Breast Augmentation

Are you dissatisfied with the size and shape of your breasts?

Have you lost volume after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss?

These are some of the most common reasons why women choose to have breast augmentation in Tulsa. Choosing to undergo cosmetic breast enhancement surgery can be exciting and scary all at once. Dr. Ladd Atkins and his staff understand this and when you choose Body By Ladd, you can put your fears to rest. With his years of experience and reputation for achieving natural-looking results, you can be comfortable in knowing that the size and shape will be individually fit to your body type and not look obvious or fake. Dr. Atkins’ success is due to his commitment to individualized care. Breast augmentation is not a one size fits all procedure, and many factors must be considered before you choose the best option for you. At Body By Ladd the goal of treatment is to enhance, rather than to overwhelm. We want your breast implants to become your best accessory, and to never interfere with your lifestyle.

 

Are You Considering Breast Augmentation?

INCREASED VOLUME

Many women have naturally small breasts. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss and the natural aging process can contribute to the loss of breast volume, resulting in deflated breasts. Breast augmentation improves the balance between the breasts and the rest of the body by adding volume and fullness to small or deflated breasts.

IMPROVE SHAPE

Breasts which are uneven or oddly shaped are very common and can occur due to aging, weight fluctuations, genetics, or pregnancy. Some patients want a natural and subtle result, while others seek rounder and more dramatic results. Dr. Atkins can help his patients choose the optimal implant profile and shape to create the ideal bustline and cleavage.

IMPROVE SYMMETRY

Along with size and shape, most women have some degree of asymmetry between their breasts. This can make it difficult to find tops and bras that fit correctly. Patients who choose to have breast augmentation can achieve more symmetrical breasts as well as enhance their projection, position, and shape. 

INCREASED SELF-ESTEEM

Studies have shown that women who decide to have breast augmentation procedures often experience a significant increase in self-esteem and positive feelings about their sexuality.

Are You Considering Breast Augmentation?

INCREASED VOLUME

Many women have naturally small breasts. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss and the natural aging process can contribute to the loss of breast volume, resulting in deflated breasts. Breast augmentation improves the balance between the breasts and the rest of the body by adding volume and fullness to small or deflated breasts.

IMPROVE SHAPE

Breasts which are uneven or oddly shaped are very common and can occur due to aging, weight fluctuations, genetics, or pregnancy. Some patients want a natural and subtle result, while others seek rounder and more dramatic results. Dr. Atkins can help his patients choose the optimal implant profile and shape to create the ideal bustline and cleavage.

IMPROVE SYMMETRY

Along with size and shape, most women have some degree of asymmetry between their breasts. This can make it difficult to find tops and bras that fit correctly. Patients who choose to have breast augmentation can achieve more symmetrical breasts as well as enhance their projection, position, and shape. 

INCREASED SELF-ESTEEM

Studies have shown that women who decide to have breast augmentation procedures often experience a significant increase in self-esteem and positive feelings about their sexuality.

Is Breast Augmentation Right For Me?

We see patients of all shapes and sizes. There is no typical body shape or size that makes a perfect candidate for breast augmentation. Breast enhancement is the number one cosmetic surgical procedure performed in the United States. Every woman who chooses implants does so for different reasons. We have patients of all ages who simply want an enhancement and others that desire a complete change. Many of our patients are women who have gone through childbirth and breastfeeding which left their breasts deflated and sagging.

Women who are suitable candidates for breast augmentation surgery:

  • Are physically healthy
  • Have realistic expectations
  • Have fully developed breasts, but are bothered they are too small
  • Have breasts that lost shape or volume during pregnancy, weight loss, or aging
  • Have breasts that are asymmetric
  • Have one or more breasts that failed to develop normally

Realistic Expectations for Breast Enhancement

It is important that potential candidates for breast enhancement surgery have clear and realistic expectations when it comes to their surgery. Be sure to communicate with your surgeon if you have any questions or concerns about what you should expect with your surgery.

3 common misconceptions that lead to unrealistic expectations for breast augmentation

  • An implant alone will correct all issues with the breast
  • An implant alone will change the shape of the breast
  • All asymmetries will be corrected

Many patients fail to realize that, although breast implants will certainly make their breasts larger, they don’t guarantee a change in their shape or their position on your chest wall. More so, breast implants DO NOT lift your breasts if your nipples are below the IMF (infra-mammary fold). You may also need a breast lift to achieve that result.

It is important to look at the before and after pictures of breast augmentations. If you focus on the change from before to after you will notice that the before will dictate what the after results will be. Implants alone will not perfect every concern you might have as they were designed to provide a fuller appearance of the breasts.

Breast Implant Size Options

It is important that you choose the correct size for your breasts per your expectations and body type. If you choose to go too small, you will disappointed, but too large of implants can lead to lower back pain and discomfort. We will work with you in helping you to decide what is best for you.

When thinking of size, many begin to think of desired cup size. At Body By Ladd we want you to focus on the look you want. If you can provide pictures of friends or models it could give your surgeon here at Body By Ladd a good idea of your goals.

The Rice Test

One option which may help you in deciding your optimal size is the rice test. This simple test can help you figure out which size breast implant, by cubic centimeters (cc), is the best fit for you. The goal is to help you adjust to the look and feel of larger breasts before you make a permanent decision.

 

What You’ll Need:

  • Uncooked rice
  • A food scale or measuring cup
  • A pair of nylon stockings
  • A fitted sports bra

How to Do the Rice Test:

  • Make the “Shell”: Cut a 12-inch length of nylon. Use the foot portion or a piece of the leg portion tied off on one end.
  • Measure or weigh the rice: There are several versions of the rice test that use different measurements. Achieving an accurate measurement is challenging because of the way implants are sized. If you are using a food scale, all you need to know is that 1 ounce of rice is equivalent to 30 cc. For example, 5 ounces of rice is roughly the same size and weight as a 150 cc implant.
    If you’re using a measuring cup, use the following as a guideline:
    1/8 cup rice = 30 cc
    1/4 cup rice = 59 cc
    1/3 cup rice = 78 cc
    1/2 cup rice = 118 cc
    2/3 cup rice = 156 cc
    3/4 cup rice = 177 cc
    1 cup rice = 236 cc
  • Fill the shell: Fill the bag or stocking with the amount of rice you have decided on. Close the bag or tie off the other end of the stocking.
  • Try them out: Place the sealed bags full of rice into the bra and wear them as you go about your typical daily routine while paying close attention to how they look and feel.

Change It Up! The great thing about the rice test is that it lets you try everything out before making a final decision. If you do not like the first size you try, just dump out the rice and remeasure.

Breast Implant Size Options

It is important that you choose the correct size for your breasts per your expectations and body type. If you choose to go too small, you will disappointed, but too large of implants can lead to lower back pain and discomfort. We will work with you in helping you to decide what is best for you.

When thinking of size, many begin to think of desired cup size. At Body By Ladd we want you to focus on the look you want. If you can provide pictures of friends or models it could give your surgeon here at Body By Ladd a good idea of your goals.

The Rice Test

One option which may help you in deciding your optimal size is the rice test. This simple test can help you figure out which size breast implant, by cubic centimeters (cc), is the best fit for you. The goal is to help you adjust to the look and feel of larger breasts before you make a permanent decision.

 

What You’ll Need:

  • Uncooked rice
  • A food scale or measuring cup
  • A pair of nylon stockings
  • A fitted sports bra

How to Do the Rice Test:

  • Make the “Shell”: Cut a 12-inch length of nylon. Use the foot portion or a piece of the leg portion tied off on one end.
  • Measure or weigh the rice: There are several versions of the rice test that use different measurements. Achieving an accurate measurement is challenging because of the way implants are sized. If you are using a food scale, all you need to know is that 1 ounce of rice is equivalent to 30 cc. For example, 5 ounces of rice is roughly the same size and weight as a 150 cc implant.
    If you’re using a measuring cup, use the following as a guideline:
    1/8 cup rice = 30 cc
    1/4 cup rice = 59 cc
    1/3 cup rice = 78 cc
    1/2 cup rice = 118 cc
    2/3 cup rice = 156 cc
    3/4 cup rice = 177 cc
    1 cup rice = 236 cc
  • Fill the shell: Fill the bag or stocking with the amount of rice you have decided on. Close the bag or tie off the other end of the stocking.
  • Try them out: Place the sealed bags full of rice into the bra and wear them as you go about your typical daily routine while paying close attention to how they look and feel.

Change It Up! The great thing about the rice test is that it lets you try everything out before making a final decision. If you do not like the first size you try, just dump out the rice and remeasure.

Breast Implant Shape Options

When choosing breast implants, shape is an important consideration. The two basic breast implant shapes are round and teardrop. Breasts differ greatly from woman to woman, so the ideal breast implant shape for each patient must be determined with care.

Round and teardrop (anatomical) breast implants are the two basic shapes for breast implants. Your breast shape is as unique as you, so your breast implant shape must be determined with great consideration.

The most popular shape amongst breast surgeons is round due to its ease to insert and the lower revision ratio. Round breast implants are symmetric, so the shape is not affected if the implant rotates after placement.

Anatomical breast implants (teardrop) have a more natural appearance. These breast implants are more popular with patients whose breasts have been distorted from childbirth, breastfeeding, or extreme weight loss. Texturing of the breast implant has reduced the risk of rotating.

Types of Breast Implants

The two basic types of breast implants are saline-filled breast implants and silicone filled breast implants. Both have advantages and disadvantages.

Saline-filled breast implants are plastic shells filled with sterilized salt water. The FDA has approved saline-filled breast implants for women over the age of 18.

Many women prefer saline implants because of the cost. Saline implants are up to 25% less expensive than silicone. Another reason is the implant is inserted deflated, allowing for a smaller incision and less scarring.

The disadvantages of saline implants are many women complain they don’t feel natural, and over time they have been known to ripple.

Silicone gel breast implants are plastic shells filled with silicone gel. The FDA has approved silicone gel breast implants for women over the age of 22.

Advantages of silicone gel breast implants are they feel more natural and are less likely to ripple.

With silicone-filled breast implants, the implant is inserted full size in the breast tissue. This calls for a longer incision with a higher risk for scarring. Also, if the implant ruptures the silicone stays put, making it difficult to detect the rupture. Periodic check-ups are recommended.

Form stable breast implants are also known as gummy bear breast implants because they maintain shape if the implant shell ruptures. The silicone has a thicker consistency which makes them firmer and less likely to break.

Breast Implant Shape Options

When choosing breast implants, shape is an important consideration. The two basic breast implant shapes are round and teardrop. Breasts differ greatly from woman to woman, so the ideal breast implant shape for each patient must be determined with care.

Round and teardrop (anatomical) breast implants are the two basic shapes for breast implants. Your breast shape is as unique as you, so your breast implant shape must be determined with great consideration.

The most popular shape amongst breast surgeons is round due to its ease to insert and the lower revision ratio. Round breast implants are symmetric, so the shape is not affected if the implant rotates after placement.

Anatomical breast implants (teardrop) have a more natural appearance. These breast implants are more popular with patients whose breasts have been distorted from childbirth, breastfeeding, or extreme weight loss. Texturing of the breast implant has reduced the risk of rotating.

Types of Breast Implants

The two basic types of breast implants are saline-filled breast implants and silicone filled breast implants. Both have advantages and disadvantages.

Saline-filled breast implants are plastic shells filled with sterilized salt water. The FDA has approved saline-filled breast implants for women over the age of 18.

Many women prefer saline implants because of the cost. Saline implants are up to 25% less expensive than silicone. Another reason is the implant is inserted deflated, allowing for a smaller incision and less scarring.

The disadvantages of saline implants are many women complain they don’t feel natural, and over time they have been known to ripple.

Silicone gel breast implants are plastic shells filled with silicone gel. The FDA has approved silicone gel breast implants for women over the age of 22.

Advantages of silicone gel breast implants are they feel more natural and are less likely to ripple.

With silicone-filled breast implants, the implant is inserted full size in the breast tissue. This calls for a longer incision with a higher risk for scarring. Also, if the implant ruptures the silicone stays put, making it difficult to detect the rupture. Periodic check-ups are recommended.

Form stable breast implants are also known as gummy bear breast implants because they maintain shape if the implant shell ruptures. The silicone has a thicker consistency which makes them firmer and less likely to break.

What to Expect

Breast augmentation is usually an outpatient procedure. You will receive general anesthesia, and the surgery usually lasts about one to two hours.

During surgery, your surgeon Dr. Atkins, makes incisions either around the nipples, underneath the breast crease, in the armpit, or in the navel. The location of the incision depends on what you have discussed with your surgeon. Your surgeon will be careful to create and place the incisions in a way that minimizes any visible scarring.

Through the incisions, a small pocket for the implant, either between the pectoral muscle and the breast tissue or underneath the pectoral muscle is made. The implant will be positioned within the pocket. The incision is then closed with sutures.

Breast Augmentation Recovery

Thanks to modern surgical techniques that Dr. Atkins uses, recovery is not as long as it used to be. Often patients can return to work within a couple of weeks, but full recovery will be closer to two months.

During your initial recovery, your chest area and breasts will be bruised, swollen and tender. To reduce swelling and pain, you should sleep upright in a recliner for a couple of days after surgery to make it easier to get up and down. Don’t have a recliner – no problem – prop yourself up in your bed. Also, avoid any strenuous activity for two to three weeks. Take it easy and allow your body to heal properly!

What Type of Bra to Wear

Right after surgery, you will be provided with a post-operative garment for support and healing. You will wear that for about a week. After, a soft, comfortable bra, without underwires is desirable. Soft support will allow your implants to drop. After your implants settle, any bra you wish will suffice. In some cases when the implants are positioned early on, a supportive bra will be recommended to hold the implants in place. This is common in reconstruction cases and should your particular case need this, your surgeon will instruct you on using this garment.

 

Breast Augmentation Cost

For many patients, costs of implant surgery are important. There is no standard fee, and costs are calculated by many factors. For a better idea of what your particular treatment plan will cost, feel free to call our office at 918.943.1174.

 

Meet Your Surgeon

Dr. Atkins is one of Tulsa’s most popular and respected plastic surgeons. He strives to provide every patient with a personalized experience that includes the highest quality of medical care and ethics. Each patient receives their own customized surgical plan to give them the best outcome possible. His education includes :University of Arkansas – Fayetteville, AR, Oklahoma State University – College of Osteopathic Medicine and Medical Center of Independence (MO) -Surgical Residency. Dr. Atkins is affiliated with The American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, The American College of Surgeons, The American Osteopathic Association, The Oklahoma Osteopathic Association, The Medical Director of Wound Care, The Emergency at Pinnacle Specialty Hospital and The Emergency Physician for Bristow Medical Center. He currently resides in Tulsa, OK with his wife and children.

Breast Augmentation Complications

Possible surgery risks include:

  • Anesthesia risks
  • Bleeding/Hematoma
  • Infection
  • Changes in nipple or breast sensation
  • Poor scarring
  • A faulty position of the implant
  • Leakage or rupture
  • Capsular contracture
  • Fluid accumulates
  • Wrinkling of the skin over the implant
  • Persistent pain
  • The possibility of revision surgery

Dr. Ladd Atkins will address these risks and any other questions you might have during your consultation.

CONTACT US!
PHONE
918-893-9254

E-MAIL

ADDRESS
9940 E 81st Street
Tulsa, OK 74133