Breast Augmentation FAQs
Northern Virginia Plastic Surgeons

If you're considering breast augmentation in Northern Virginia or the Washington, DC area, chances are you've spent hours researching implant sizes, recovery, costs, and before-and-after photos. It's one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the country, but it's also one of the most personalized.

Every patient's anatomy, lifestyle, and aesthetic goals are different. The best breast augmentation isn't about choosing the biggest implant, but about creating breasts that look balanced, natural, and proportionate to your body.

Below are answers to the questions we hear most often from patients considering breast augmentation in Reston, Northern Virginia, and the Washington, DC metro area.

1. Am I a good candidate for breast augmentation?

You may be a good candidate if you:

• Feel your breasts are smaller than you'd like
• Have lost breast volume after pregnancy or weight loss
• Have naturally uneven breasts
• Want to improve your body proportions
• Are healthy, at a stable weight, and have realistic expectations

The best way to know if breast augmentation is right for you is through a consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons who can discuss your goals and evaluate your anatomy.

Related reading: Kylie Jenner's Breast Augmentation: What Is the Dual Plane Technique & Why Is Everyone Talking About It?

2. How do I choose the right implant size?

Choosing implant size isn't just about cup size, it involves balancing your desired look with your body's proportions.

During your consultation, we consider your:

• Your height and frame
• Chest width
• Existing breast tissue
• Skin elasticity
• Lifestyle and activity level
• Aesthetic goals

We have you try on implants or use Vectra (3D imaging technology) so you can preview different implant sizes on your body. 

3. Should I choose silicone or saline implants?

Both are excellent options.

Silicone implants

• Feel more like natural breast tissue
• Tend to have less visible rippling
• Are the most commonly chosen implant today

Saline implants

• Are filled after placement
• Require a slightly smaller incision
• Deflate noticeably if they rupture

For most patients, silicone implants provide the most natural appearance and feel.

4. Should my implants go over or under the muscle?

The "best" placement depends on your anatomy and goals.

Over the muscle (subglandular/subfascial)

• Faster recovery
• Less to no movement with chest muscle contraction
• Often ideal for patients with enough natural breast tissue

Under the muscle (dual plane/submuscular)

• Additional soft tissue coverage
• May reduce visible implant edges in thinner patients
• Often recommended for patients with very little natural breast tissue

Your surgeon will recommend the placement that provides the safest and most natural-looking result.

5. Will my breasts look natural?

Yes, when implant selection is matched to your anatomy.

Natural results come from choosing:

• The appropriate implant size
• The correct implant profile
• Proper implant placement
• A shape that complements your body

Today's implants allow patients to achieve subtle enhancement rather than an obviously augmented appearance.

6. Will I need a breast lift too?

Not everyone needs a breast lift.

If your nipples sit at or below the breast fold or you have significant loose skin, a breast lift (mastopexy) may be recommended in addition to implants.

An implant alone can restore volume, but it cannot correct significant breast sagging.

7. How painful is breast augmentation?

Most patients describe the discomfort as soreness or pressure rather than severe pain.

Pain is usually greatest during the first few days and improves steadily over the first week.

Many patients are surprised that recovery is easier than they expected.

8. How long is recovery?

Most patients can expect:

• Return home the same day
• Light walking immediately
• Return to desk work within a week
• Resume unrestricted activity around four to six weeks

Swelling gradually improves over several months as the implants settle into their final position.

9. Will breast implants affect mammograms?

You should continue routine breast cancer screening based on your age and risk factors.

Simply inform the imaging center that you have breast implants. Specialized mammogram views can usually be performed safely.

10. Can I breastfeed after breast augmentation?

Many women successfully breastfeed after breast augmentation.

While no surgery can guarantee future breastfeeding ability, breast augmentation alone generally does not prevent breastfeeding.

11. How long do breast implants last?

Breast implants are durable but are not considered lifetime devices.

Many patients enjoy their implants for 15–20 years or longer without problems.

Implants do not need to be replaced simply because a certain number of years has passed. They are generally exchanged only if:

• A rupture occurs
• Capsular contracture develops
• Implant position changes
• You desire a different size or shape

Regular follow-up and imaging, when appropriate, help monitor implant integrity.

12. What are the risks of breast augmentation?

Like any surgery, breast augmentation carries risks, including:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Changes in nipple sensation
• Implant rupture
• Capsular contracture
• Asymmetry

Fortunately, serious complications are uncommon when surgery is performed by an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon.

13. Will I have visible scars?

Breast augmentation scars are typically small and placed in discreet locations, most commonly within the fold beneath the breast.

Over time, scars usually fade significantly and become much less noticeable.

14. Can I exercise after surgery?

Walking is encouraged immediately after surgery.

More strenuous exercise is typically resumed gradually over several weeks, with heavy lifting and upper-body workouts delayed until your surgeon clears you.

Following postoperative instructions helps protect your results.

15. How do I know which surgeon to choose?

Choosing your plastic surgeon is one of the most important decisions you'll make.

Look for:

• Board certification in plastic surgery
• Extensive experience performing breast augmentation
• Consistent natural-looking results
• A thorough consultation process
• Before-and-after photos of patients with body types similar to yours
• Excellent patient reviews and communication

A great consultation should leave you feeling informed, comfortable, and confident. 

Related reading: What Is a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon? Why It Matters for Your Safety and Results

Final Thoughts

Breast augmentation is about much more than increasing breast size. The goal is to create balance, proportion, and confidence while achieving results that fit your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences.

Every patient is unique, and the best outcomes come from a personalized surgical plan rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. During your consultation, your surgeon can help you navigate implant options, sizing, placement, and recovery so you can make an informed decision with confidence.