Breast Augmentation

Breast Augmentation procedures are typically painless as general anesthesia is administered before your surgery. Although you won’t feel pain during the procedure, it is normal to experience symptoms like swelling, bruising, and discomfort around the surgical area. Dr. Ingram will provide you with some temporary pain medication and guidance on pain management to keep you comfortable during your recovery.

Breast Augmentation is completed during a single surgical session. You will need to revisit our clinic for several follow-up appointments, during which Dr. Ingram will check in on your progress, remove any drains, and examine the incision sites. He will also advise when it is safe to remove bandages or stop wearing a support bra. 

During your follow-up, Dr. Ingram may also discuss the possibility of replacing the implants after a few years. Breast implants are not considered to be lifetime devices, and Dr. Ingram will give you information that prioritizes your health and well-being.

These appointments are essential to your surgical journey, and Dr. Ingram is here to support and partner with you throughout.

Bandages and the support bra will obscure the initial outcome, but most women will notice and feel the increased size of their breasts. Once the swelling has subsided and the post-surgical garments are removed, you will begin to see more of the surgery’s results. 

The incision lines can take a few months to heal and fade completely. Following our post-op care instructions will ensure a smooth and speedy recovery and give you the results you desire. On average, Breast Augmentation patients can expect to see their final results within three to six months.

After breast augmentation, the appearance of scarring will depend on the incision type and your body’s healing process. Dr. Alton Ingram takes great care to minimize scarring by placing incisions in discreet areas that are easy to conceal. Here’s what you can expect based on the incision type:

1. Inframammary (under the breast):
   This is the most common incision, placed in the natural fold beneath the breast. It’s well-hidden, and scars typically fade to a thin, discreet line over time.
2. Periareolar (around the nipple):
   The incision follows the edge of the areola. While initially more noticeable, the scar usually blends with the natural border of the areola as it heals.
3. Transaxillary (through the armpit):
   This approach avoids scarring on the breast itself by placing the incision in the armpit. It can be more complex, and healing may take slightly longer.

Scars may initially appear red or raised but will gradually fade over the next few months to a year. Following Dr. Ingram’s aftercare instructions—such as avoiding sun exposure and using recommended scar treatments—can help minimize scarring. While some scarring is inevitable, Dr. Ingram’s expertise ensures it remains as discreet as possible.

After breast augmentation, following Dr. Alton Ingram’s specific guidance on when to resume exercise is important.

Rest is crucial in the first two weeks, and you should avoid any physical activity, including walking, that could strain your chest. After two weeks, you can begin light activities like walking or gentle stretching, but avoid exercises that involve the chest, arms, or shoulders.

After four weeks, light cardio and lower-body workouts may be approved, but high-impact or upper-body exercises should still be avoided. After six to eight weeks, you can gradually return to more intense exercise, including strength training, as long as you don’t experience discomfort.

Most patients are cleared for their full routine by 8-12 weeks, but following Dr. Ingram’s advice and listening to your body throughout recovery is essential. Taking it slow ensures proper healing and minimizes complications.

Several surgical options can be combined with Breast augmentation. A breast lift surgery, tummy tuck, or liposuction may be right for you and your overall aesthetic goals. Take the time to discuss your options with Dr. Ingram so he can guide you in the right direction.

You must also recognize that each surgery carries its potential risks, which Dr. Ingram will inform you of. The final cost of your surgery will be adjusted if you do end up combining another procedure.

It’s generally recommended to wait until after breastfeeding before undergoing breast augmentation, as hormonal changes and milk production can affect the size, shape, and elasticity of your breasts, which may impact the surgery’s results. Additionally, breast tissue is more sensitive during breastfeeding, increasing the risk of complications.

For optimal outcomes, most surgeons advise waiting until your breasts have returned to their natural size and shape. If you’re considering breast augmentation while breastfeeding, it’s best to consult with Dr. Ingram to discuss your options and timeline.

Yes, many of our Nashville patients choose to combine a tummy tuck with breast augmentation in a single surgery. Dr. Alton Ingram has extensive experience performing combined procedures, and doing both at once can offer the advantage of fewer surgeries, less downtime, and a more streamlined recovery.

It is important to consider that combining surgeries means a longer procedure time and a more intense recovery period. Dr. Ingram will evaluate your overall health, goals, and the amount of time needed for each procedure to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for you. While the recovery for both surgeries will overlap, you’ll need to carefully follow post-operative instructions for both areas to ensure optimal healing and achieve dramatic, long-lasting results.

It is imperative to weigh the risks associated with any plastic surgery procedure. Dr. Ingram values patient safety and will ensure you have all the information.  

Some of the potential risks associated with breast enhancement can include: 

• Bleeding
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Fluid buildup
• Infection
• Asymmetry
• Dissatisfaction with the results
• Capsular contracture
• Need for revision surgery

Breast augmentation is a personal decision. You can make an informed decision by weighing the risks and benefits.

Capsular contracture is a complication that can occur after breast augmentation. In this condition, the scar tissue (capsule) that naturally forms around the breast implant tightens and hardens. This can cause the breast to feel firm, misshapen, or even painful. In some cases, capsular contracture can lead to noticeable distortion of the breast’s appearance or discomfort. While it’s not fully understood why it happens, factors like infection, bleeding, or the body’s natural response to the implant may contribute.

Dr. Ingram takes special care during surgery to minimize the risk of capsular contracture, and if it does occur, treatment options such as massage, medications, or, in more severe cases, surgery to remove or replace the implant may be necessary.

Finding the best breast augmentation plastic surgeon in Nashville involves a combination of thorough research and personal consultation. Start by looking for board-certified surgeons who specialize in breast surgery and have a strong reputation for delivering high-quality results. Reading patient reviews, viewing before-and-after photos, and seeking recommendations from trusted sources can provide valuable insights into a surgeon’s skill and approach. It’s also essential to schedule consultations with multiple surgeons to discuss your goals, ask about their experience, and determine whether you feel comfortable and confident in their care. A great surgeon will take the time to listen to your desires, answer all your questions, and offer tailored recommendations based on your unique anatomy.

Dr. Alton Ingram at Ingram Cosmetic Surgery in Nashville, TN, is an excellent choice for those seeking top-tier breast augmentation. Known for his meticulous attention to detail and compassionate care, Dr. Ingram has built a reputation for delivering natural-looking, aesthetically pleasing results. He takes a personalized approach to each patient, carefully considering factors such as body proportions and desired outcomes to ensure the best possible results. As a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast surgery, Dr. Ingram has earned the trust of countless patients in the Nashville area. His state-of-the-art facility and commitment to patient safety and satisfaction make him a standout option for anyone considering breast augmentation.