Breast Augmentation - Overview

Women choose breast augmentation for a variety of reasons – to boost their self-confidence, restore their figures after pregnancy or breastfeeding, or fit into more flattering clothes.  The scars tend to fade quickly, becoming very faint a year after surgery.

Breast Augmentation is one of Dr. Berman’s signature surgeries and among his top three most popular major procedures.

1What happens during a Breast Augmentation?

The surgery is carried out under general anesthesia. You cannot eat or drink after midnight, the night before surgery.

All implants are placed under the muscle using either an inframammary incision, meaning the lower portion of the breast above the breast crease, or along the lower half of the areola.  

If saline breast implants are used, Dr. Berman will use a very small incision that is approximately 1-½ inches. The saline breast implants are empty and they are filled once they are placed inside the patient. The only dressing is a small steristrip or piece of special tape. You can shower in 24 hours.

If silicone Breast Implants are chosen, Dr. Berman can often place the silicone Breast Implant through the lower half of the areolar with the use of an Implant funnel. Dr. Berman is certified in the use of this technique.

2What’s the difference between saline and silicone Breast Implants?

There is no “right” choice. Both will give excellent results for a breast enhancement. Each one has specific advantages.

The silicone breast implants have a more natural feel, because the density of the silicone is closer to that of the fatty tissue that gives breasts their soft feel. Silicone Breast Implants are also more expensive and often require a larger incision. For the past several years, Dr. Berman has been using the Funnel technique, allowing a much smaller incision.

Women must be at least 22 years of age before they can receive a silicone Breast Implant according to Food and Drug Administration regulations. The FDA recommends that women obtain MRIs every 2 years if they have silicone Breast Implants.

Dr. Berman will personally go over the advantages of saline versus silicone implants with you.

3Where would the surgery take place?

Dr. Berman performs the surgery at the Botticelli Surgicenter in McLean. You will need someone to drive you, as you cannot take a taxi home alone.

4Are there drains?

Dr. Berman has never used drains with his Breast Augmentation patients. He uses internal dissolving sutures, meaning nothing has to be removed afterward. The wound is covered with a steristrip. All patients can shower the day following surgery.

5What kind of postoperative care is required?

Dr. Berman’s patients usually experience little or no bruising afterward, but it is common to have some swelling. Swelling most often occurs in the upper pole of the breast and will take some time to fully go away. For swelling, we recommend applying ice to the upper breast for 24-72 hours. Bags of frozen peas or corn work best. It usually takes 3 months for the implants to fully drop into place. 

Dr. Berman recommends that patients bring a sports bra to the operating room, and we will put you in this bra in  the recovery room. You will feel more comfortable if you wear the bra day and night, except in the shower, for at least a week. Dr. Berman will let you know exactly how long you will need to wear the bra.

Avoid heavy lifting for one month. Dr. Berman will discuss massaging the implants at your first postoperative visit, usually within five to seven days after surgery. It isn’t helpful and is generally painful to begin this massage process earlier than this.

You should begin stretch exercises on the drive home and do this a few times an hour when you are awake. This is one of the key tricks for preventing postoperative discomfort.

6How long does recovery take?

Most patients will take about 4 days off from work to recover, although Dr. Berman has had patients return to work as early as three days after surgery.

7What is the post-op follow-up schedule?

You will generally return to see Dr. Berman at weeks 1, 3, 6, and 12, and then at 6 and 12 months.

If you are from out of town, it is a simple matter to email photos for Dr. Berman to review or to do a virtual appointment online, so that you do not need to fly back for a follow up.
8Are there any activities you should avoid?

No. After 6 weeks, you can do anything you want.

One of Dr. Berman’s Breast Augmentation patients is a martial artist who fights in the ring, so it is possible to perform all of your normal activities after surgery.

One of Dr. Berman's patients did a half Ironman (1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike ride and 13 mile run) only 5 weeks after her Breast Augmentation.
9How long will my breast implants last?

No one knows exactly how long a Breast Implant will last, as it varies from patient to patient. If they remain soft and intact, there is no reason to remove them. Dr. Berman has had patients with excellent looking breasts with the same implants for over 20 years.

Some women have had their implants for more than 30 years. If you suffer from Breast Implant deflation from a previous procedure, Dr. Berman is a skilled surgeon and has experience removing and replacing deflated implants.

10What if my breasts are two different sizes now?

Dr. Berman has had several cases where breast sizes were dissimilar and was able to make the breasts very similar in size. There will always be small differences between each, but you will see a big improvement with this surgery.

11What if I get pregnant afterward?

Becoming pregnant soon after a Breast Augmentation should not have a negative impact on you or your surgery or your pregnancy.

Most women are able to breastfeed after having a breast augmentation.

gallery

Videos

Testimonials

  • liddykitty
    I had a breast augmentation about two months ago and I'm very pleased with the results so far. Dr. Berman and his staff were very responsive to any questions and concerns that I had. Appointments were easy to make and the clinic was easy to find. I have no complaints at all.
    liddykitty
  • Elated Mama
    I had a mommy makeover done by Dr. Berman which included breast augmentation, lift, liposuction, and a tummy tuck. He was very attentive and quick to respond to all of my questions and concerns after surgery. I'm currently 10 weeks post-op and I'm very satisfied with the results.
    Elated Mama
  • Danielle
    First and foremost, the care provided by Dr. Berman is nothing short of exceptional. He is not only highly knowledgeable and skilled in his field, but he also takes the time to truly listen to his patients. He addressed all of my concerns with patience and compassion. Dr. Berman's staff is equally remarkable. They are friendly, efficient, and create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It's evident that they take pride in their work and genuinely care about the well-being of their patients.
    Danielle
  • BeBe Parkes
    I love Dr. Berman and his entire team! He does excellent work and they are always there to help in anyway they can! I have had multiple procedures w/ Dr. Berman over the years and wouldn't trust anyone but him!
    BeBe Parkes
  • tarakochsi
    EXCELLENT Choice! I found Dr. Berman on RealSelf and could not be happier with my decision! I am 58 and 5'2", and 115 lbs - I went with 375cc and wish I had done this sooner - he is compassionate and caring, and everything went GREAT! My recovery was smooth (less than a week of discomfort) -and he and his team were available to answer all of my questions. Go for it!
    tarakochsi
  • AtinaMarie
    Dr. Berman is absolutely amazing! I can not express how incredibly wonderful his surgical skills are, his caring attentiveness to make sure I was doing well every step of the way! My experience from the moment I called for a consultation, the actual consultation, the scheduling person and process, the assistants, EVERY single staff I communicated with was so helpful, kind, caring and attentive! That being said, here is my AMAZING experience that far. I had breast augmentation on Monday, 5/15, early afternoon, I felt amazing when I woke up, I was so coherent and feeling so good that I was able to help my friend who was driving and lost, figure out how to get us home (we live an hour 1/2 away). I got home around 4:00, was starving (since no food after midnight the night before) I had another friend pick me up and we went out to dinner. 2 hours after surgery! I ate, felt great, I was tired on the way home, but feeling great! I was never nauseous after surgery or after eating. I went home watched TV, went to sleep, slept 10 hours, woke up feeling great! Tuesday I took a shower, did laundry, dishes, watched TV, went out to dinner once again with a different friend and again had a wonderful pain free day. Today is Wednesday, I have had some swelling but no pain, only the pressure of the fullness and I have taken No meds, not motrin, tylenol, No narcotics what so ever and I feel absolutely wonderful! Dr. Berman is my hero! I am a forever patient! I will never go anywhere else, and I will highly recommend him to all my friends, and anyone who compliments me on the Incredibly wonderful job he has done! His work is gorgeous and I feel beautiful! Thank you so very much Dr. Berman and your incredibly wonderful staff!
    AtinaMarie
  • Optimistic412407
    Doctor Berman was the perfect surgeon for my breast augmentation. He was quick, efficient, he understood what I wanted, and was honest throughout every step of the way. He never gave me any reason to feel stressed or concerned which was a big deal to me since this was my first time having surgery. I love my results and highly recommend him!
    Optimistic412407
  • Valentina Bramati
    I only have great things to say about Dr. Berman! I am one week post-op from a breast augmentation and could not be happier with my results. I was anxious about a surgery, as this has been my first cosmetic procedure, but Dr. Berman made the process so smooth and easy. He has been quickly accessible for any questions and has been keeping track of me and my progress ever since. The staff is extremely professional and sweet. I highly recommend to go with Dr. Berman!
    Valentina Bramati
  • Humorous488921
    I completely understand the struggle and anxiousness of not only deciding to get a cosmetic procedure, but choosing the optimal surgeon for the job. Believe me when I say to look no further than Dr. Berman. As an 18 year old who has been self conscious for years about my breasts (AA cups and one being tubular) I was nervous to go through with a surgery. Dr. Berman completely listened to all my needs and desires for the outcome I wished for. Not only am I one week post op, super happy with my results, and in little to no pain, Dr. Berman’s help did not stop when the surgery was done with. He has been keeping track of me and so quick to respond with any of my questions concerning my recovery. The process has been heaps quicker and smoother than what I had imagined going into this cosmetic procedure. This has been my first surgery and I will undoubtedly go with him again for any future ones I might decide to do! I strongly encourage anyone looking for a surgeon, to go with Dr. Berman. It’s worth it! Choose the best when dealing with your body!
    Humorous488921
  • Dr Berman is very professional and great at what he does. It’s obvious that he has 30+years of experience. Dr Berman stayed in close contact with me for days after my procedure and made sure I was on my way to a successful recovery. During my follow up appointments, I feel that he genuinely cares how things are going with my recovery and he is always available for questions, etc.
  • Rational309716
    I saw Dr. Berman for my breast augmentation 8 months ago and couldn’t be happier with the outcome. It’s been a great experience from the start. Every question or concern I had following the procedure was always answered thoroughly and in a timely manner. I’ve continued to see him for Botox injections as well and the results are awesome. It’s a bit of a drive for me, but absolutely worth it.
    Rational309716
  • LovingT4S
    I’m two weeks recovering from my procedure and I am feeling and healing great. This has been such a great experience for my first time having surgery of any kind. Dr. Berman was very attentive and was always there to answer any of my questions and concerns. His staff has always been helpful and friendly.
    LovingT4S
  • ST
    Currently two weeks recovering from Breast Augmentation and Tummy Tuck that was done by Dr. Berman and feeling awesome. Dr. Berman and his staff was wonderful and always so helpful. He is a very attentive doctor and was always there to answer any of my questions or concerns. After my surgery he contact me Several times to check on me and my recovery even during the holiday weekend. I have never met a doctor that was so attentive and considerate of their patients. Him and his staff made me feel very comfortable with my procedures. I am thankful to him for everything.
    ST
  • Layla Fore
    I had a breast augmentation and lift with Dr. Berman about 3 weeks ago. I cannot speak highly enough about Dr Berman and his team. From initial consult, I knew he was my surgeon and that I wouldn’t find a better team. Not only does he take the time to hear your concerns and address every last aspect, but he’s available anytime of the day for recovery questions. He actually took the time to reach out and check on me every day for several days post op. My recovery was a breeze and I couldn’t be more excited for my results!! His work is beautiful and speaks for its self.
    Layla Fore
  • Maaaaaaaa
    Dr. Berman performed my breast augmentation surgery last February. He answered all my questions prior to surgery and after, and gave very honest, direct answers which I appreciate. He can talk a little fast but will repeat anything you need him to. Everything went smoothly with my surgery and I'm healing well!
    Maaaaaaaa
  • Dr. Berman is absolutely amazing!! The staff in the office are wonderful ... I could not ask for a better doctor ... very professional & personable!! I had a lift & augmentation ... One week post op today! Pain was very minimal & was off the pain medication by the 2nd day ... I’m extremely happy with my results so far & I know it will only get better! Lots of love to Dr. Berman... I will definitely refer him to my family & friends
  • RachelSS54
    I had searched for 3 years for the right surgeon to perform my breast augmentation, and when I met Dr. Berman I knew immediately that I could trust him. He performed my surgery through a nipple incision with EASE. No one can see my scars as they are barely even there! I feel like my breasts finally look the way I always wanted them. My friends all want to get breast augmentations after seeing mine, and I always tell them they MUST go to Dr. Berman! He did an outstanding job and the results are beyond better than I ever dreamed of. They look and feel natural and I highly highly suggest that anyone looking for a Breast Augmentation only go to Dr. Berman. He has years of experience and is an extremely smart, tasteful, and caring man!! I cannot thank him enough!!
    RachelSS54
  • emautou
    I reviewed before and after photos from several prominent plastic surgeons in the DC-Maryland-Virginia area and it was clear that Dr. Berman performed the best work. Upon our first meeting, he provided honest, thorough information about the procedure. Dr. Berman and the staff at the surgery center were absolutely phenomenal on surgery day. Dr. Berman provides his personal contact information so you're able to ask any questions throughout the recovery, which was much faster than I expected. As someone who has never had stitches or broken a bone, I was nervous about the recovery - but I was back to life as normal after three days. I love the results, and plan on posting pictures later on. I highly recommend Dr. Berman, his staff, and the surgery center.
    emautou
  • Chelsea Brown
    Treating myself to a Breast Augmentation for my milestone birthday gift was the best decision! Surgery can be intimidating for anyone but Dr. Berman and his team could not have been more amazing! From personal check-ins from Dr. Berman post-surgery to the smiling faces of his staff and the fastest recovery I could have imagined, it all ended in the most superb results!
    Chelsea Brown
  • Taylor Edwards
    If I had to do it all over again, I wouldn't change a thing. When you're going through the process of deciding that you want some sort of body altering procedure it's not a decision that you take lightly. I had three other breast augmentation consultations before I stumbled upon Dr. Berman. I was actually referred to him by a family member and I'm so glad that I listened. Most times when you go in for these consultations you're pretty self-conscious and nervous beyond belief. Dr. Berman immediately made me feel comfortable. I could take a breath, relax and ask the questions that I wanted to ask and have the conversation that I wanted to have. Every step of the way he was so supportive, comforting, understanding, and just freaking amazing. When I decided that this was something that I really wanted to do he was all for it! He gave me all of the tools and information that I needed and went over everything super thoroughly. The ladies that work with him in his office also are absolutely irreplaceable. All of those women have been over the top generous with smiles, hellos, and how are yous. The entire experience beforehand was what you could only pray for when undergoing something like this. After my procedure, the same thing. The consistency and true thoughtfulness doesn't stop after you've given them lots of money! I am currently about 6 weeks post-op and I'm very happy with the plastic surgery team that I chose. Dr. Berman is so attentive and caring, going out of his way to check on you after-hours and on weekends, and his staff always answer the phone, emails and greets you by name, smiling when you walk through the doors. I can't brag enough about all of them. I don't plan on having any more work done anytime soon, but I 100% guarantee that should I find myself being curious Dr. Berman is the only one I will talk to about it!
    Taylor Edwards
  • username12356789
    As someone new to this and a bit unsure, Dr. Berman and his staff were excellent throughout the entire process. I didn't feel rushed or pushed, they were very accommodating and helped answer all my questions. The procedure itself couldn't have gone better. Highly recommend his services.
    username12356789

Contact us for a consultation!