Breast Augmentation in Houston, TX
Plastic Surgeon Christopher Hankins, MD, provides natural-looking breast enhancement procedures including enlargement, reduction, breast lift or breast lift with enlargement as well as correction of enlarged male breasts (known as Gynecomastia). Premier Plastic Surgery is located near Houston and serves residents in Pearland, Lake Jackson, and the surrounding neighborhoods of South Houston.
What is a Breast Augmentation?
You may be one of the many women who feel uncomfortable about the size or symmetry of their breasts and are looking for a cosmetic surgical solution. At Premier Plastic Surgery, Dr. Christopher Hankins can help augment your bust line with natural-looking breast enhancement.
Dr. Hankins strongly believes that well-informed and well-advised patients are empowered to make sound decisions that will benefit them for years to come. This is particularly important in breast augmentation or breast enlargement surgery, as the specific breast implants used are ultimately the patient’s decision based on their goals under the guidance of the surgeon.
At Premier Plastic Surgery, we utilize the “High-Five” protocol, which is a disciplined and proven approach for determining the right size, projection, and type of breast implant for you. Although artistic ability is important in the determination of the right breast implant, so are the parameters such as symmetry, skin laxity, skin stretch, base width of the breasts, pocket size, and amount of volume needed to fill the breast. Nothing is left to chance in giving you the best possible results.
It is important to realize that over-sized implants will result in long-term atrophy of the breast and muscle. This requires the judgment of an experienced and prudent board-certified plastic surgeon to determine what size implants can be safely used without long-term complications caused by excessive pressure in the implant pocket. Most breast augmentation procedures are done by a short incision in the fold beneath the breast known as the inframammary approach.
Breast Augmentation Before & Afters
Patient #24088
Patient #26646
Patient #41432
Patient #106530
Patient #66477
Patient #9802
Patient #73154
About Breast Augmentation Surgery
Dr. Hankins utilizes the Akademikliniken method, originally described by Per Heden in Stockholm, Sweden, for determining when and by how much the fold beneath the breast should be lowered and to place the incision precisely at the level of the new fold.
It is not always necessary to place an implant beneath the muscle. In many instances, provided there is adequate thickness of the native breast tissue, the implant can be placed beneath the breast and over the muscle or the submammary approach.
One of the principle complications of breast augmentation is capsular formation, in which a hard, firm capsule can form around the implant due to a smoldering sub-clinical infection with S. epidermidis. In order to minimize this risk, Dr. Hankins utilizes the “no touch” technique, in which the incision for the breast pocket is re-prepped, gloves are changed, and the implant is delivered into the pocket using a Keller funnel, thus avoiding contact with either gloves or the skin surrounding the incision of the breast pocket.
Disadvantages of the submuscular approach include increased recovery time, increased pain, animation of the breast implants with muscular contraction, and increased risk of a “double bubble” deformity, in which a mound is created beneath the muscle and the breast is literally falling off the mound. These can be avoided by judicious use of a submuscular pocket when placement of the implant in such a pocket only when it is clinically indicated.
There are a number of decisions you will have to make when undergoing the breast augmentation procedure. The first decisions are on the type of implant (saline or silicone implants), the shape of the implant (tear-drop or round) and the texture of the implant (textured or smooth). Dr. Hankins will help you with sizing the implants and decisions on the type of implant.
Additional important decisions are on the surgical techniques and the type of incision. The various types of incisions used in breast augmentation are:
- Inframammary – An incision made at the bottom of the breast near the breast fold. This is the most commonly used incision, as it allows for improved accuracy of implant placement.
- Areolar or Periareolar – An incision made around the edge of the nipples. This incision serves as the entry point for the implant.
- Transaxillary – This type of incision is made in the crease of the armpit where the implant is inserted.
- Transumbilical –This type of incision is referred to as the “scarless” option as the incision is made within the belly button. This approach requires the use of special surgical tools.
Women are often concerned about scarring from their breast enlargement procedure. Dr. Hankins explains that scarring resulting from the breast augmentation depends on which technique is utilized.
- In the submammary approach, the scar is approximately 4 cm or less in length and is placed just above the inframammary fold, i.e., the junction of the breast with the chest wall.
- In the periareolar approach, the scar is located at the junction of the pigmented and non-pigmented skin at the border of the areola.
There are two methods that yield no scarring on the breasts themselves. The two methods by which the breast may be augmented without placing any scars on the breast are called transaxillary and transumbilical (TUBA).
- In the transaxillary approach, an incision is placed in the axilla below the fold of the pectoralis major muscle. A dissection plane can then be readily developed below the pectoralis major (fan-shaped muscle in chest) or, in special circumstances, beneath the pectoralis fascia (thin layer of tissue covering muscle) as in female body builders.
- In the TUBA or transumbilical approach, two incisions are made inside the umbilicus (depression at center of abdomen) at 10 and 2 o’clock. Subcutaneous tunnels are then created from the umbilicus to the breast. Using this approach, it is possible to place the implants either above or below the muscle.
The specific type of incision and approach are based on each patient’s anatomy, size of the enlargement, type of breast implant, and the agreed upon preference of the patient and recommendation of Dr. Hankins. In some patients, a breast lift may need to be combined with breast augmentation surgery to optimize the woman’s breast enhancement goals. In some cases, it is best to accomplish the same goal in two procedures.
Breast augmentation surgery is performed under general anesthesia at an accredited surgical center or hospital. No drains are necessary, and patients are discharged home after the procedure with prescribed pain medication and specific post-surgical care instructions. A surgical bra needs to be worn postoperatively.
About Breast Implant Removal
Another type of breast augmentation is breast implant removal. If you’ve had a breast augmentation in the past and are unhappy with the results or experiencing complications, Dr. Hankins can remove the implants and perform breast revision surgery to correct the deformity.
Who is a Candidate for Breast Augmentation Surgery?
At Premier Plastic Surgery, Dr. Hankins’ patients typically desire breast surgery to:
- Reshape asymmetrical breasts
- Create a more balanced figure
- Restore lost breast volume due to pregnancy and/or breast-feeding
- Restore lost breast volume after significant weight loss
- Restore lost breast volume and shape due to aging
- Improve self-confidence and body image
If you are concerned about the size and shape of your breasts, schedule a breast augmentation consultation with Dr. Hankins.
How much does breast augmentation cost? Premier Plastic Surgery proudly offers financing options for our patients – call our office for pricing information.
Do you think breast augmentation might be right for you? There’s one way to find out for sure – contact us today and set up a free consultation! We’re happy to discuss all your options so you can make a well-informed decision. Contact the office or come by in person today. Our offices proudly serve residents in Houston, Pearland, Lake Jackson and the surrounding areas of South Houston.
Breast Augmentation Recovery
Breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure, which means that patients can recover in the comfort of their own homes. Patients are encouraged to focus on rest and relaxation for the first few days after surgery. Lingering discomfort can be managed with pain medication. Most patients feel well enough to return to work in one to two weeks. It can take several weeks for swelling and bruising to fully subside and for the final results to become visible. But these symptoms are mild as a rule.
Breast Augmentation Costs
Because each breast augmentation is customized, the price of the surgery varies from patient to patient, with relevant factors including the implant type and the specific techniques Dr. Hankins uses. Specific costs are discussed during the consultation phase so you know what to expect. Although breast augmentation is not covered by most insurance plans since it is an elective procedure, Dr. Hankins does offer financing options through LendingUSA, as well as other finance companies. This makes paying for the surgery so much easier.
Breast Augmentation Testimonials
“Dr. Hankins and his staff are true professionals who provided me with a seamless breast augmentation experience. He truly cares about his patients. The implants look so natural. I could not have asked for better results.” – S.B.
“Dr. Hankins is very knowledgeable! He truly cares about your satisfaction and answers all your questions. My [breast augmentation] results are perfect and look so natural for my frame and body type.” – C.T.
“10 stars from me. Dr. Hankins took his time with me to make sure that the breasts would look natural and perfect. He is a true artist. It’s been such a blessing to have found him. Also, kudos to his staff they made the process really easy.” – S.W.
Breast Augmentation FAQs
When will I see the results of breast augmentation?
It takes between three and four months before you will see the final results of breast augmentation. You may see some initial results earlier than that, but swelling will need to fully diminish before you see the final outcome.
Is it okay to have breast augmentation before having children?
Breast implants are very unlikely to impede your ability to breastfeed, especially when Dr. Hankins uses surgical techniques that preserve the milk glands, so breast augmentation is acceptable for women who intend to have children in the future. Because pregnancy is known to change the shape, volume, and elevation of breasts (regardless of whether they have implants), if you are planning to have children in the near future, you may decide to postpone breast procedures until after your pregnancy.
What should I avoid after breast augmentation surgery?
You\u2019ll want to avoid lifting anything heavy, submerging your incisions in water, smoking, alcohol, and sleeping on your side or stomach after breast augmentation. Dr. Hankins will let you know when you can safely return to your regular activities.
How long can I enjoy my breast augmentation results?
When performed by an excellent plastic surgeon like Dr. Hankins, breast augmentation results can last a very long time. In most cases, breast implants can safely remain in your chest for 8 \u2013 10 years before replacement may become necessary. Dr. Hankins encourages you to maintain a steady weight and to wear sunscreen on any exposed breast skin when outdoors to keep your breasts looking appealing for as long as possible.
What is the difference between breast augmentation and a breast lift?
There are quite a few differences between breast augmentation and a breast lift. While breast augmentation can enhance your breast size, a breast lift addresses sagging skin and drooping breasts. A breast lift cannot address the same issues a breast augmentation can and vice versa. Often, breast augmentation and breast lift performed at the same time to address small breast and sagging skin.
When can I shower after breast augmentation surgery?
You’ll want to wait at least 72 hours before you shower after breast augmentation surgery. Because the highest infection risk is within 72 hours post op. For the first 3 days we suggest you to take a sponge bath for the area not operated on. After 3 days post op you can take a shower with antibacterial soap. Dr. Hankins usually apply a waterproof gel on surgical wounds. 2 weeks after surgery, we’ll have it removed.
Can breast augmentation help to elevate my breasts?
The primary goal of breast augmentation is to increase the volume of the breasts. If you are experiencing breast sagging as most women do as they age or after weight loss or pregnancy, breast augmentation will not help to bring your breasts to a higher position on your chest. However, Dr. Hankins often combines breast augmentation with breast lift to maximize the results. This is the best option for achieving larger, younger-looking breasts.
What other procedures can be combined with breast augmentation?
Many other procedures can be combined with a breast augmentation, including a breast lift, liposuction, and a tummy tuck.
Breast Augmentation in Houston, TX
Plastic Surgeon Christopher Hankins, MD, provides natural-looking breast enhancement procedures including enlargement, reduction, breast lift or breast lift with enlargement as well as correction of enlarged male breasts (known as Gynecomastia). Premier Plastic Surgery is located near Houston and serves residents in Pearland, Lake Jackson, and the surrounding neighborhoods of South Houston.
What is a Breast Augmentation?
You may be one of the many women who feel uncomfortable about the size or symmetry of their breasts and are looking for a cosmetic surgical solution. At Premier Plastic Surgery, Dr. Christopher Hankins can help augment your bust line with natural-looking breast enhancement.
Dr. Hankins strongly believes that well-informed and well-advised patients are empowered to make sound decisions that will benefit them for years to come. This is particularly important in breast augmentation or breast enlargement surgery, as the specific breast implants used are ultimately the patient’s decision based on their goals under the guidance of the surgeon.
At Premier Plastic Surgery, we utilize the “High-Five” protocol, which is a disciplined and proven approach for determining the right size, projection, and type of breast implant for you. Although artistic ability is important in the determination of the right breast implant, so are the parameters such as symmetry, skin laxity, skin stretch, base width of the breasts, pocket size, and amount of volume needed to fill the breast. Nothing is left to chance in giving you the best possible results.
It is important to realize that over-sized implants will result in long-term atrophy of the breast and muscle. This requires the judgment of an experienced and prudent board-certified plastic surgeon to determine what size implants can be safely used without long-term complications caused by excessive pressure in the implant pocket. Most breast augmentation procedures are done by a short incision in the fold beneath the breast known as the inframammary approach.
Breast Augmentation Before & Afters
Patient #24088
Patient #26646
Patient #41432
Patient #106530
Patient #66477
Patient #9802
Patient #73154
About Breast Augmentation Surgery
Dr. Hankins utilizes the Akademikliniken method, originally described by Per Heden in Stockholm, Sweden, for determining when and by how much the fold beneath the breast should be lowered and to place the incision precisely at the level of the new fold.
It is not always necessary to place an implant beneath the muscle. In many instances, provided there is adequate thickness of the native breast tissue, the implant can be placed beneath the breast and over the muscle or the submammary approach.
One of the principle complications of breast augmentation is capsular formation, in which a hard, firm capsule can form around the implant due to a smoldering sub-clinical infection with S. epidermidis. In order to minimize this risk, Dr. Hankins utilizes the “no touch” technique, in which the incision for the breast pocket is re-prepped, gloves are changed, and the implant is delivered into the pocket using a Keller funnel, thus avoiding contact with either gloves or the skin surrounding the incision of the breast pocket.
Disadvantages of the submuscular approach include increased recovery time, increased pain, animation of the breast implants with muscular contraction, and increased risk of a “double bubble” deformity, in which a mound is created beneath the muscle and the breast is literally falling off the mound. These can be avoided by judicious use of a submuscular pocket when placement of the implant in such a pocket only when it is clinically indicated.
There are a number of decisions you will have to make when undergoing the breast augmentation procedure. The first decisions are on the type of implant (saline or silicone implants), the shape of the implant (tear-drop or round) and the texture of the implant (textured or smooth). Dr. Hankins will help you with sizing the implants and decisions on the type of implant.
Additional important decisions are on the surgical techniques and the type of incision. The various types of incisions used in breast augmentation are:
- Inframammary – An incision made at the bottom of the breast near the breast fold. This is the most commonly used incision, as it allows for improved accuracy of implant placement.
- Areolar or Periareolar – An incision made around the edge of the nipples. This incision serves as the entry point for the implant.
- Transaxillary – This type of incision is made in the crease of the armpit where the implant is inserted.
- Transumbilical –This type of incision is referred to as the “scarless” option as the incision is made within the belly button. This approach requires the use of special surgical tools.
Women are often concerned about scarring from their breast enlargement procedure. Dr. Hankins explains that scarring resulting from the breast augmentation depends on which technique is utilized.
- In the submammary approach, the scar is approximately 4 cm or less in length and is placed just above the inframammary fold, i.e., the junction of the breast with the chest wall.
- In the periareolar approach, the scar is located at the junction of the pigmented and non-pigmented skin at the border of the areola.
There are two methods that yield no scarring on the breasts themselves. The two methods by which the breast may be augmented without placing any scars on the breast are called transaxillary and transumbilical (TUBA).
- In the transaxillary approach, an incision is placed in the axilla below the fold of the pectoralis major muscle. A dissection plane can then be readily developed below the pectoralis major (fan-shaped muscle in chest) or, in special circumstances, beneath the pectoralis fascia (thin layer of tissue covering muscle) as in female body builders.
- In the TUBA or transumbilical approach, two incisions are made inside the umbilicus (depression at center of abdomen) at 10 and 2 o’clock. Subcutaneous tunnels are then created from the umbilicus to the breast. Using this approach, it is possible to place the implants either above or below the muscle.
The specific type of incision and approach are based on each patient’s anatomy, size of the enlargement, type of breast implant, and the agreed upon preference of the patient and recommendation of Dr. Hankins. In some patients, a breast lift may need to be combined with breast augmentation surgery to optimize the woman’s breast enhancement goals. In some cases, it is best to accomplish the same goal in two procedures.
Breast augmentation surgery is performed under general anesthesia at an accredited surgical center or hospital. No drains are necessary, and patients are discharged home after the procedure with prescribed pain medication and specific post-surgical care instructions. A surgical bra needs to be worn postoperatively.
About Breast Implant Removal
Another type of breast augmentation is breast implant removal. If you’ve had a breast augmentation in the past and are unhappy with the results or experiencing complications, Dr. Hankins can remove the implants and perform breast revision surgery to correct the deformity.
Who is a Candidate for Breast Augmentation Surgery?
At Premier Plastic Surgery, Dr. Hankins’ patients typically desire breast surgery to:
- Reshape asymmetrical breasts
- Create a more balanced figure
- Restore lost breast volume due to pregnancy and/or breast-feeding
- Restore lost breast volume after significant weight loss
- Restore lost breast volume and shape due to aging
- Improve self-confidence and body image
If you are concerned about the size and shape of your breasts, schedule a breast augmentation consultation with Dr. Hankins.
How much does breast augmentation cost? Premier Plastic Surgery proudly offers financing options for our patients – call our office for pricing information.
Do you think breast augmentation might be right for you? There’s one way to find out for sure – contact us today and set up a free consultation! We’re happy to discuss all your options so you can make a well-informed decision. Contact the office or come by in person today. Our offices proudly serve residents in Houston, Pearland, Lake Jackson and the surrounding areas of South Houston.
Breast Augmentation Recovery
Breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure, which means that patients can recover in the comfort of their own homes. Patients are encouraged to focus on rest and relaxation for the first few days after surgery. Lingering discomfort can be managed with pain medication. Most patients feel well enough to return to work in one to two weeks. It can take several weeks for swelling and bruising to fully subside and for the final results to become visible. But these symptoms are mild as a rule.
Breast Augmentation Costs
Because each breast augmentation is customized, the price of the surgery varies from patient to patient, with relevant factors including the implant type and the specific techniques Dr. Hankins uses. Specific costs are discussed during the consultation phase so you know what to expect. Although breast augmentation is not covered by most insurance plans since it is an elective procedure, Dr. Hankins does offer financing options through LendingUSA, as well as other finance companies. This makes paying for the surgery so much easier.
Breast Augmentation Testimonials
“Dr. Hankins and his staff are true professionals who provided me with a seamless breast augmentation experience. He truly cares about his patients. The implants look so natural. I could not have asked for better results.” – S.B.
“Dr. Hankins is very knowledgeable! He truly cares about your satisfaction and answers all your questions. My [breast augmentation] results are perfect and look so natural for my frame and body type.” – C.T.
“10 stars from me. Dr. Hankins took his time with me to make sure that the breasts would look natural and perfect. He is a true artist. It’s been such a blessing to have found him. Also, kudos to his staff they made the process really easy.” – S.W.
Breast Augmentation FAQs
When will I see the results of breast augmentation?
It takes between three and four months before you will see the final results of breast augmentation. You may see some initial results earlier than that, but swelling will need to fully diminish before you see the final outcome.
Is it okay to have breast augmentation before having children?
Breast implants are very unlikely to impede your ability to breastfeed, especially when Dr. Hankins uses surgical techniques that preserve the milk glands, so breast augmentation is acceptable for women who intend to have children in the future. Because pregnancy is known to change the shape, volume, and elevation of breasts (regardless of whether they have implants), if you are planning to have children in the near future, you may decide to postpone breast procedures until after your pregnancy.
What should I avoid after breast augmentation surgery?
You\u2019ll want to avoid lifting anything heavy, submerging your incisions in water, smoking, alcohol, and sleeping on your side or stomach after breast augmentation. Dr. Hankins will let you know when you can safely return to your regular activities.
How long can I enjoy my breast augmentation results?
When performed by an excellent plastic surgeon like Dr. Hankins, breast augmentation results can last a very long time. In most cases, breast implants can safely remain in your chest for 8 \u2013 10 years before replacement may become necessary. Dr. Hankins encourages you to maintain a steady weight and to wear sunscreen on any exposed breast skin when outdoors to keep your breasts looking appealing for as long as possible.
What is the difference between breast augmentation and a breast lift?
There are quite a few differences between breast augmentation and a breast lift. While breast augmentation can enhance your breast size, a breast lift addresses sagging skin and drooping breasts. A breast lift cannot address the same issues a breast augmentation can and vice versa. Often, breast augmentation and breast lift performed at the same time to address small breast and sagging skin.
When can I shower after breast augmentation surgery?
You’ll want to wait at least 72 hours before you shower after breast augmentation surgery. Because the highest infection risk is within 72 hours post op. For the first 3 days we suggest you to take a sponge bath for the area not operated on. After 3 days post op you can take a shower with antibacterial soap. Dr. Hankins usually apply a waterproof gel on surgical wounds. 2 weeks after surgery, we’ll have it removed.
Can breast augmentation help to elevate my breasts?
The primary goal of breast augmentation is to increase the volume of the breasts. If you are experiencing breast sagging as most women do as they age or after weight loss or pregnancy, breast augmentation will not help to bring your breasts to a higher position on your chest. However, Dr. Hankins often combines breast augmentation with breast lift to maximize the results. This is the best option for achieving larger, younger-looking breasts.
What other procedures can be combined with breast augmentation?
Many other procedures can be combined with a breast augmentation, including a breast lift, liposuction, and a tummy tuck.
