Introduction to Breast Augmentation
At our world-class facility in Beverly Hills, we truly believe that our natural bodies are beautiful, but it’s also common and perfectly okay that some areas may cause a certain level of dissatisfaction. A woman’s breasts are an area of her body that can cause self-image and confidence issues. Dr. Nicholas Nikolov offers his patients the opportunity to enhance their breast size & shape with breast augmentation procedures (commonly referred to as breast implants).
At the Nikolov Center for Plastic Surgery, Dr. Nikolov strives to provide his patients with the best breast augmentation results in Beverly Hills & Los Angeles, while always practicing patient safety. Below, we’ve included our guide to the surgery, but if you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, please contact us today.
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation (breast enlargement), professionally known as augmentation mammoplasty, is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures that uses breast implants to enhance the size and shape of a woman’s breasts for a number of reasons. During your consultation, Dr. Nikolov will go over the different types of implants (saline and silicone), implant sizes, and implant shapes.
Other forms of breast augmentation consist of transferring fat to the breasts from other areas of your body, using a popular method called fat grafting. Fat grafting utilizes liposuction to gain fat from unwanted areas of the body and transfers it to the breasts. For more information on fat transfer breast augmentation, please read our full page on Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation.
Breast Augmentation Basics
- Surgery Time: Breast augmentation in Beverly Hills takes approximately 2-3 hours depending on the specifics of the surgery.
- Recovery Time: A breast augmentation in Los Angeles is an outpatient procedure, meaning patients will recover at home. Patients can expect their final results in around 6 weeks following surgery, after swelling goes down.
- Results: Results from breast enhancement typically last 10-20 years. Dr. Nikolov will let you know when you’re ready for a breast implant revision.
- Cost: According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost for breast augmentation is between $5,000 – $10,000. The cost can be impacted by the surgeon’s fees, anesthesia, facility fees, and medical tests.
The Breast Augmentation Expertise of Dr. Nikolov
- Dr. Nikolov is a board-certified plastic surgeon: This means he’s expertly trained in breast augmentation surgery and has met a certain criteria only awarded to surgeons able to claim board-certified status.
- Dr. Nikolov is a member of ASPS & ASAPS: The American Society of Plastic Surgeons and The Aesthetic Society are the two most prestigious societies in plastic surgery. Only plastic surgeons who meet a certain criteria are able to join these societies.
- Dr. Nikolov is a Beverly HIlls Top Doc: Top Doc providers have been certified by publications to validate they are real providers.
- Dr. Nikolov has over 20 years of experience: Having created the practice over 20 years ago, Dr. Nikolov has over two decades of experience providing breast augmentation in Beverly Hills, making him one of the most experienced surgeons in Los Angeles.
- Dr. Nikolov is internationally recognized: Over the years, Dr. Nikolov has had practices in multiple countries around the world, making him one of the most sought after surgeons for breast augmentation world-wide.
- Media Appearances: Dr. Nikolov has been featured on almost every national media outlet for his work in aesthetics, including CNN, MSN, E, and more.
5 Steps To Choosing Your Breast Implants
As you plan for your surgery and select a breast implant size, consider your age, lifestyle, career, physique, and body proportions in order to develop realistic expectations.
Dr. Nikolov can significantly enhance your breasts using the latest and most advanced saline and silicone implant devices. Goals for your breast augmentation surgery typically include the enlargement of breast size and the restoration of cleavage volume. This creates a natural appearance while maintaining a balanced body proportion to improve your self-confidence and body image. Dr. Nikolov has decades of experience and training that provides him with the skill and expertise to provide excellent breast augmentation results.
We’ve broken the process of deciding the best breast implants for you into 5 easy steps!
Step 1 – Saline or Silicone Breast Implants
The first step is to discuss the different implant options and there are typically two breast implant types available – saline implants and silicone implants.
Saline breast implants: An empty silicone outer shell is inserted into the breast pocket via a very small incision and filled with sterile saline solution once inside. These tend to be less expensive but can also feel less natural, depending on your breast tissue. This type of implant is usually not recommended for thin individuals because of its potential rippling effect through thin skin.
Silicone breast implants: The other option is cohesive silicone gel implants which come pre-filled with silicone gel to provide a natural look and feel. They are available at a slightly higher price point and are ideal to ensure natural movement and minimize rippling. However, silicone gel implants do require a slightly larger incision for insertion. A slight offshoot of silicone, gummy bear implants consist of a cohesive gel filling that is designed to last anywhere from 10 to 15 years.
The final choice of implant type will be selected based on your personal preferences and consultation with Dr. Nikolov.
Step 2 – Breast Implant Sizes
After deciding the types of implants to use, the next step is to determine the size of your implants. Dr. Nikolov will offer his professional recommendations based on your body proportions, however, he also understands that patients have their own opinions on what size they think would be best. Most of our patients find this to be the most fun part of the experience. Please keep in mind that breast implant sizes and bra cup sizes are not always the same, so rather than being focused on a number, you should be more concerned about how it will look on your frame.
Step 3 – Breast Implant Shape
Implant shape is not often considered when discussing breast enhancement, but is a very important factor to think about. There are several different options for choosing implant sizes that alter the resting position and overall appearance. Round implants are usually the most popular, but teardrop-shaped implants are becoming more used due to their more natural feel. During the consultation, Dr. Nikolov will be able to go over the differences and make his recommendation based on your personal preferences.
Step 4 – Implant Placement
Next, you and Dr. Nikolov will decide the placement and whether your implants should go above or beneath the muscle, which is largely determined by the amount of breast tissue you have. For those who lack enough breast tissue, Dr. Nikolov will place the implants below the muscle for a more natural look, but if there is a sufficient amount of tissue, placing them on top of the chest can provide more definitive cleavage.
Step 5 – Incision Placement
Finally, Dr. Nikolov will determine the most discreet locations to place the incisions, which is influenced by your implant placement and shape. The primary types of incisions are inframammary or periareolar, and transaxillary or umbilical which are not as frequently used.
Inframammary placement is done below the breast crease, while periareolar goes around the nipple. Transaxillary requires making an incision through the armpit and umbilical which goes through the belly button.
It’s important to keep in mind that no matter which incision technique is used, there will be some scarring, however, Dr. Nikolov has the skillset and provides sufficient post-treatment instructions to leave behind more discreet scars. Once you are healed, you will be able to discuss the different scar treatment options that can minimize their appearance even more so.
What are the Benefits of Breast Augmentation?
As an innovator & educator in the field of plastic surgery, Dr. Nikolov has helped thousands of women achieve their ideal breasts. Below, we’ve included some of the advantages of a Los Angeles or Beverly Hills Breast Augmentation by Dr. Nikolov.
- Breast implants will add the volume and curves you may desire
- Clothes can fit better, helping you feel more attractive
- The surgery can improve breast symmetry
- Breast augmentation provides long-lasting results
- Patients will be able to achieve more attractive cleavage
- The surgery can provide more proportion to your body type
- The surgery will give you a more youthful and natural appearance
Who are the Best Candidates for Breast Augmentation?
A good candidate for breast augmentation surgery in Beverly Hills or Los Angeles is any adult woman who is looking to increase the size or shape of their breasts. If you’re physically healthy and realistic in your expectations, you may be a good candidate. Other characteristics of a good breast augmentation candidate are any woman who:
- Feels her breast size is too small
- Looking to enhance their body contour
- Has breast asymmetry
- Needs to balance a difference in breast size
- Wants to correct a reduction in breast volume after pregnancy or weight loss
- Has undergone breast cancer surgery or a preventative mastectomy
What to Expect on the Day of Breast Augmentation
Dr. Nikolov will provide the surgery at his surgery center in Beverly Hills. Upon your arrival, our nurses will make sure you feel fully comfortable. Breast augmentation can be performed with general anesthesia, so you’ll sleep through the entire operation.
The implants will likely be placed behind the chest muscle, as Dr. Nikolv believes that placement may reduce the potential for capsular contracture. This placement may also interfere less with breast examination by mammogram than if the implant is placed directly behind the breast tissue.
Stitches are used to close the breast augmentation incisions, which may also be taped for greater support. A gauze bandage may be applied over your breasts to help with healing.
You can expect the entire surgery to take approximately one to two hours to complete.
What’s the First Step?
If you’re interested in getting a breast augmentation in Beverly Hills or Los Angeles, the first step is to schedule a consultation. In your initial appointment, Dr. Nikolov will evaluate your health and explain which surgical techniques are most appropriate for you, based on the condition of your breasts and skin tone. If your breasts are sagging, Dr. Nikolov may also recommend a breast lift.
Be sure to discuss your expectations with Dr. Nikolov. He will be equally direct, describing your alternatives, the risks, and the limitations of each. You may want to ask Dr. Nikolov for a copy of the manufacturer’s insert that comes with the implant he will use — just so you remain fully informed. Be sure to tell Dr. Nikolov if you smoke and if you’re taking any medications, vitamins, or other drugs.
Dr. Nikolov or his patient coordinator will explain the type of anesthesia to be used, the facility where the surgery will be performed, and the costs involved. Because most insurance companies do not consider breast augmentation to be medically necessary, carriers generally do not cover the cost of this procedure.
Dr. Nikolov will give you instructions to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding certain vitamins and medications. While making preparations, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery and to help you out for a few days, if needed.
How do I prepare for my Breast Augmentation procedure?
After your breast augmentation with Dr. Nikolov has been scheduled, you will need to begin preparing for the day of surgery. You will be strongly encouraged to carefully read all of the provided pre-operative and post-operative instructions. Below are some tips to keep in mind to have a smoother surgical procedure and stressless recovery:
Become well-informed
Knowledge is power. No matter what your questions or concerns are, please do not hesitate to contact The Nikolov Center for Plastic Surgery if you would like to learn more about something.
Set-up Transportation
You will need a ride home after your surgical procedure. Arranging transportation with a family member or friend to and from the surgical center will not only allow you to return safely home so you can rest comfortably, but it also allows you to ease into your recovery without worry.
Schedule time-off
Sufficient recovery time is necessary after surgery for your Beverly Hills breast implants in order to heal properly. This means taking the recommended amount of time off from work or school so that you will have adequate rest time.
Keep an up-to-date calendar
After surgery, you will be required to attend follow-up appointments so that Dr. Nikolov and his team can monitor your recovery. While we try to work with your schedule, it’s important to be available for these checkups because they are vital to a successful recovery.
Be aware people will notice a difference
This procedure is a deeply personal one and no one should influence your personal opinion and feelings about undergoing surgery. That being said, you can be guaranteed that SOMEONE will notice. While you don’t have to share anything you don’t want to, it does help to have an idea of how to explain your recent physical changes.
Have prescriptions filled and picked up
We strongly recommend picking up your pain medications before surgery. Not only will it be one less thing on your plate, but you will be able to immediately use them after your procedure.
Stock up
The last thing you want during recovery is to feel bored or hungry, so make sure you get that book you’ve been wanting to read and any food you may crave as you heal. Preparing for your recovery while you’re in full health will make your post-surgical experience that much easier. Trust us, Future-You will be incredibly grateful.
Keep any important phone numbers together
In the case of an emergency, or if you have any questions or concerns that pop up having important phone numbers and insurance cards in an accessible location can be a lifesaver, both figuratively and literally. You will also want to share this location with anyone assisting you during recovery.
Arrange home assistance
Having a responsible adult available to at least stop by daily and assist with minor chores and help prepare meals. It is common for patients to be sore and tired the first couple of days post-surgery, so having someone there to help you will make a world of difference during your recovery.
Breathe and relax
Once you’ve taken care of all the preparations, your procedure should become a life-changing one. With Dr. Nikolov and his team, you are in qualified and experienced hands and he will compassionately walk with you throughout your surgical journey.
Breast Augmentation Recovery
You’re likely to feel tired and sore for a few days following your surgery, but you’ll be up and around in 24 to 48 hours. Most of your discomfort can be controlled by medication prescribed by Dr. Nikolov. Breast augmentation recovery can take time. Nevertheless, you should be able to return to work within a few days, depending on the level of activity required for your job.
Within several days, the gauze dressings, if you have them, will be removed, and you may be given a surgical bra, which should be worn as directed by your surgeon. You may also experience a slight burning sensation in your nipples for about two weeks, but this will subside as the bruising fades. Your stitches will come out in a week to 10 days, but the swelling in your breasts may take three to five weeks to disappear.
Follow Dr. Nikolov’s advice on when to begin exercises and normal activities. Your breasts will probably be sensitive to direct stimulation for two to three weeks. After that, breast contact is fine once your breasts are no longer sore, usually three to four weeks after surgery.
Your scars will be firm and pink for at least six weeks. In some cases, they may remain the same size for several months, or even appear to widen. After a few months, your scars will begin to fade.
Routine mammograms should be continued after breast augmentation for women who are in the appropriate age group, although the mammographic technician should use a special technique to ensure that you get a reliable reading. Routine mammograms for those in the appropriate age groups at prescribed intervals will help assure that any complications if they occur, can be detected early and treated.
Personal Decision – Your decision to have breast augmentation is a highly personal one that not everyone will understand. The important thing is how you feel about it. If we’ve helped you meet your aesthetic goals, then your surgery is a success!
Scars From Breast Augmentation
Your scars will be firm and pink for at least six weeks. In some cases, they may remain the same size for several months, or even appear to widen. After a few months, your scars will begin to fade and you will be able to enjoy natural-looking results.
How Much Does Breast Augmentation Cost in Beverly Hills & Los Angeles?
The cost of Breast Augmentation in Beverly Hills & Los Angeles is based on multiple factors, such as cup size and which type of implant you are getting. After discussing your goals with Dr. Nikolov during your consultation, he will create the outline for your surgery and our Patient Coordinator will use that information to provide you with a price breakdown.
Why Choose Dr. Nikolov?
Dr. Nicholas Nikolov is a board-certified plastic surgeon and is trusted worldwide with practices in both Beverly Hills, CA & Madrid, Spain. Dr. Nikolov’s goal is to help all those under his care achieve better harmony, feel youthful, and gain more confidence in their appearance while retaining a natural look. Whether he’s performing cosmetic surgery or an in-office aesthetic procedure, he uses his skills to help every patient enhance their natural beauty.
Schedule Your Consultation
Plastic cosmetic surgery is a very personal and important decision that you can only make. If you feel like Breast Augmentation in Beverly Hills is the right procedure for you, we would love to be a part of your journey. Please call us at (310) 247-1932 or you can request a consultation through our website today!
