Breast Augmentation
Natural, proportionate enhancement tailored to your anatomy with Dr. Chen's artistic precision and 3D sizing technology.
The Procedure
What Is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that enhances breast size, shape, and symmetry using implants or, in select cases, fat transfer. It remains one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the country for a reason: when performed by a skilled surgeon, the results look and feel entirely natural.
Dr. Chen approaches breast augmentation as a collaboration between surgeon and patient. Your anatomy, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences all inform the surgical plan. The goal is never simply “bigger” -- it is a result that looks like it has always belonged to your body.
3D Sizing
Vectra Imaging
Your Options
Implant Types & Placement
Every decision is tailored to your anatomy, tissue characteristics, and desired outcome.
Silicone vs. Saline
Silicone gel implants offer the most natural feel, closely mimicking breast tissue. Available in smooth and textured shells, they are the most popular choice among Dr. Chen's patients.
Saline implants are filled during surgery, allowing fine-tuned volume adjustment. They require a smaller incision and provide peace of mind since any leak is harmlessly absorbed by the body.
Gummy bear (form-stable) implants maintain their shape even if the shell is compromised, offering a firmer, more sculpted profile for patients seeking defined upper-pole fullness.
Round vs. Anatomical Shape
Round implants provide symmetrical fullness and a soft lift in the upper pole. Because they are the same shape in all orientations, there is no risk of visible rotation -- making them an extremely reliable choice.
Anatomical (teardrop) implants are shaped to mirror the natural breast slope with more fullness at the bottom and a gradual taper toward the top, ideal for patients seeking a subtle, understated enhancement.
Dr. Chen will guide you to the shape that best complements your natural tissue, chest wall, and aesthetic vision during your 3D imaging session.
Incision Options
Inframammary (breast fold) -- the most common approach, offering Dr. Chen the greatest precision and control. The scar hides within the natural crease beneath the breast.
Periareolar (around the areola) -- the incision follows the border between the areola and surrounding skin, blending seamlessly as it heals.
Transaxillary (armpit) -- a scar-free option on the breast itself. The implant is placed through a small incision in the natural armpit crease, guided by endoscopic visualization.
Placement Options
Submuscular (under the muscle) -- the implant sits beneath the pectoral muscle, providing additional tissue coverage for a more natural slope. This is Dr. Chen's preferred approach for most patients, as it reduces the risk of visible implant edges and supports more accurate mammography readings.
Subglandular (over the muscle) -- the implant is placed directly behind the breast tissue. This option offers a shorter recovery and avoids animation deformity. It is best suited for patients with adequate natural tissue coverage.
Dual-plane -- a hybrid approach that partially releases the lower pectoral muscle for patients who need the benefits of both techniques.
Ideal Candidates
Is Breast Augmentation Right for You?
Artistry & Precision
Dr. Chen's Approach
Dr. Chen treats breast augmentation as an art form. His background in sculpture and visual proportion informs every measurement, every implant selection, and every surgical decision. He evaluates your chest width, breast base diameter, tissue thickness, and skin elasticity to determine the implant that will create the most harmonious result.
Using Vectra 3D imaging technology, you will see a realistic simulation of your projected results before committing to surgery. This eliminates the guesswork and ensures you and Dr. Chen are perfectly aligned on size, shape, and projection.
Your Journey
Procedure Step by Step
Consultation & 3D Imaging
A 60-to-90-minute consultation where Dr. Chen examines your anatomy, discusses your aesthetic goals, and uses Vectra 3D imaging to simulate your projected results with different implant sizes and profiles.
Implant Selection & Surgical Planning
Together you will select your implant type, size, shape, incision location, and placement pocket. Dr. Chen creates a detailed surgical blueprint customized to your measurements and tissue characteristics.
Pre-Operative Preparation
Pre-operative labs, a medical clearance review, and a detailed set of instructions to follow in the two weeks leading up to surgery. You will know exactly what to expect.
Surgery Day
Performed in our private AAAHC-accredited surgical suite under general anesthesia. The procedure typically takes one to two hours. Dr. Chen uses the Keller Funnel no-touch technique for optimal implant placement and reduced infection risk.
Recovery & Follow-Up
You will receive Dr. Chen's personal cell phone number. Follow-up appointments at one week, one month, three months, and one year ensure your recovery stays on track and your results settle beautifully.
What to Expect
Recovery Timeline
Rest & Recover
Moderate soreness and swelling. Prescription pain management keeps you comfortable. Rest at home with limited arm movement. Most patients describe the discomfort as tightness rather than sharp pain.
Light Activity
Swelling begins to subside. Many patients feel well enough to handle light household tasks and short walks. Most desk-job patients return to work by day five to seven.
Gradual Return
Bruising fades, sensitivity normalizes. You can resume driving and most daily activities. Light lower-body exercise is cleared at three weeks. Implants begin settling into a natural position.
Full Activity
Upper-body exercise and full gym routines resume at six weeks. The implants continue to settle and soften over the following months. Final shape and position are typically achieved by three to six months.
Real Results
Before & After
Drag the slider to reveal transformations. Each result reflects Dr. Chen's commitment to natural, proportionate outcomes.
Silicone, submuscular -- 6 months post-op
Saline, dual-plane -- 4 months post-op
Silicone with lift -- 8 months post-op
Individual results may vary. Photos used with patient consent.
Investment
Breast Augmentation Pricing
$6,000 – $10,000
Pricing varies based on implant type, surgical technique, and anesthesia requirements. All quotes include surgeon fees, facility fees, anesthesia, and post-operative care.
Advanced Technology
Vectra 3D Sizing
Choosing the right implant size is one of the most important decisions in breast augmentation. Dr. Chen uses the Vectra 3D imaging system to capture a detailed scan of your torso and generate lifelike simulations of how different implant sizes, profiles, and shapes will look on your body.
You can rotate the 3D model, compare side-by-side options, and see your projected results from every angle before committing. This technology gives patients tremendous confidence and virtually eliminates size-related regret.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Silicone implants feel remarkably similar to natural breast tissue -- soft, supple, and smooth to the touch. Saline implants can sometimes feel slightly firmer and, in thinner patients, may produce visible rippling. During your consultation, Dr. Chen will have you hold both types so you can feel the difference firsthand and choose the option that aligns with your aesthetic goals.
Modern breast implants are not considered lifetime devices, but they are exceptionally durable. Most patients can expect 10 to 20 years before considering a replacement. Dr. Chen recommends routine imaging every few years to monitor implant integrity, and many patients go well beyond the 15-year mark without any issues.
The majority of breast augmentation patients are able to breastfeed successfully. Dr. Chen uses techniques that preserve the milk ducts and nerves essential to lactation. The periareolar incision carries a slightly higher risk to breastfeeding function compared to the inframammary approach, which is one reason many patients opt for the fold incision.
Scarring is minimal and strategically placed to remain concealed. The inframammary incision hides within the natural breast fold, the periareolar incision blends into the areolar border, and the transaxillary incision sits within a natural armpit crease. Dr. Chen also provides a detailed scar-care protocol with medical-grade silicone sheeting to optimize healing.
Most patients take five to seven days off work and feel comfortable returning to light daily activities within that window. Swelling and sensitivity peak around days three through five and steadily subside. Light exercise can resume at three weeks, and full activity -- including upper-body workouts -- is typically cleared by six weeks. Final results settle over three to six months as the implants drop into their natural position.
Dr. Chen uses Vectra 3D imaging to simulate different sizes on your actual anatomy before surgery. You will also try on implant sizers in a sports bra during your consultation. The goal is never a cup size -- it is a proportionate, natural result that complements your frame, chest width, and tissue coverage. Most patients find that the 3D simulation eliminates guesswork entirely.
Begin your breast
augmentation journey.
Schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Chen to discuss implant options, review 3D imaging of your projected results, and receive a customized surgical plan tailored to your anatomy and aesthetic goals.
