Breast Augmentation Enjoy the Perfect Breast Profile

Over the years, breast augmentation surgery has made countless women thrilled with their contours, and remains one of the most popular forms of cosmetic surgery today. Whether the surgery is sought out to replenish lost volume, correct asymmetry, or add volume, breast augmentation is one of the most satisfying procedures for women because it gives them the ability to achieve the chest profile and shapely physique they want.

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Benefits of Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation offers both aesthetic and lifestyle benefits for patients looking to change the size, shape, or symmetry of their breasts. At the Virginia Institute of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Burton Sundin and Dr. Reps Sundin tailor each patient's implant type, size, and placement to their goals and anatomy, resulting in benefits such as:

  • A fuller, more proportionate silhouette that better balances the hips and shoulders.
  • Improved symmetry for patients with naturally uneven breasts.
  • Restored breast volume lost after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or significant weight loss.
  • Greater confidence in clothing and swimwear, with more options that fit the way patients want them to.
  • Long-term satisfaction, with many patients maintaining their results for a decade or more with proper monitoring.
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The Ideal Breast Augmentation Candidate

Breast augmentation is one of the most customizable surgical procedures available today, and we offer numerous options to meet your specific goals and accentuate your natural anatomy with the curves and contours you’d prefer. 

To get started on your cosmetic journey with breast augmentation in the Richmond, Northern Virginia, Tyson's Corner, Charlottesville, and Washington DC areas reach out to us and speak to a helpful member of our team to set up your consultation today.

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Different Types of Breast Implants

Implants today come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and types, with the primary consideration involving the choice between saline and silicone gel implants. Both implant types come in a durable silicone shell that is non-allergenic, non-carcinogenic, and non-irritating. Each type has certain advantages and during your consultation, we will make suggestions with regards to which will work best for you, in accordance with your personal goals.

Saline Implants

  • The saline fill is actually a saltwater solution much like the fluid that is already present in your body. In case of a rupture, your body just absorbs the fluid and deflation of the implant is apparent in the breast.
  • Because the implants are filled after insertion, the incision can be made slightly smaller than that of a gel implant.
  • There is flexible volume fill which can be adjusted during surgery and may be helpful in cases of breast asymmetry.

Silicone Gel Implants

  • Silicone gel implants offer a more natural look and feel.
  • The material inside is more jelly-like
  • The implants feel more like your natural fat.
  • Since the fill material is dense in nature, there is less risk of visible rippling and wrinkling.
  • Silicone implants come pre-filled in a variety of sizes.
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Breast Implant Placement

Breast implants can be placed under or above your pectoral (chest) muscle. Drs. Sundin will usually recommend placing implants in the subpectoral (under the muscle) position. This placement offers the added benefit of extra tissue coverage for the top portion of your implant, reducing the potential for visible ripples or wrinkles. There are instances when a sub-glandular (under the tissue, but above the muscle) placement may be recommended. Patients who are particularly athletic and enjoy lifting weights may opt for a sub-glandular placement to avoid the distortion that can be caused by working out the pectoral muscle. If there is mild droop to the breasts, a sub-glandular approach may be recommended as well.

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Incision Placement

The incision for breast augmentation is generally small, measuring approximately three to four centimeters in length. This may vary, depending on the size of the implant. Breast implants can be inserted using a variety of incision options, and Dr. Sundin will go over the incision technique that will be used during your procedure when you meet with him for your consultation.

Inframammary

This incision is made in the fold under the breast so that the scar is easily hidden in the natural position of the breast. This is usually our incision of choice since it can accommodate various breast implant sizes.

Periareolar

The periareolar incision placement is made in the bottom curve of the areola, where the darker color of the areola meets with the lighter color of your own skin. This allows for a relatively easy camouflage of the scar.

Transaxillary

The transaxillary incision is placed in the axillae (armpits).

Transumbilical

This incision is made in the belly button, but it is not as commonly used as the other incisions.

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Your Breast Augmentation Experience

Most breast augmentation surgeries take about one to two hours to complete and are performed under general anesthesia. You will likely need to take about a week off work to recover, during which time you will need to be careful about easing back into more strenuous upper body activities.

Breast Augmentation Recovery Timeline

Most patients return to a normal routine within four to six weeks, though the full timeline depends on the surgical technique and each patient's healing. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, a full recovery generally takes about four to six weeks, though many patients feel noticeably better within the first week.

  • First 24–48 Hours: Breasts are wrapped in a supportive bra or bandage to minimize swelling. Most patients go home the same day and rest with light activity only.
  • Week 1: Swelling and tightness are most noticeable during this period, though according to ASPS, the majority of initial swelling subsides within about two weeks. Patients typically return to desk work within a few days to a week.
  • Weeks 2–4: Discomfort continues to fade, and most patients can gradually resume light exercise once cleared by their surgeon. Heavy lifting and strenuous upper-body activity should still be avoided.
  • Weeks 4–6: Most patients are cleared for their full exercise routine, including upper-body workouts, by this point.
  • 3+ Months: Implants continue to settle into a natural position, with final results typically visible by three months.

How Much Does Breast Augmentation Cost? 

Our breast augmentation prices include our surgeon's fee, anesthesia, facility fees, and follow-up appointments. However, the final cost can vary based on the type of implants chosen and any additional procedures that may be performed in conjunction with the breast augmentation.

Pricing is as follows:

  • Breast Augmentation: $9,000-$10,000
  • Breast Augmentation with Full Lift: $12,000-$15,000
  • Breast Augmentation with Partial Lift: $11,000-$13,000
Disclaimer: Prices listed are average pricing. Prices vary depending on individual cases.
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Enjoying Your Final Results

Of course, you will notice the change to your breast profile immediately, but it will take several weeks or even several months before all the swelling subsides and the implants fall into their final correct position.

We will closely follow your postoperative recovery and are always available to answer any questions you have along the way. We’ll also schedule follow-up appointments to ensure that you’re healing nicely.

Burton M. Sundin, MD

Reps B. Sundin, MD

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Certified Skill, Working for You

Dr. Burton Sundin and Dr. Reps Sundin are highly experienced and extensively skilled, board-certified plastic surgeons who remain dedicated to offering each of their patients a truly individualized surgical experience. At the Virginia Institute of Plastic Surgery, located in Richmond and Northern Virginia, it is our priority to keep up with all the latest advances in both breast implant products and surgical techniques.  Your breast augmentation surgery will follow a treatment plan that was developed according to your individual goals, and we will ensure that you are well-versed in all your options and their implications for your results. To get started, reach out to our Northern Virginia or Richmond locations and speak with a helpful member of our team to set up your consultation today.

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Realize Your Cosmetic Goals at the Virginia Institute of Plastic Surgery

At the Virginia Institute of Plastic Surgery, with offices conveniently located in Richmond and Northern Virginia, our ultimate goal is to help you achieve naturally gorgeous results that reflect your inner beauty and vitality, while providing you with excellent medical care that maintains and supports your health and well-being.

Dr. Burton Sundin and Dr. Reps Sundin are both board-certified in plastic surgery, with extensive specialized training and decades of experience, enabling them to stay abreast of the latest advancements in cosmetic surgery and non-surgical rejuvenation procedures.

Their dedication to a powerful combination of cutting-edge techniques, open and honest communication, and a patient-centric philosophy is sure to maximize your safety and comfort.

If you are interested in breast augmentation in Richmond or would more information on any of our surgical or non-surgical procedures, we encourage you to contact the Virginia Institute of Plastic Surgery to schedule an appointment today. Your empowering cosmetic journey awaits.

Breast Augmentation FAQs

How long does breast augmentation surgery take?

What's the difference between saline and silicone implants?

When can I exercise or lift my arms again after surgery?

Will I need a breast lift in addition to augmentation?

How long do breast implants last?

Is breast augmentation covered by insurance?

How long does breast augmentation surgery take?

Breast augmentation typically takes one to two hours, depending on the implant type, placement, and whether it's combined with another procedure like a breast lift.

What's the difference between saline and silicone implants?

Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater and inserted empty before filling, while silicone implants are pre-filled with a cohesive silicone gel. Dr. Burton Sundin and Dr. Reps Sundin review the look, feel, and safety profile of both options during a private consultation to help patients decide which fits their goals.

When can I exercise or lift my arms again after surgery?

Most patients can resume light activity within a week and return to upper-body exercise around four to six weeks post-surgery, once cleared during a follow-up visit.

Will I need a breast lift in addition to augmentation?

Patients with noticeable sagging (ptosis) may benefit from combining augmentation with a lift for the best shape and position. This is evaluated during the consultation based on breast tissue and nipple position.

How long do breast implants last?

Most breast implants last 10 to 20 years, though many patients keep them well beyond that without issues. According to ASPS, replacement is typically driven by complications like rupture or capsular contracture rather than a fixed expiration date, and the FDA recommends regular monitoring, including periodic imaging for silicone implants.

Is breast augmentation covered by insurance?

Cosmetic breast augmentation is considered elective and typically isn't covered by insurance. Patients can review financing options, including CareCredit and other payment plans, during their consultation.

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