and desired results. Placing implants under the muscle can provide a more natural look but may require you to wait longer before resuming exercises. Implants over the muscle can lead to a shorter recovery and can sometimes accommodate a larger implant.
Can Breast Augmentation Correct Sagging Breasts?
Breast augmentation is a cosmetic procedure designed to enlarge breasts while a breast lift is designed to tighten the loose skin of a droopy breast. Both resolve different breast issues. There are cases that the procedures are simultaneously done when it is agreed that a breast lift with augmentation is necessary.
Should I Choose Fat Transfer or Implants?
This depends on the patient’s breast make up. Those who opt for implants may choose between saline or silicone as each has its own advantages. Generally, patients who have low breast tissue will benefit from silicone implants; otherwise, saline implants are recommended. For fat transfer, the advantage is that it poses less risk since there is no introduction of foreign material in the body. However, the results do not last long compared to artificial implants as fat can be reabsorbed by the body.
Are There Risks With Silicone?
Negative notions about silicone started back in the early 90s when there were cases of leakage and complications. With today’s advancements in engineering, the silicone-based shells are made durable and safe, and have been proven so by the FDA. Today, in fact, silicone is more preferred than saline by many patients since they feel more natural. The rates of reported complications have significantly decreased in the last decade.
Can Silicone Breast Implants Leak?
Today’s silicone implants are strong, durable and safe. Technical advancements have come so far that even if a silicone implant does rupture, the shell of the implant will keep the silicone gel encased and protected from entering the body. In a rare case that a silicone implant does rupture, an MRI will be needed to detect the rupture. This is the main reason why MRI checks are recommended 3 years after surgery and every 2 years succeeding the first MRI.
Schedule Your Breast Augmentation Consultation in Chicago, IL
Breast augmentation can enhance your appearance by improving the size, shape, and symmetry of your breasts. At the office of Karol A. Gutowski MD, we provide expert surgical care using the latest techniques and technology to achieve natural-looking results. Our experience and innovative approach help you achieve the best possible outcome. To learn more about how we can help you reach your aesthetic goals, please call (847) 906-1527 or fill out our online form.
