Choosing to undergo breast surgery is a big decision. Deciding on the type of procedure that makes the most sense for your specific needs can be overwhelming. At Dr. J. J. Wendel Plastic Surgery, our team is always available to help guide you through every step of your plastic surgery journey. Here, we are breaking down common breast procedures to help you feel more confident in selecting your solution and your surgeon.
Breast Augmentation is Still #1
The most commonly performed cosmetic surgery in the country, breast augmentation, enhances the breasts’ natural size and shape through the use of breast implants. Women choose to undergo breast augmentation for many reasons. Whether they are dissatisfied with their breasts due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, or aging, or they wish to have a larger, more voluminous, perky or symmetrical chest, many women visit our office in hopes of improving their self-esteem and with it their quality of life.
Breast Augmentation Consultation
Before surgery, you will have a consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. J. J. Wendel, who will suggest the best size and type of breast implants for your body and desired results. We offer several options of breast implants, including the most advanced style available, “gummy bear implants,” which give a soft appearance and maintain the breasts’ natural shape. This month, we are offering $250 off one of our favorite silicone implants, Natrelle Gel Breast Implants, through August 31st!
During the consultation, Dr. Wendel will walk you through his recommendations for incision placement, whether that is under your breasts, in your armpit, or around your nipples. He will also explain any risks and side effects associated with breast augmentation and break down the process for recovery. At Dr. J. J. Wendel Plastic Surgery, we ensure that you not only achieve amazing results, but that you also clearly understand each detail of the plastic surgery breast augmentation process. Our nurse manger Penny will also answer any questions and be a trusted partner and advocate from your pre-op through each post-op appointment.
Breast Fat Transfer
Another option for increasing breast size, breast fat transfer is a non-invasive solution for fuller, larger breasts with no implants or major scarring. During breast fat transfer, Dr. Wendel performs liposuction from areas of the body to remove unwanted body fat, such as the abdomen or thighs, and injects the fat cells into the chest.
Keep in mind that breast fat transfer results are not as predictable as breast implants. With breast augmentation, sizing is predetermined during the consultation. Patients interested in breast fat transfer should know that their breasts will typically increase by no more than one cup size.
“This procedure can give great, lasting results. Although, it is never guaranteed how much of the fat will actually live in a specific area. Implants may be necessary if you are wanting to achieve a fuller appearance.” - J. Jason Wendel, M.D.
If you are interested in natural-looking, fuller breasts, or correcting existing breast asymmetry, you could be a great candidate for breast fat transfer. However, if there is a specific size and look that you would like to achieve, our office recommends breast augmentation with implants.
Breast Lift
Breast lifts are very common for women after childbirth, breastfeeding, or fluctuations in body weight, which can all cause the breasts to lose volume and sag. Breast lifts can be performed with or without implants. For some women, a lift can restore their youthful, perky breasts alone. There is always the option of adding implants during breast lift surgery for additional volume and more noticeable but natural-looking curves.
Before a breast lift at our fully-accredited facility, Dr. Wendel will consult with you to determine the degree of lift needed, how many incisions may be required, and answer any of your questions. During surgery, he will start with an incision around your nipple area, then lift and reshape your breast tissue while removing any extra, sagging skin. During the procedure, the nipple is typically reduced and moved to a higher spot on the breast.
Breast Reduction Surgery
Many women and men experience pain every day due to their large breasts. Breast reduction surgery can be an excellent option for those with chronic back and shoulder pain. By removing excess weight from the breasts and restoring a more comfortable size and shape, breast reduction surgery can be a life-changing procedure.
Quality of life can be severely impacted by carrying the weight of heavy breasts. Breast reduction surgery is one of the most well-tolerated breast plastic surgery procedures with only a mild to moderate amount of discomfort during the recovery process.
Male Breast Reduction Surgery
Did you know that one out of every three men is unhappy with his breasts? If you are a male experiencing self-consciousness due to large breasts (gynecomastia), male breast reduction surgery could be for you. Dr. Wendel would be more than happy to provide you with a more masculine chest by removing your excess breast tissue and skin, which can sometimes be performed solely through liposuction.
Breast Implant Removal and Revision
Are you unhappy with your breast implants? Whether you want a full removal or would like a replacement, we can help you feel more comfortable and satisfied with your breasts through breast implant revision or removal.
Patients with larger implants often ask if their breasts will droop after removal. If you are concerned about sagging, we suggest speaking with our office about breast lift or fat transfer surgery to restore a natural, lifted look, which can be paired with breast implant removal.
We also effectively replace implants for patients experiencing complications. Breast implant revision typically occurs through the existing incision, and patients can also request to schedule a breast lift procedure during this surgery.
Breast Reconstruction
Over the past 18 years, Dr. Wendel has performed over 5,000 successful reconstructive breast surgeries. If you have experienced a mastectomy and feel devastated by the loss, we would love to help you by reconstructing your breasts, whether you choose to reshape them with your natural tissue or would like implants. Dr. J. J. Wendel specializes in both methods and will ensure that you are completely comfortable with his recommendations.
Breast Surgery Recovery Information
All breast plastic surgeries are outpatient procedures, meaning patients are not required to stay in the hospital after their operation. Of course, patients should be driven home after surgery by someone who can also help assist them for 1-2 days. Our office will go over all post-op recovery instructions in detail, but here are some key steps that all patients should follow for a healthy, safe recovery:
- Get plenty of rest and follow a healthy diet
- Do not drink alcohol while taking pain medications
- Do not smoke
- Refrain from vigorous activity for 6 weeks
- Social and employment activities can be resumed in 3-10 days
- Shower 72 hours after surgery
- Do not expose scars to the sun for at least 12 months
- Keep incisions clean and dry, and inspect for signs of infection daily
- Wear your surgical bra at all times until your first post-op visit
- Do not sleep on your stomach for 6 weeks
Our office recommends following our full list of postoperative instructions for the best possible recovery. We also suggest breast surgery post-op bras that offer comfortable support to help you be as comfortable as possible.
Learn More About Your Breast Surgery Options
If you’re looking for the best plastic surgeon in Nashville for breast augmentation or any other type of breast surgery, don’t hesitate to contact our office to discuss your options. Dr. J. J. Wendel has won numerous awards and honors, including “Best Cosmetic Surgeon” in The Tennesseean’s TOAST Reader’s Choice Awards two years in a row, has been recognized as a Top Doctor in Nashville by Nashville Lifestyles magazine since 2016, and is a member of the RealSelf Hall of Fame for outstanding patient care.
