What Is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a very popular cosmetic surgical procedure performed to enhance the appearance of the breasts. Most commonly, breast augmentation is performed with the use of customized breast implants.

However, in some cases, breast augmentation can be done using fat transfer, in which excess fat is removed from another body area and injected into the breasts. Typically, breast augmentation aims to increase the size of the breasts, but it can also be performed to give the breasts a rounder, more youthful shape and improve their symmetry.

Your Breast Augmentation Consultation

If you’re interested in undergoing breast augmentation, the first step will be to sit down for a consultation with Dr. Sato. During this meeting, Dr. Sato will ask you about your specific goals for the procedure and work with you to devise a personalized treatment plan. Most of the consultations will discuss the specifics of your customized breast implants.

For example, you can decide on the implants' ideal size, shape, and placement to achieve your desired results. You’ll also be able to choose from the different types of breast implants that we offer at Advanced Surgical Technology.

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Breast Implant Options


Advanced Surgical Technology offers both Natrelle implants manufactured by Allergan and Mentor breast implants produced by Johnson and Johnson. Natrelle implants offer the patient more choices regarding the shape of the implant, particularly regarding the projection (how far from the chest the implant extends). Mentor implants, on the other hand, offer more consistent size intervals to choose from as well as more implant size options within each specific implant shape. By offering both Natrelle and Mentor breast implants, we ensure that every patient can fully customize their implants to achieve the precise size and shape they desire.

Silicone vs. Saline Implants


Another choice you’ll need to make when preparing for your breast augmentation is whether you prefer silicone or saline breast implants. Each of these popular implant choices offers unique advantages and disadvantages that you’ll want to consider:

Silicone Implants - Silicone breast implants, the traditional implant option, consist of firm silicone shells filled with soft silicone gel. Silicone implants are firmer than saline implants, and many consider them to look and feel more natural. However, in the rare occurrence of a silicone breast implant rupturing, it will present more risk than a saline implant. You must be at least 22 years old to receive silicone breast implants.


Saline Implants - Like silicone implants, saline implants feature a firm silicone shell, but instead of being filled with silicone gel, they’re filled with sterile salt water (saline). Saline implants may not look or feel as natural as silicone implants, but they tend to be slightly less expensive and generally safer in the rare case of a complication. For example, if a saline implant ruptures, it’s easy for your body to reabsorb the sterile solution. Saline breast implants are available for patients over the age of 18.

What Should I Expect During the Surgery?


Once you’ve consulted with Dr. Sato and decided on the specifics of your customized breast implants, your breast augmentation surgery will be performed, outpatient. Before the surgery, Dr. Sato will give you thorough instructions to prepare for the procedure. Typically, the procedure is performed under general anesthesia and takes approximately one to two hours to complete. Once the anesthesia has taken effect, Dr. Sato will carefully insert the implants based on your unique treatment plan. Finally, she will close the incisions with sutures and apply bandages to complete the procedure.

Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation?

Adults unsatisfied with their breasts' size and/or shape could be good candidates for breast augmentation. Ideal candidates for the procedure should:

  • Be in generally good physical health
  • Have the desire to enhance the size, shape, and/or overall appearance of the breasts
  • Have fully developed breasts
  • Be over the age of 18 (for saline implants) or 22 (for silicone implants)
  • Not be currently pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Have realistic expectations for the procedure
  • Be a non-smoker or willing to quit temporarily

Why Choose Advanced Surgical Technology for Your Breast Augmentation?

When you choose Advanced Surgical Technology for your breast augmentation, you’ll be under the expert care of Dr. Erika Sato and the rest of our dedicated staff. Dr. Sato will take the time to get to know you and understand your unique needs, allowing her and her team to provide personalized treatment and the breathtaking results you desire. If you’re ready to schedule your consultation and begin the breast augmentation process, simply contact our office today.

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