Question 1

Am I a good candidate for breast reduction?

Accepted Answer

Breast reduction removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin. Unlike most cosmetic procedures, it is often medically necessary and has among the highest patient satisfaction rates in plastic surgery.
Ideal Candidate Profile

Symptoms: Chronic neck, back, or shoulder pain or headaches caused by heavy breasts
Physical limitations: Difficulty exercising or performing daily activities
Skin issues: Chronic rashes or irritation in the breast crease
Shoulder grooving: Deep, painful indentations from bra straps
Non-smoker with stable weight and good overall health

Insurance Coverage
Most insurers require documented symptoms lasting 6+ months, failed conservative treatments (physical therapy, supportive bras), and a minimum tissue removal amount. Augusta Plastic Surgery has extensive experience with insurance breast reduction &#8212; see our insurance breast reduction page for details.
For Men (Gynecomastia)
Male breast reduction addresses enlarged male breast tissue via liposuction alone or combined with excision, after ruling out hormonal causes.
Who Should Wait
Delay if you&#8217;re planning pregnancy soon, still growing (under 18), actively losing significant weight, or smoking.
The best way to know is a personal consultation with Dr. Ewart or Dr. Tarakji. Schedule a consultation or call (706) 724-5611.

Question 2

Am I a good candidate for a breast lift?

Accepted Answer

A breast lift (mastopexy) raises and reshapes sagging breasts by removing excess skin and tightening surrounding tissue.
Ideal Candidate Profile

Breast ptosis (sagging): Nipples that point downward or sit at or below the breast crease
Lost volume and shape from pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss, or aging
Satisfied with breast size: If you want more volume too, a lift with augmentation is common
Stable weight for 6+ months and done breastfeeding for 3-6 months
Non-smoker: Smoking dramatically increases risk of wound complications

The &#8220;Pencil Test&#8221;
Place a pencil under your breast crease. If your breast holds the pencil in place, some ptosis is present. If the nipple drops below the pencil level, a lift would likely benefit you. This is a rough guide &#8212; a proper evaluation happens at your consultation.
Lift vs. Augmentation vs. Both

Lift only: Good volume, sagging position
Augmentation only: Good position, want more volume
Lift + augmentation: Sagging AND volume loss &#8212; the most common combination for post-pregnancy patients

Breastfeeding After a Lift
Most techniques preserve the ability to breastfeed, though there&#8217;s no guarantee. Discuss future plans with your surgeon.
The best way to know is a personal consultation with Dr. Ewart or Dr. Tarakji. Schedule a consultation or call (706) 724-5611.

Question 3

Am I a good candidate for breast augmentation?

Accepted Answer

Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures worldwide, but not everyone is an ideal candidate.
Ideal Candidate Profile

Age: At least 18 for saline implants, 22 for silicone (FDA guidelines)
Good health: No active infections or serious illness; chronic conditions well-controlled
Non-smoker: Smoking increases risks of capsular contracture, infection, and poor healing. We recommend quitting as early as possible (ideally 4-6 weeks before) and require a minimum of 2 weeks nicotine-free before surgery
Stable weight: Stable for at least 6 months prior to surgery
Realistic expectations: Augmentation enhances proportion and symmetry but cannot achieve perfection

You May Be an Especially Good Candidate If You Have

Naturally small breasts disproportionate to your frame
Asymmetry of one cup size or more
Post-pregnancy volume loss after breastfeeding
Chest wall differences such as Poland syndrome or pectus excavatum

BMI and Health
Most surgeons prefer candidates with BMI under 30; higher BMI increases risks of infection and poor wound healing.
Who Should Wait
Consider postponing if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, planning pregnancy soon, unable to take 1-2 weeks off, or an active smoker unwilling to quit. Good candidates seek augmentation to enhance confidence, not define it.
The best way to know is a personal consultation with Dr. Ewart or Dr. Tarakji. Schedule a consultation or call (706) 724-5611.

Question 4

What is breast reduction recovery like?

Accepted Answer

Breast reduction recovery is similar to breast lift recovery but with the added benefit of immediate symptom relief. Most patients report that back and neck pain improves within days of surgery.
Days 1-3: Immediate Post-Op

Surgical bra or bandages applied for support
Moderate pain managed with prescribed medication
Drains may be placed (removed at days 1-5)
Sleep propped up at 30-45 degrees on your back
Many patients notice immediate relief from back/neck/shoulder pain &#8212; even through post-surgical discomfort

Week 1: Early Recovery
First follow-up at days 5-7. Drains removed if present. Bruising begins fading. Transition to OTC pain relief by days 4-5. Most patients return to desk work by days 7-10.
Weeks 2-4: Progressive Healing
Swelling decreases steadily. Breasts begin settling into their new shape and position. May transition to a soft wireless support bra. No lifting over 10 pounds.
Weeks 5-8: Return to Activity
Most restrictions lifted by week 6. Light exercise resumes. Bra shopping for your new size can begin.
Months 3-12: Final Results
Breast shape finalizes by month 3-6. Scars fade over 6-18 months. Temporary numbness resolves in most patients within 6-12 months. Breast reduction has among the highest satisfaction rates of any procedure in plastic surgery.
Every patient heals differently &mdash; your surgeon will give you personalized guidance at your consultation. Schedule a consultation or call (706) 724-5611.

Question 5

What is breast lift recovery like?

Accepted Answer

Breast lift recovery is similar to breast augmentation but involves more incisions and tissue rearrangement, so healing takes slightly longer.
Days 1-3: Immediate Post-Op
Moderate discomfort, swelling, and bruising around the breasts. Surgical bra or bandages applied. Pain managed with prescribed medication.

Sleep propped up at 30-45 degrees on your back
Avoid raising arms above shoulder height
Surgical bra worn 24/7 for support
Short gentle walks encouraged

Week 1: Early Recovery
First follow-up at days 5-7 for incision check. Bruising begins to fade. Most patients transition to OTC pain relief by day 4-5. Return to light desk work by day 5-7 for many patients.
Weeks 2-4: Progressive Healing
Breasts begin settling into their new shape. Swelling decreases noticeably week by week. Light activity increases. No lifting over 10 pounds. Sensation changes (numbness, tingling) are common and expected.
Weeks 5-8: Return to Activity
Most restrictions lifted by week 6. Light exercise resumes. Full exercise including upper body work typically allowed at week 6-8.
Months 3-12: Final Results
Breast shape finalizes by month 3-6. Scars transition from red/pink to lighter tones over 6-18 months. Proactive scar care makes a real difference: begin silicone strips or gel at 3-4 weeks, protect scars from sun for 12 months, and consider scar massage at 6 weeks.
Every patient heals differently &mdash; your surgeon will give you personalized guidance at your consultation. Schedule a consultation or call (706) 724-5611.

Question 6

What is breast augmentation recovery like week by week?

Accepted Answer

Recovery from breast augmentation is gradual. Understanding each phase helps you prepare mentally, physically, and logistically.
Days 1-3: Immediate Post-Op
Expect chest tightness and moderate to significant discomfort &#8212; most patients describe intense pressure rather than sharp pain. You&#8217;ll receive prescription pain medication transitioning to over-the-counter by day 4-5. Wear your surgical bra 24/7.

Significant swelling and bruising &#8212; breasts appear very high and swollen
Limited arm movement; avoid raising arms above shoulders
Sleep propped at 30-45 degrees on a recliner or wedge pillow
Need someone to assist for first 24-48 hours
Gentle house walks encouraged to prevent blood clots

Week 1: Early Recovery
Pain manageable with OTC medication by day 4-5. Bruising fades. Implants remain high (&#8220;riding high&#8221;) &#8212; this is normal. Most return to desk work by day 5-7. First follow-up at day 5-7.

Surgical bra 24/7
No lifting over 5 pounds
No driving while on narcotic pain medication
Don&#8217;t pick at steri-strips or surgical glue

Weeks 2-4: Progressive Healing
Significant comfort improvement. Implants begin to &#8220;drop and fluff&#8221; into a natural position. Light exercise (walking, stationary bike) may resume around week 3. Most patients feel 80% recovered by week 3-4.
Months 2-3: Return to Normal
Most restrictions lifted by 6-8 weeks. Full exercise including chest work resumes. Drop and fluff continues for 3-6 months (silicone) or ~3 months (saline).
Months 3-12: Final Results
By month 3, expect ~90% of final results. Final position, softness, and shape reached by 6-12 months. Scars mature for up to 18 months.
A note for our patients: Many Augusta Plastic Surgery patients choose the Preserv&eacute; technique, which uses smaller incisions and a tissue-preserving approach &#8212; most Preserv&eacute; patients return to desk work and light activities within 1-2 days.
Every patient heals differently &mdash; your surgeon will give you personalized guidance at your consultation. Schedule a consultation or call (706) 724-5611.

Question 7

Preservé: What Type of Implants Are Used with This Technique?

Accepted Answer

The Preservé technique exclusively uses sixth-generation Motiva implants, which represent the most advanced breast implant technology available today. These implants are specifically designed to complement the tissue-preserving approach of the Preservé method.

Key Features of Motiva Implants:

SmoothSilk Surface Technology:

Nano-textured surface that promotes tissue integration
Lowest reported rates of capsular contracture
Virtually eliminates the risk of BIA-ALCL (a rare lymphoma associated with textured implants)


Ergonomix Design:

Adapts naturally to your body position—round when lying down, teardrop-shaped when standing
Mimics natural breast movement
No risk of implant rotation issues seen with traditional shaped implants


ProgressiveGel Ultima:

Advanced silicone gel that moves and feels like natural breast tissue
Maintains shape while providing natural softness
Superior cohesiveness for long-term safety


BluSeal Technology:

Barrier layer that prevents silicone gel bleed
Additional layer of safety and protection


Why Motiva with Preservé:
The combination of the Preservé technique's tissue-preserving approach with Motiva's advanced technology delivers results that are exceptionally natural in both appearance and feel. These implants can be inserted through the small 2-3cm incisions used in the Preservé technique while providing optimal long-term outcomes.

Question 8

Preservé: What Is Recovery Like After This Technique?

Accepted Answer

One of the most significant advantages of the Preservé technique is its remarkably fast recovery compared to traditional breast augmentation. Here's what you can expect:

Days 1-2: Immediate Recovery

Most patients experience minimal discomfort—often described as muscle soreness rather than pain
Many patients return to desk work and light daily activities within 1-2 days
You can shower the day after surgery
Bruising is typically minimal due to the bloodless dissection technique


Weeks 1-2: Early Healing

Swelling begins to subside
Most patients feel comfortable driving within a few days (once off pain medication)
Light walking and normal daily activities are encouraged
You'll wear a supportive surgical bra as directed


Weeks 2-4: Progressive Activity

Gradual return to more physical activities
Lower body exercises can typically resume
Continue avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous upper body activity


Week 6 and Beyond: Full Recovery

Most patients can resume all normal activities, including exercise
Final results begin to settle and take shape
Follow-up appointments ensure optimal healing


Why Recovery is Faster:
The Preservé technique's faster recovery is directly related to its tissue-preserving approach—smaller incisions, no muscle disruption, preservation of Cooper's ligaments, and the bloodless surgical field all contribute to less trauma and quicker healing.

Question 9

Preservé: Am I a Good Candidate for This Technique?

Accepted Answer

The Preservé technique is ideal for many women seeking breast augmentation, though the best way to determine candidacy is through a personal consultation. Generally, you may be an excellent candidate if you:

Ideal Candidates:

Desire natural-looking results: You want breasts that look and feel natural, with subtle enhancement rather than an obviously augmented appearance
Have minimal to moderate sagging: The technique works best for women with good skin elasticity and breast tissue quality
Want faster recovery: You need to return to daily activities quickly and cannot take extended time off work
Are concerned about animation deformity: You're active or exercise regularly and want to avoid implant distortion during muscle flexion
Prefer smaller incisions: You want to minimize visible scarring
Value long-term results: You're looking for results that will age naturally over time


Additional Considerations:
You should be in good overall health, a non-smoker (or willing to quit before and after surgery), and have realistic expectations about outcomes.

Who May Need Alternative Options:
Women with significant breast sagging may benefit from combining the Preservé technique with a breast lift, or may be better suited for traditional methods. During your consultation at Augusta Plastic Surgery, we'll assess your unique anatomy and goals to recommend the best approach for you.

Question 10

Preservé: What Are Cooper’s Ligaments and Why Does Preserving Them Matter?

Accepted Answer

Cooper's ligaments are fibrous connective tissue structures that run from the chest wall through the breast tissue to the skin. Named after Sir Astley Cooper, the surgeon who first described them, these ligaments act as a natural internal support system—essentially the "scaffolding" that maintains your breast shape and position.

Why Cooper's Ligaments Matter:

Natural support: They provide structural integrity and help maintain breast shape over time
Prevent sagging: Intact ligaments help resist the effects of gravity and aging
Natural movement: They allow breasts to move naturally while maintaining their position


Traditional vs. Preservé Approach:
Traditional breast augmentation techniques often damage or sever these ligaments during pocket creation. This can lead to:

Increased risk of bottoming out (implants dropping too low)
Accelerated sagging over time
Less natural breast movement


The Preservé technique specifically preserves Cooper's ligaments through careful blunt dissection, maintaining your breast's natural support system. This preservation is one of the key reasons why Preservé patients experience more natural-looking, longer-lasting results with reduced risk of implant malposition.

Cosmetic Breast Reduction

Our Approach to Breast Reduction

Risks and How We Minimize Them

Common Concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

Surgery Details

Post-Op Instructions

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