Breast Augmentation in Boston.

Introduction to Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation is a surgical breast procedure designed to enhance breast volume, shape, or symmetry using implants or, in selected cases, the patient’s own fat or structural fat (a filler that the body transforms to make their own fat). Patients consider breast augmentation for a wide range of reasons, including naturally smaller breast size, volume loss following pregnancy or aging or weight change, congenital asymmetry, tuberous breasts, or reconstruction after breast surgery.

Breast augmentation is not a single standardized operation. Implant type, implant position, incision placement, and the patient’s existing anatomy all influence surgical planning, recovery, and long-term outcomes.

Dr. Sadowski approaches breast augmentation in a thoughtful way, incorporating your goals and lifestyle as well as anatomy and overall health.  Her aim is to create a plan that prioritizes safety and predictable healing while providing the silhouette you desire for the active lifestyle you enjoy. If you are considering breast augmentation in the Chestnut Hill or Boston area, reach out to our team to schedule a consultation to learn more about your options.

Why Choose Dr. Sadowski?

Dr. Sadowski is a double-board certified plastic surgeon and a proud member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.  She has built an award-winning practice on surgeries that transform the body, such as breast augmentation.  Dr. Sadowski has earned recognition as a Boston Magazine Top Doctor for eight consecutive years, from 2019 through 2026. From consultation through surgery and recovery, Dr. Sadowski and her staff will help to make your journey smooth, with tailored results that fit your goals.

What is a Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation is an operation that increases breast volume and reshapes the breast using a breast implant or, in select cases, transfer of fat or structural (precursor) fat. The procedure may be performed to:

• Increase overall breast volume
• Improve upper pole fullness
• Improve breast symmetry
• Restore volume lost due to pregnancy, natural aging, breastfeeding, or weight changes
• Enhance proportion between the chest and the rest of the body
• Improve fit of clothing

Breast augmentation alone does not correct significant breast sagging or reposition a nipple that is low. In patients with breast droop (ptosis), a breast lift may be recommended either alone or in combination with augmentation to achieve balanced positioning and support. Discuss what options for breast augmentation are best for your anatomy and goals during a consultation at our Chestnut Hill office just five miles outside of Boston.

Are there different kinds of Breast Augmentations and what are they?

Dr. Sadowski will work with you to find a breast augmentation that incorporates your anatomy, tissue quality, lifestyle and patient goals. Key variables include implant type, implant placement, and incision location.

Implant type

There are a variety of implant types to consider, these include:

• Silicone Gel
  • Silicone gel implants have a jelly-like silicone gel placed within a silicone shell. These implants are favored for their soft texture, natural feel, and more natural appearance (less rippling).
  • Over time, implant manufacturers have changed the formula of the gel. Generally, formulas that are more cohesive (sometimes called “Gummy Bear”) are less likely to ripple and have more longevity, where less cohesive gels are softer to touch.
  • A broken silicone implant can cause inflammation and thickening of the scar tissue around the implant (capsular contracture). It is currently recommended by the FDA that 5 years after placement and every 2-3 years afterwards, that imaging be performed to confirm that the implant remains intact.  Sadowski offers in-office ultrasound monitoring of silicone implants.
• Saline
  • Saline implants are a popular choice for breast augmentation for many reasons. These implants are affordable and can be adjusted at the time of surgery for volume and symmetry.  When a saline implant breaks, the sterile salt water that fills the implant is absorbed by the body, just like the fluid in an IV.  If the implant breaks, it is obvious by appearance, and there is no need to monitor the implant with special imaging.  Also, it is the only implant type that is FDA approved for women less than 22 years of age.
• Fat Transfer is a surgical procedure that uses your own fat, harvested from the abdomen, flanks, or thighs to enhance the size and shape of the breasts. This procedure can be done with or without implants.  This is an excellent option for patients seeking a modest increase in breast volume, or to improve contour in a defined area.
• Structural Fat Transfer (AlloClae) is a surgical procedure that uses an off-the-shelf product instead of fat from your own body. Structural fat is terminally sterile, and maintains the 3-D structure of natural fat.  As the body heals into the product, it is replaced with the body’s own fat.  It is a good option for patients who have little to no fat to donate as part of a fat transfer procedure.

No augmentation procedure is universally superior.  The ultimate selection depends on your anatomy, preferences, and long-term monitoring considerations.  Dr. Sadowski will help you navigate your options to find the solution that is best for you.

Implant Projection

Implant projection is the same thing as implant profile. Generally, an implant with a higher profile will make the breast appear rounder.  Because the width of your ribcage does not change during breast augmentation, the higher the profile the bigger the implant.

Implant placement

Implants may be placed either under or over the pectoralis major muscle. Both locations have benefits.

Placement under the pectoralis major muscle can either be a total coverage or partial coverage (like dual-plane).  This procedure tends to position the implant higher on the chest wall, and creates more upper pole vs lower pole volume.  The muscle adds a layer of padding over the implant, and this creates a more natural slope of the upper breast.  Motion of the muscle helps to protect the implant from capsular contracture (thick scar tissue).

Placement over the pectoralis major muscle tends to place the implant slightly lower on the chest, and is helpful for patients with a loss of lower breast volume.  Because of the location, movement of the pectoralis muscle is less likely to move the implant, which is called animation deformity.  Implants in this position can either have some or minimal muscle fascia covering the implant.  Adding fascia (subfascial) may help decrease capsular contracture rates.

Incision location

Common incision locations include the breast crease, around the areola, or within the underarm. Each approach has benefits and limitations related to surgical access, scarring, infection risk and implant positioning. Dr. Sadowski will recommend incision options based on your anatomy and implant selection during your consultation in our Boston area office.

Am I a candidate for Breast Augmentation?

Candidates for breast augmentation typically include patients who:

• Have breasts that are fully developed
• Desire increased breast volume or improved symmetry
• Are in good overall health
• Have stable weight
• Do not smoke/vape or are willing to stop nicotine use before and after surgery
• Understand that breast implants are medical devices with a life expectancy
• Understand that all surgeries have risks including scars, possible changes in sensation or tissue quality which may not be reversible.

You may need additional preparation or may not be an appropriate candidate if you have uncontrolled medical conditions, plan significant weight changes, or are pregnant or breastfeeding or were recently breastfeeding (in the last 6 months).

What are the benefits of a Breast Augmentation?

Patients may consider breast augmentation for potential benefits such as:

Learn more about whether breast augmentation is a good fit for your desired goals by connecting with our Chestnut Hill/Boston area team today.