The first step in Los Angeles breast augmentation surgery is an office consultation with a plastic surgeon. This appointment will include a physical examination and complete medical history. Photos and measurements of the breasts, chest and nipple position will be taken for surgical reference, and to provide a comparison for post-surgical results. Together, the surgeon and the patient will discuss the expectations of the procedure and desired size, then the implant material will be chosen.

There are two types of implant material to choose from; silicone or saline. In November, 2006, the FDA lifted a 14-year ban on silicone implants. New materials and safety considerations have been put in place to create a safer and more natural feeling silicone implant. They are comprised of a semi-solid silicone that substantially eliminates the concern of rupture and capsular contracture. Saline implants are constructed from a silicone elastomer and inserted into the chest empty. They are then filled with saline once correct placement is determined. The majority of implants used today are saline-filled.

Breast augmentation surgery in Los Angeles is an approximately one- to-two-hour procedure. The length of the surgery is determined by incision type, implant material and internal placement. The patient will be administered either general anesthesia or intravenous sedation for comfort. One of three types of incisions will be made in an inconspicuous area of the body. The three common types of incisions are inframammary, transaxillary and periareolar. Inframammary is an incision made just below the breast in the inframammary fold. Periareolar is an incision made along the border of the areola. Transaxillary approach a cut in the armpit, and the implant is moved medially to the breast area. Transaxillary incisions create no scarring of the breast area.

Once the incision is made, the implant is placed in an internal space created by the surgeon. Depending on the type and size of the implant it will be placed either submuscular or subglandular. Submuscular placement is under the pectoral muscle of the chest. Subglandular or submammary is an implant placed directly behind the tissue of the breast and over the pectoral muscle. Following placement, the tissue is closed with sutures in layers, and the skin is closed with adhesive or surgical tape. Recovery time varies from one to two weeks and up to six weeks for submuscular placement. Scarring will begin to fade after several months.