Plastic Surgery San Diego, CA

Small Breast Augmentation

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Small Breast Augmentation with Dr. Shumway | San Diego, CA

Breast augmentation is often associated with dramatic transformations, but not every woman desires a large, voluminous change. For many, the goal is subtle, natural enhancement that boosts confidence and restores balance to their figure. This is where small breast augmentation comes in—a procedure that focuses on achieving a modest increase in breast size, enhancing natural contours while maintaining a harmonious, proportionate look. At Shumway Cosmetic Surgery, small breast augmentation is approached with an eye for detail and a deep respect for individuality. Dr. Robert Shumway has decades of surgical experience and is known for delivering beautifully subtle results that align with each patient’s natural proportions and personal goals. If you’re considering small breast augmentation in La Jolla, San Diego, Del Mar, Solana Beach, Encinitas, Carlsbad, or anywhere throughout Southern California, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Shumway to discuss how this procedure can help you achieve the subtle enhancement you desire.

Small Breast Augmentation Ideal Candidates

San Diego small breast augmentation surgery is suitable for women who:
  • Want a modest change: Those who desire a natural, subtle enhancement, rather than a dramatic increase in size.
  • Have a small breast size: Women with naturally small breasts who feel self-conscious about their size but want to maintain a proportional appearance.
  • Have lost breast volume: Whether due to pregnancy, weight loss, or aging, women who want to restore their breasts’ fullness can benefit from small implants.
  • Desire symmetry: Women with asymmetrical breasts or slight volume differences can use small implants to correct imbalances.
  • Are in good health: Like any surgery, it’s important to be in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the results.
During your consultation with Dr. Shumway, he will evaluate your goals and anatomy to determine if small breast augmentation is the right approach for your desired enhancement.

Benefits of Small Breast Augmentation

Small breast augmentation offers numerous advantages for women seeking subtle enhancement without dramatic change:
  • Natural, Balanced Appearance: The primary benefit of small breast augmentation is achieving a natural, balanced look. By using smaller implants, the results are more in harmony with the individual’s body type and proportions. This subtle approach allows for a modest increase in size without an overly dramatic or exaggerated outcome.
  • Restoring Volume and Symmetry: A small breast augmentation can help restore volume lost due to factors like pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, or aging. It can also correct asymmetry, where one breast is slightly smaller than the other, leading to a more even and aesthetically pleasing result.
  • Minimal Scarring: Like traditional breast augmentation, small breast augmentation involves an incision to insert the implants. However, due to the more conservative nature of the procedure, the incision can be placed in discreet locations (around the areola, under the breast, or in the armpit). As a result, the scars are often smaller and less noticeable, particularly with the smaller implant sizes used.
  • Lower Risk of Complications: Since the implants are smaller, there is generally less pressure on the surrounding tissue and skin, which can lead to a lower risk of complications, such as capsular contracture (hardening of the tissue around the implant) or implant displacement. Smaller implants also tend to have a more natural feel and appearance.
  • Faster Recovery: With smaller implants, the surgery tends to be less invasive, and recovery time is often quicker than with larger implants. Many women report feeling comfortable enough to resume light activities within a few days to a week, with full recovery occurring within 3 to 4 weeks.
  • Increased Confidence Without Drastic Change: For women who are looking to enhance their body image subtly, small breast augmentation offers a boost in confidence without altering their overall appearance drastically. Whether for personal or aesthetic reasons, this procedure can make a big difference without making you feel “too different” from your natural self.

Small Breast Augmentation – What to Expect

When you choose small breast augmentation with Dr. Shumway, here’s what you can expect throughout the process:
  • Consultation: Your journey begins with a thorough consultation where Dr. Shumway will listen to your goals, assess your anatomy, and discuss the various options for implant size, type, and placement. You’ll have the opportunity to try on sizers to visualize how different implant volumes might look on your frame.
  • Procedure: Small breast augmentation is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes approximately 1-2 hours. Dr. Shumway will make discreet incisions (either around the areola, under the breast fold, in the armpit, or potentially through the navel using the TUBA technique), create a pocket for the implant, and carefully position it for optimal results.
  • Recovery: One of the advantages of small breast augmentation is the typically faster recovery time. Most patients can return to light activities within a few days and resume normal activities within 1-2 weeks. You may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort initially, but these symptoms generally subside quickly with smaller implants.
  • Results: While you’ll notice an immediate change in your breast size, the final results will develop over several weeks as swelling subsides and the implants settle into their natural position. With small implants, many women appreciate how quickly they adapt to their new figure, often feeling that the results look and feel like a natural part of their body.
  • Long-term Care: Dr. Shumway will provide detailed instructions for long-term implant care and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress. Small implants typically maintain their shape and position well over time, with many women enjoying their results for 10-20 years before considering replacement.
At Shumway Cosmetic Surgery, we prioritize your comfort, safety, and satisfaction throughout every stage of your small breast augmentation journey. Our experienced team is always available to answer questions and provide support as you heal and adjust to your enhanced figure.

Small Breast Augmentation San Diego – FAQ’s

What size implants are considered 'small' for breast augmentation?

Small breast implants typically range from 150cc to 300cc. The exact size depends on your body type, desired outcome, and the recommendations of your surgeon. A small implant should create a natural, balanced appearance without feeling or looking out of proportion with your frame. During your consultation, Dr. Shumway will help you determine the ideal size based on your unique anatomy and aesthetic goals.

Will small breast augmentation still give me a fuller, more youthful appearance?

Yes! Even a small increase in breast volume can make a significant difference in your appearance, creating a fuller, more youthful silhouette. Small implants can provide enhanced cleavage, improved breast shape, and better proportion with your body frame. Many women are surprised by how much of a positive impact even a modest enhancement can have on their clothing fit and overall body confidence.

Can I achieve a natural look with small implants?

Absolutely! Smaller implants are often used to achieve the most natural results. When choosing smaller implants, it’s easier to create a smooth, natural contour that complements your body shape without the obvious “augmented” appearance that can come with larger sizes. Many women seeking a subtle change are thrilled with the natural look and feel that smaller implants provide. Dr. Shumway specializes in creating results that enhance your natural beauty rather than transforming it completely.

Are there risks associated with small breast augmentation?

As with any surgery, there are risks involved, such as infection, implant rupture, or changes in nipple sensation. However, the risks associated with small breast augmentation are generally lower due to the smaller size of the implants and the less invasive nature of the procedure. The risk of complications like capsular contracture (hardening of tissue around the implant) and implant displacement or visibility is also minimized with smaller implants. Dr. Shumway’s experience and meticulous surgical technique further reduce these risks for his patients.

What is the recovery time for small breast augmentation?

Recovery times can vary from person to person, but many patients are able to return to light activities within a week or two. Full recovery typically takes 3 to 4 weeks, with most patients feeling fully healed by then. Since smaller implants often involve less tissue disruption, the recovery process tends to be faster and easier than with larger implants. Dr. Shumway provides detailed post-operative instructions to ensure optimal healing and comfort during your recovery period.

Will small breast augmentation affect my ability to breastfeed?

In most cases, small breast augmentation will not interfere with breastfeeding. Surgeons generally place the implants beneath the breast tissue or chest muscle, which avoids interfering with milk-producing glands and ducts. Additionally, smaller implants typically cause less disruption to the breast tissue overall. If you’re planning to have children in the future, it’s important to discuss your breastfeeding plans with Dr. Shumway before the procedure so he can recommend the most appropriate surgical technique.

How long do small breast implants last?

Small breast implants, like all implants, are not designed to last a lifetime. On average, implants can last between 10 and 20 years, but they may need to be replaced or removed earlier if complications arise or if you wish to change the size. Small implants may have a slight advantage in longevity as they create less stress on surrounding tissues. Regular check-ups with Dr. Shumway can help monitor the condition of your implants and address any concerns before they become significant issues.

How do I choose the right implant size for a small breast augmentation?

Choosing the right size implant for your body is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Dr. Shumway will consider your body type, breast anatomy, tissue characteristics, and desired outcome when helping you select the ideal size. During your consultation, you’ll have the opportunity to try on sizers, which are temporary implants that you can insert in a specially designed bra. This hands-on approach helps you visualize how different implant volumes will look on your unique frame and allows you to make a confident, informed decision.

Can I combine small breast augmentation with other procedures?

Yes, small breast augmentation can be effectively combined with other cosmetic procedures for comprehensive enhancement. Common combinations include breast lift (to address sagging), liposuction (to contour surrounding areas), or as part of a mommy makeover (which may include tummy tuck and other body contouring procedures). Combining procedures can be a convenient way to address multiple concerns with a single recovery period. Dr. Shumway will evaluate whether combining procedures is appropriate for your specific situation and goals.

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Average Procedure Time
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Procedure Recovery Location
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Small breast augmentation offers women a way to subtly enhance their appearance without undergoing a major transformation. By opting for smaller implants, you can achieve a natural, balanced look that enhances your body’s proportions while boosting your self-esteem. Whether you’re restoring volume lost after pregnancy or simply seeking a more feminine contour, small breast augmentation provides a personalized, low-risk option for women who prefer a subtle enhancement. If you’re considering small breast implants, the best first step is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Shumway. He can help guide you through the decision-making process, answer all your questions, and ensure that the results meet your expectations for a beautiful and natural outcome. Call (858) 587-2640 or contact us online today to get started.

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