Breast Augmentation
Medically Reviewed by Dr. W. Tracy Hankins, MD, FACS, and Dr. Samuel M. Sohn, MD
Last Updated: October 1, 2026
Breast Augmentation enhances breast size, shape, and volume using implants or fat transfer, customized to each patient’s goals. Our board-certified plastic surgeons offer silicone, saline, and gummy bear implant options, with a focus on natural-looking, lasting results and physician-led safety at every step.
A Breast Augmentation Specialist’s Approach to Natural Results
Your results should look like you, only more confident. Dr. Hankins and Dr. Sohn built their practice around Breast Augmentation specifically, and that focus shows in the details, from implant selection to incision placement to a surgical plan built around your body rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Patients throughout Las Vegas and Henderson choose Hankins & Sohn for that specialized attention, and if a different implant size or technique would serve you better, your Plastic Surgeon will tell you so at your consultation.
- What Is Breast Augmentation?
- Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation?
- What Are My Breast Implant Options?
- What Happens During Breast Augmentation Surgery?
- What Is Recovery Like After Breast Augmentation?
- How Do I Maintain My Results Long-Term?
- Why Should I Choose Hankins & Sohn for Breast Augmentation?
- What Do Our Patients Say?
- What Do Real Results Look Like?
- What Are the Risks of Breast Augmentation?
- What Happens at a Breast Augmentation Consultation?
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast Augmentation is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to enhance breast size, shape, and volume using breast implants or fat transfer techniques. This popular procedure helps women achieve their aesthetic goals by addressing concerns such as naturally small breast size, asymmetry, or volume loss following pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Breast Augmentation remains the most popular cosmetic surgical procedure in the United States, with more than 300,000 procedures performed annually, according to the ASPS 2024 report.
Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation?
With over 30 years of combined experience, our board-certified plastic surgeons look for the following in ideal candidates for Breast Augmentation:
- Age 18 or older for saline implants, 22 or older for silicone implants, per FDA guidelines
- No upper age limit; skin quality, physical health, and personal goals guide candidacy above the minimum age
- Good overall health with realistic expectations
- A stable weight for at least six months
- Completed breast development with no plans for immediate pregnancy
- Non-smokers, or willing to quit smoking before and after surgery
- Adequate breast tissue to support implant placement
- An understanding of the recovery process and post-op care requirements
What Are My Breast Implant Options?
Silicone Implants
Silicone gel implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel that closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. These implants offer:
- A natural feel and movement
- A lower risk of visible rippling
- A variety of shapes and sizes
- Excellent long-term results
Saline Implants
Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water and offer several advantages:
- A smaller incision required for insertion
- An adjustable fill volume during surgery
- Safe absorption if a rupture occurs
- A simpler profile compared to silicone
Gummy Bear Implants
Form-stable silicone implants, often called “gummy bear” implants, maintain their shape even if the outer shell is damaged:
- Maintains breast shape over time
- Reduced risk of capsular contracture
- A natural teardrop shape available
- Highly cohesive silicone gel for durability
Material and shell type also influence complication risk, including capsular contracture and rippling, per outcomes research. Your Plastic Surgeon will help you weigh these factors against your goals.
What Happens During Breast Augmentation Surgery?
The Breast Augmentation procedure typically takes one to two hours in an AAAASF or AAAHC accredited surgery center, and we only use physician anesthesiologists to support your safety throughout.
Most patients receive their implant through one of two incisions. An inframammary incision, placed in the natural breast fold, is the most common approach and works well for larger implants. A periareolar incision, placed around the areola border, leaves a well-concealed scar and suits moderate-sized increases, though it may affect nipple sensitivity slightly more than the inframammary approach.
Surgery follows these steps:
- Anesthesia administration
- Incision placement according to your surgical plan
- Pocket creation for implant placement
- Implant insertion and positioning
- Incision closure with dissolvable sutures
- Post-surgery monitoring in our recovery area
What Is Recovery Like After Breast Augmentation?
First Week Post-Surgery
- Rest and limited activity are recommended
- Pain medication as prescribed
- A surgical bra worn continuously
- A follow-up appointment scheduled within 24 to 48 hours
Weeks 2-4
- A gradual return to normal activities
- Light exercise may be permitted
- Continued swelling reduction
- Scar care instructions provided
Months 2-6
- Full activity clearance is typically given at six to eight weeks
- Final results become apparent
- Regular follow-up appointments at three, six, and 12 months
- Long-term care education
Many patients return to work within one to two weeks following surgery, with full recovery achieved within six to eight weeks.
*Your treatment plan at Hankins & Sohn Plastic Surgery Associates will be customized to meet your needs and your individual experience will vary depending on a number of factors. All information provided on this page is an estimate of typical time and cost and does not represent an offer or guarantee of pricing or availability. Please schedule a consultation appointment to discuss which options may apply to you.
How Do I Maintain My Results Long-Term?
Regular Follow-Up Care
- Annual check-ups with your Plastic Surgeon
- Routine mammograms as recommended, coordinated with radiology centers
- Self-examination techniques, with detailed instructions provided
- Professional monitoring of implant integrity
Lifestyle Considerations
- Maintaining a stable weight to preserve results
- Wearing supportive bras during exercise
- Protecting the area from sun exposure during healing
- Following post-surgery guidelines long-term
Breast implants are not lifetime devices and typically last 10 to 20 years or longer with proper care, per monitoring guidelines research. We provide lifetime follow-up care for all our Breast Augmentation patients.
Why Should I Choose Hankins & Sohn for Breast Augmentation?
We are the premier plastic surgery practice in the Las Vegas valley, delivering world-class surgical results with compassionate, personalized care. With over 30 years of combined experience, our board-certified plastic surgeons are widely respected for their expertise in Breast Augmentation, and we only use physician anesthesiologists to support your safety throughout every procedure.
Dr. W. Tracy Hankins, MD, FACS
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon | More Than 25 Years of Experience
- Board Certification: Diplomate, American Board of Plastic Surgery
- Professional Memberships: Member, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
- Specializations: Breast Augmentation, facial rejuvenation, body contouring
- Widely regarded as an expert in Breast Augmentation, and a frequent consultant, trainer, and media resource on aesthetic surgery
“Breast Augmentation isn’t just about increasing size. It’s about creating harmony and proportion that enhances a woman’s natural beauty and confidence.” – Dr. Hankins
Dr. Samuel M. Sohn, MD
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon | Fellowship-Trained
- Board Certification: Diplomate, American Board of Plastic Surgery
- Professional Memberships: Member, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
- Specializations: Breast aesthetics, body contouring, liposuction, and facial rejuvenation
“Every patient is unique, and I believe in taking the time to understand each patient’s individual goals and concerns. This personalized approach ensures the best possible outcomes.” – Dr. Sohn
What Do Our Patients Say?
“Dr. Sohn is amazing at what he does! I got a Breast Augmentation done, and he was so informative and patient with all my questions. He did an incredible job, and I couldn’t be happier with the results.”
– Emily, J.
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“When I went to see Dr. Hankins for a Breast Augmentation, I wanted something that looked very natural. I had already seen three other doctors, but Dr. Hankins was highly recommended to me by people who had their surgery done by him. I even met with him several times before making my decision, and I do not regret it at all. Every question I had was answered, which made me feel confident every step of the way. I am very happy with the results and definitely recommend this place.”
– Michael, S.
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“From the moment I walked into his practice, I immediately felt comfortable. Dr. Hankins asked what my goals were for my procedure, thoroughly explained the pros and cons of different sizes, and suggested what would be best for my body type. He genuinely listens and tailors the result to make you happy. Dr. Hankins is highly knowledgeable and skilled at his work. I was confident going into surgery, and the results are above and beyond my expectations. I highly recommend Dr. Hankins to anyone wanting a Breast Augmentation, or any procedure he performs.”
– Christina, M.
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“Dr. Sohn is amazing! I interviewed another surgeon before for my Breast Augmentation, and it was an immediate no for me. I’m so glad I found Dr. Sohn. He is a great listener and gave me so much useful information about the procedure. I’m 16 days post-op, and I’m already so happy with how they look. Such a talented surgeon. I’m so grateful I found this practice.”
– Gabbie.
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What Do Real Results Look Like?
Your plastic surgeon is dedicated to delivering Breast Augmentation results that are personalized to your expectations. We will work with you to understand your vision and deliver natural-looking results, as subtle or dramatic as you desire.
What Are the Risks of Breast Augmentation?
Breast Augmentation is generally safe when performed by board-certified plastic surgeons. Potential risks, per outcomes research, include:
- Infection
- Capsular contracture
- Implant rupture or leakage
- Changes in nipple sensation
- Asymmetry or positioning issues
- The need for revision surgery
Your Plastic Surgeon minimizes these risks through meticulous surgical technique and comprehensive post-op care.
What Happens at a Breast Augmentation Consultation?
Your Breast Augmentation journey begins with a comprehensive consultation, where your Plastic Surgeon will:
- Review your medical history and current medications
- Evaluate your breast anatomy and chest measurements
- Discuss your aesthetic goals and desired breast size
- Explain implant options and surgical techniques
- Review before-and-after photos of similar cases
- Discuss the recovery process and post-op care
- Walk through your financing options
“Every patient is unique, and I believe in taking the time to understand each patient’s individual goals and concerns. This personalized approach ensures the best possible outcomes,” notes Dr. Sohn, who is fellowship-trained in plastic surgery and has nearly 20 years of specialized experience.
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Breast Augmentation Results
Dr. Hankins and Dr. Sohn are dedicated to delivering breast augmentation results that are personalized to meet each patient’s expectations. We will work with you to understand your vision and deliver natural-looking results that are as subtle or dramatic as you desire.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I combine other treatments with Breast Augmentation?
Yes. Breast Augmentation can be combined with breast lift surgery, tummy tuck, liposuction, body contouring, and facelift surgery. When multiple areas are addressed together, these combination procedures are often called a Mommy Makeover, providing comprehensive rejuvenation with a single recovery period.
How do I know if my implants need to be replaced?
There is no fixed replacement schedule. Your Plastic Surgeon typically recommends periodic imaging starting five to six years after surgery and every two to three years after that, per monitoring guidelines research, to check for rupture or other changes even if you have no symptoms. Signs that may call for a closer look sooner include a change in shape, firmness, size, or persistent discomfort.
When can I resume chest and upper-body workouts specifically?
General light activity can typically resume within two to three weeks, but chest-focused exercise, such as push-ups, bench presses, or heavy lifting, usually needs to wait longer, often six weeks or more, since these movements directly engage the muscle beneath the implant. Your Plastic Surgeon will confirm timing based on your implant placement and healing progress.
How do I choose the right implant shape and size?
Every patient’s body and goals are unique. Choosing the right implant size and type takes into account your personal preferences, anatomic indicators, and desired outcome. Your Plastic Surgeon will help you determine which style is most likely to deliver the results you are looking for, including fat grafting as an option for a natural-looking appearance and feel.
Which implant placement provides the most natural appearance?
Breast implants can be placed above or below the chest muscle, depending on your anatomical needs and aesthetic goals. The size, shape, and composition of the implant play a role in which placement is selected, as does the volume of existing breast tissue, the new breast pocket created on the chest wall, and skin quality. Your Plastic Surgeon considers each of these factors to select the most natural-looking placement for you.
Can I still breastfeed after Breast Augmentation?
Many women who have Breast Augmentation go on to breastfeed without difficulty. When performed by a skilled surgeon, Breast Augmentation should not affect a woman’s ability to nurse if she was able to do so before the procedure, according to a breastfeeding meta-analysis. Your Plastic Surgeon can tailor your treatment plan to minimize impact to the mammary glands if you know you may want to breastfeed in the future.
Do implants interfere with mammograms?
Mammograms can be performed effectively on breasts with implants, including both saline and silicone styles. A qualified radiologist will adjust the technique to provide the best care, and in some cases may recommend an MRI if the implant obstructs the view of breast tissue, per monitoring guidelines research. Always let your radiologist know you have implants before your mammogram so they can prepare accordingly.
Do I need to worry about Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL)?
BIA-ALCL is a rare cancer that develops near breast implants, with reported estimates ranging as low as one in 30,000 cases, per a BIA-ALCL epidemiology review. Most cases occur in patients with textured implants. BIA-ALCL is not breast cancer. It is a cancer of the immune system that arises in the scar tissue, or capsule, around the implant.
Will I have scars after Breast Augmentation, and do they fade?
Yes, Breast Augmentation results in visible scars. Of the two most common incisions, the inframammary scar is the least noticeable, since it sits in the natural breast fold, while the periareolar scar is slightly smaller but sits at the edge of the areola. Most scars mature and lighten considerably over the first year, per outcomes research, and your Plastic Surgeon can recommend scar care to support that process.
What financing options are available for Breast Augmentation?
We partner with CareCredit®, ALPHAEON™ CREDIT, and Prosper Healthcare Lending to help make Breast Augmentation more accessible. Learn more on our financing page.
Contact Us
We understand you might have many questions about Breast Augmentation, and we are here to help. Our board-certified plastic surgeons welcome patients throughout Las Vegas and Henderson, and financing options are available to help make your procedure more accessible.
1 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. 2024 Plastic Surgery Statistics Report. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/news/statistics/2024/plastic-surgery-statistics-report-2024.pdf. Accessed October 1, 2026.
2 FDA. Things to Consider Before Getting Breast Implants. https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/breast-implants/things-consider-getting-breast-implants. Accessed October 1, 2026.
3 Schiff, M, et al. The impact of cosmetic breast implants on breastfeeding: a systematic review and meta-analysis. International Breastfeeding Journal 2014; 9: 17. https://doi.org/10.1186/1746-4358-9-17
4 Meretsky, CR, Knecht, EM, Schiuma, AT. Advantages and Disadvantages of Breast Augmentation: Surgical Techniques, Outcomes and Future Directions. Cureus 2024; 16(9): e69846. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.69846
5 Ho, IW, Chichura, A, Pederson, HJ, Xavier, BA, Ritner, J, Schwarz, GS. Current State of Evidence-Based Long-Term Monitoring Protocols for Breast Plastic Surgery Patients. Annals of Surgical Oncology 2024; 31(12). https://doi.org/10.1245/s10434-024-16003-3
6 Lynch, EB, DeCoster, RC, Vyas, KS, Rinker, BD, Yang, M, Vasconez, HC, Clemens, MW. Current risk of breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma: a systematic review of epidemiological studies. Annals of Breast Surgery 2021; 5: 30. https://doi.org/10.21037/abs-20-96
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This content has either been authored or reviewed and approved by the doctors at Hankins & Sohn Plastic Surgery Associates.