What exactly is breast augmentation or breast implants? The answer to that question opens up the possibilities, if you are considering a surgical solution for your breast shape and size. In simple terms, a breast augmentation is a surgery to increase the volume and change the shape of breasts. Women who pursue this option are looking to increase the size of their breasts or to create lift. Breasts can lose volume and shape due to weight loss, pregnancy or breastfeeding. If a breast or breasts have been removed through a mastectomy, breast reconstruction is an option. Breast augmentation can make a difference in a woman’s self-esteem and confidence. When time and changes in the body make it difficult to reconcile the body you remember with the body you see in the mirror, breast augmentation can make a difference. 98% of women, of the over 5,000 reviews on RealSelf, report that this plastic surgery is “worth it”.

Dr. James Banich, of Vanguard Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics, confirms this idea of why women seek out breast augmentation. “Women often come looking for a boost in self-esteem: to match their body with the body image they’ve always desired. Another common reason women consult with me is that they are trying to recapture the body they had before the changes of pregnancy or weight loss.” As a board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Banich has seen the results this surgery has had on his patient’s confidence.

A patient that recently scheduled a consultation with Dr. Banich for breast augmentation describes her motivation to seek this surgery, “After losing weight after gastric bypass surgery, I was so happy with all the results – especially my improved health. What I couldn’t come to terms with were my misshapen breasts. They don’t go with the rest of the body I am proud to have now.” This idea, that the breasts they have are not what a woman envisions, inspires many to seek more answers and to schedule that initial consultation with a plastic surgeon.

Questions, such as what to expect during that cosmetic consultation, how much does it cost, or what will the recovery be like, can all be reasons why women don’t take that first step towards making a change with their breasts. The consultation is the best opportunity to find out if your outcome expectations are possible. Finding a surgeon that you are comfortable with, that has experience with breast augmentations, and that shares an aesthetic philosophy you both agree on, is important. Adeline, Surgery Coordinator for Dr. Banich, describes his philosophy this way, “Reconstruction is his passion. Recreating form to function is what inspires his work.”

The consultation is where you can start to learn more about cost and surgical options as well. Your medical history, along with the pictures and measurements that are taken during this consultation, help your plastic surgeon make the most personalized and expert plan for your breast surgery. The risks of the surgery are also reviewed on this visit. It is also a good idea to do some homework on the surgeons you are considering. As a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons® (ABPS), you know they are meeting high qualifications. These members are part of the only plastic surgery society in the Unites States recognized by a medical certification board that has been around since 1934.

 

 

There are different surgical techniques used for breast augmentation. These techniques include differences in where the incisions are made and if fat transfer or implants will be used (and what type of implants – silicone, saline, and form-stable “gummy bear” breast implants are examples of various types that each have their own unique traits and pricing). Not only do the implant textures vary, the contours of the implant vary. Surgeons typically have preferences in incision locations and types of implants they use based on the expectations of the patient and their body type. Breast augmentation candidates may also need a breast lift to attain the desired results. Trust in your choice of surgeon is imperative.

The average total cost of breast augmentation can vary and is made up of individual charges. The surgeon’s fee, the surgical center fee, the anesthetic, and the implants will all have a cost that makes up the total. Different areas of the country will have higher and lower costs too. Some surgeon’s will also include a consultation fee and may even apply that fee towards the surgery. Dr. Banich is among some plastic surgeons that currently do not charge a fee for the consultation. Dr. Banich offers this visit complimentary, as he is establishing his practice in the Colorado Springs-area after over 10 years as part of the Mayo Clinic Health System in Wisconsin. You can expect to receive a cost-breakdown and a quote after your consultation.

Breast augmentation is not covered by insurance, but there are some breast surgeries that are covered. Breast reconstruction due to mastectomy must be covered by insurance thanks to the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998. Breast reduction can also be covered by insurance, if it is deemed medically necessary.  Although cost is an important consideration, this should not be the only or main consideration when selecting a surgeon. Credentials, experience, and the ease and trust you feel with the doctor are as important. You should also be able to see before and after pictures of their work. Asking women you know for recommendations on surgeons can be helpful. Many people will know someone that has had this surgery. Breast augmentation was the most popular cosmetic surgery last year. Over 313,000 surgeries were performed in the U.S. in 2017.

 

The continued popularity of breast augmentation means a woman is not alone in her desire to have the body she remembers or wants. There are things to consider when choosing whether to move ahead with breast augmentation. The choice in plastic surgeon is the most important part of the decision and the outcome. There is not a price that can be put on the enhanced self-esteem that comes from confidence. If that confidence is attained through changing your breasts, then exploring that possibility will always be worth it.

To schedule a plastic surgery consultation with board certified plastic surgeon Dr. James Banich, call 719-355-1585. Dr. Banich sees plastic surgery patients in the Briargate and Broadmoor offices for Vanguard Skin Specialists.