Breast Augmentation in Minneapolis, MN
Breast augmentation surgery is among the most common cosmetic surgeries. Every woman’s breasts are different, and many women feel that their breasts are too small, unequal in size, or not in proportion with the rest of the body. Breast augmentation surgery can increase breast size and help to give women the bust line that they want. There are also other reasons for breast augmentation. You may be a good candidate for this surgery for many reasons, including those below:
- You are concerned that your breasts are too small.
- You feel that you would look better overall if your breasts were larger.
- Weight loss, aging, or a pregnancy has caused your breasts to be smaller.
- Your breasts are unequal in size and shape.
Personal Consultation of Breast Augmentation or Breast Implant Surgery
If you’re considering breast augmentation, the first step in the process is a consultation with a plastic surgeon who is experienced with this surgery. Dr. McCue, a board-certified plastic surgeon, has a special interest in breast augmentation surgery, along with much experience with these procedures. Your consultation will include the taking of a thorough medical history and a discussion of your reasons for wanting breast augmentation. A breast examination and evaluation of your skin type and other factors will lead to a discussion of your options for the procedure and what results you can expect. You’ll also get complete information about the benefits and risks of your surgery.
One of the things Dr. McCue will discuss with you is the type of implant to be used in your procedure. With the FDA’s approval, silicone implants are once again available as a choice for breast augmentation, and saline implants may also be used.
- Saline Implants – These implants are made of a non-reactive silicone outer shell, filled with a sterile solution of salt water. They may be pre-filled, or filled at the time of surgery, allowing for adjustments in size.
- Silicone Implants – Using a similar outer shell as the saline implants, these implants are filled with a silicone gel. The implants are pre-filled to a specific size. Silicone implants have a density and feel similar to your own breast tissue.
During the procedure, the implant will be placed in a pocket surgically created just behind your normal breast tissue or underneath the muscles behind the breast. Incisions for this surgery are placed in inconspicuous areas, depending on the procedure, so they minimize visible scarring. Dr. McCue will discuss implant type, incision placement and other factors with you and will answer all of your questions.
Implant Shapes
Round
Round implants help to create a fuller breast shape, putting density at both the top and bottom of the breast. They are ideal for enhancing your cleavage. They are available in saline or silicone.
Teardrop
Also known as form stable or gummy bear implants, teardrop implants are known for creating a more natural breast shape by giving the breasts a youthful, sloping shape. Here, most of the implant’s density is located below the nipple. They are only available in silicone.
Placement
Dr. McCue can place your implants in front of or behind your pectoral muscles. The right choice for placement depends on your preferences and aesthetic goals.
Subglandular Placement
This approach puts the implant between the muscle and the breast tissue. It is ideal for creating fuller upper breasts and exaggerating your cleavage. It is also a wiser approach for women who believe they may wish to breastfeed later since it doesn’t impede with nursing. Subglandular implants are also less likely to shift out of place.
Submuscular Placement
This approach places the implant underneath the chest muscle. Usually, this helps to create a more natural look since the implant is more cushioned and cannot be seen through the breast skin. It also makes mammograms easier to undergo. Because it is a slightly more invasive approach, recovery can take a little bit longer, but it is still a very safe technique given that it poses a much lower risk for capsular contracture.
What to Expect
Once you’ve decided to go ahead with your breast augmentation, you’ll get complete instructions from Dr. McCue on what you need to do to prepare, and what you can expect before, during, and after the surgery. A Twin Cities surgical facility will be chosen and a date scheduled for the procedure. Dr. McCue will gladly answer any questions you may have. Each breast augmentation surgery is unique and is tailored to the patient, so Dr. McCue will explain exactly what he will do during your procedure.
Depending on the details of your surgery, you may go home on the same day after a recovery period following the surgery, or you may spend a night in the hospital.
Either way, you’ll be given detailed instruction about what to do following the surgery, along with things to avoid. You may be prescribed medications to prevent infection and for discomfort.
As with all surgery, complete recovery will take a variable amount of time. After the post-surgical recovery period of one to two days, the results will be apparent, but some minor swelling may last longer, and incision lines will fade over time. Dr. McCue will explain exactly what to expect in your particular case, and will schedule follow-up visits.
Why Choose Dr. McCue for Breast Augmentation
Dr. McCue is a board-certified plastic surgeon through the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has more than 20 years of experience in both cosmetic and reconstructive breast procedures.
He takes time to answer every question and explain each step of surgery so patients understand what to expect before and after their procedure. Our practice follows evidence-based techniques, and patient reviews consistently reflect Dr. McCue’s attentive manner and commitment to high-quality results.
Breast Augmentation FAQ’s
Will breast augmentation improve the elevation of my breasts?
Breast augmentation’s objective is to enhance the size and shape of your breasts. It can not positively change the elevation of your breasts. If you are concerned about breast drooping, ask Dr. McCue about breast lift. Breast lift is easy to combine with breast augmentation to create your ideal breast appearance.
How do I choose a breast implant size?
Dr. McCue can help you determine your ideal size prior to your surgery. You may try on multiple sizes to see which best achieves your preferred profile and proportions so that there are no surprises.
How much does breast augmentation cost?
Breast augmentation costs are determined by factors like which type and size of implants you choose, and which surgical approach Dr. McCue utilizes to insert the implants. After devising a unique surgical plan during a consultation to address your cosmetic requests, Dr. McCue can provide a quote. Financing options are available to help you cover the cost of this elective surgery.
How long can I expect my breast implants to last?
Most breast implants last about 10 to 20 years before they should be removed or replaced. If you are concerned with the condition of your implants, it is a good idea to consult with a doctor to determine if breast revision/breast explant surgery is appropriate.
Should I wait to get breast augmentation if I want to have children in the future?
In most cases, it is not necessary to wait. Dr. McCue can place your implants under the pectoral muscles so that they don’t interfere with your ability to nurse later. The only time Dr. McCue may suggest postponing breast augmentation is if you are planning to have children very soon. Because your breasts can change size, shape, and elevation following pregnancy, it may make sense to wait so that you can maintain the precise proportions that you want.
Will breast augmentation fix breast asymmetry?
Many patients naturally have some degree of asymmetry. Breast augmentation can improve balance by selecting different implant sizes for each side or by combining augmentation with a breast lift when needed. After examining your anatomy, Dr. McCue will recommend the option that best creates a more even appearance.
What is the recovery like after breast augmentation?
Patients typically experience soreness and tightness during the early healing period. Most people are comfortable resuming light daily activities fairly soon, while more strenuous exercise must wait until Dr. McCue confirms that healing is progressing well. He provides a detailed, personalized timeline so you know exactly when it is safe to return to work and exercise.
What does breast augmentation look like over time?
Breasts continue to age naturally. Gravity, skin elasticity, and weight changes may affect long-term appearance, but implants generally maintain their shape for many years. Some patients choose revision or a lift later in life to keep their results as youthful as possible.
Will breast implants affect my mammograms?
Mammograms can still be performed with implants. Radiology technicians use specialized imaging views to ensure breast tissue is fully evaluated. Implants do not prevent breast cancer detection.
How visible will my scars be?
Dr. McCue places incisions in locations that can be easily concealed, such as beneath the breast fold or around the areola. Scars typically fade over time with proper care. He will discuss incision placement during your consultation so you know exactly what to expect.
Can I sleep on my side after surgery?
Most patients are advised to sleep on their backs for the first few weeks to avoid pressure on the chest. Side sleeping is typically allowed once healing progresses and the implants have settled into place.
When can I start exercising again?
Light movement is typically encouraged early in recovery, but returning to structured exercise happens gradually. Dr. McCue will guide you on when to resume activities like cardio, strength training, and chest-focused workouts based on how your body is healing. His personalized approach ensures you progress safely and comfortably.
What incision options are available for breast augmentation?
Dr. McCue places incisions in naturally discreet areas to keep scars as hidden as possible. The ideal incision location depends on several factors, including your anatomy, implant type, and whether the implant is placed above or below the muscle. Implant placement can influence which incision gives the best access, but it is only one part of the overall decision. During your consultation, Dr. McCue will explain the approach he recommends and why it best supports your goals and healing.
Will I lose nipple sensitivity after a breast augmentation?
Temporary changes in nipple sensation can occur as nerves adjust during healing. Most patients notice improvement over time, although recovery varies from person to person. Dr. McCue will discuss what is typical based on your surgical plan.
What are the risks of breast augmentation?
All surgery carries some degree of risk. Possible complications include capsular contracture, implant rupture, infection, and changes in sensation. Choosing a board-certified and experienced surgeon like Dr. McCue helps reduce these risks, and his evidence-based approach supports safe healing.
Is Breast Augmentation or Implant Right for You?
If you are over 18 years of age, in good health, and you feel that having larger breasts may be the right decision for you, scheduling a personal consultation with a plastic surgeon is the first step toward your goal. You’ll get the information you need and can decide, after an assessment and discussion with the doctor, whether you want to go forward. Dr. McCue will be happy to consult with you on your plans, and help you make your decision by providing accurate, respectful information and advice. Contact his Minneapolis St. Paul office soon to schedule a consultation.
