Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that enhances the shape and size of the breasts using implants or, in select cases, fat transfer. As one of the most popular cosmetic procedures performed today, breast augmentation can address various concerns, ranging from naturally small breasts to volume loss after pregnancy or weight changes.

Dr. May's approach goes beyond a simple size increase to create results that look and feel naturally beautiful.

While breast augmentation won't dramatically change your fundamental appearance, it can restore shape and fullness, improve breast symmetry and create more balanced proportions.

Dr. May believes that the best breast augmentations are tailored to your unique goals, lifestyle and body type, enhancing what you already have for the most natural-looking results.

Breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia and generally takes about one to two hours to complete, but this can vary. Additional procedures, like a breast lift or tummy tuck, will extend the length of surgery. During your breast augmentation, Dr. May will insert your selected implants through carefully placed incisions, usually beneath the fold of the breast. Once the implants have been inserted, he will close the incisions using meticulous techniques to minimize scarring.

The success of your breast augmentation depends on several key decisions that Dr. May will walk through with you during your consultation. Rather than rushing you through the process, he takes the time to explain how different options will affect your final outcome. These thoughtful choices work together to create results that look natural and feel right for your body.

Implant Types

Dr. May offers both saline and silicone implants, along with a full range of trusted brands, such as Motiva, Mentor, Allergan and Sientra implants. Silicone implants are pre-filled with a cohesive gel material that closely mimics the feel and appearance of natural breast tissue and have become the go-to choice for most breast augmentations. SaliPne implants, used less frequently given the excellent advancements in silicone technology, are filled after insertion with a sterile saltwater solution and can create a rounder, more dramatic look. Other options to consider when choosing your implants include shape, texture and projection. 

Implant Size & Profile

Implants are measured by their volume in cubic centimeters (cc) rather than cup sizes to provide an accurate, consistent assessment of volume. Generally, every 150-200cc equals approximately one cup size, but even this can vary depending on factors like your height and chest dimensions. That being said, most patients opt for implants between 250-500cc.

While implant volume is important, from a surgeon’s perspective, Dr. May is more focused on the implant dimensions and whether it fits your chest appropriately. Implants that are too narrow or too wide will create an unnatural appearance.

Implant profile refers to how much the implant projects forward from the chest. Depending on the manufacturer, options include low, moderate, moderate-plus and high profiles, each creating different looks. There’s no such thing as one size fits all in breast augmentation and Dr. May will help you select the best combination of implant size and profile to achieve your aesthetic goals while maintaining natural proportions.

Incision Location

The type of incision used during breast augmentation depends on your goals, anatomy and implant type. Incisions are placed in discreet locations to minimize visible scarring, the most common being beneath the curve of the breast (inframammary incision), which is Dr. May’s preference as he feels it is the most safe and has the lowest rate of complications. Other locations include the border around the nipple (periareolar incision) or in the armpit (axillary incision). Dr. May will help select the best incision location for your unique needs. 

Implant Placement 

Implants can be placed either below the pectoral muscle (submuscular) or above it (subglandular or subfascial), with each approach offering unique advantages depending on your anatomy and goals. Submuscular placement remains the most widely used technique for breast augmentation, offering a more natural slope in patients with less breast tissue, improved long-term outcomes and better mammogram visualization. Subglandular or subfascial placement can also be a good option for highly athletic patients or those with sufficient soft tissue coverage. Dr. May will evaluate your lifestyle, body type and aesthetic preferences to determine the optimal placement for your desired result.