Awake Breast Augmentation
Conveniently located to serve the areas of New Jersey
find out everything about your awake breast augmentation options
In both New Jersey and New York City, Dr. Michael Gartner is one of the most sought-after double-board-certified plastic surgeons and has helped thousands of patients throughout the world improve their lives and achieve their dream results.
- Meet Dr. Michael Gartner, a double board-certified Plastic Surgeon with over 15 years of experience helping people achieve their aesthetic goals, here in New York City. The medical director of Gartner Plastic Surgery and Laser Center, his vision is to ensure that every client loves how they look, loves how they feel, and that their positive transformation experience surpasses their expectations.
- Uniquely positioned because of his extensive general and Plastic Surgery knowledge, Dr Gartner can achieve the desired results through the most innovative, safe, and least invasive methods.
- Gartner Plastic Surgery and Laser Spa Center has three convenient New York locations to cater to every cosmetic need. The state-of-the-art, Paramus New Jersey, surgical center is fully accredited. Meticulously outfitted with the most advanced operating room equipment and technology, the clean, modern atmosphere puts patients at ease.
Contents
- 1 Before and After Photos
- 2 Surgery Guide
- 3 Choosing The Right Surgeon
- 4 Benefits
- 5 Procedure Details
- 6 Traveling For Surgery
- 7 Why Choose Awake Breast Augmentation
- 8 Anesthesia Options
- 9 More Benefits
- 10 FAQ
- 10.1 WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION?
- 10.2 HOW IS AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION PERFORMED?
- 10.3 IS AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION A SAFE PROCEDURE?
- 10.4 DOES AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION CAUSE ANY PAIN OR DISCOMFORT?
- 10.5 WHAT TYPE OF ANESTHESIA IS USED DURING AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION?
- 10.6 WHAT IS THE RECOVERY PROCESS LIKE AFTER AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION?
- 10.7 ARE THERE ANY RESTRICTIONS OR LIMITATIONS AFTER UNDERGOING AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION?
- 10.8 CAN I ACHIEVE THE SAME RESULTS WITH AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION AS WITH TRADITIONAL BREAST AUGMENTATION?
- 10.9 HOW LONG DO THE RESULTS OF AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION LAST?
- 10.10 HOW DO I DETERMINE IF AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION IS THE RIGHT OPTION FOR ME?
- 10.11 WILL I BE ABLE TO FEEL ANY PAIN OR DISCOMFORT DURING AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION?
- 10.12 HOW LONG DOES AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION SURGERY USUALLY TAKE?
- 10.13 WILL I NEED DRAINS AFTER AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION SURGERY?
- 10.14 CAN I BREASTFEED AFTER HAVING AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION?
- 10.15 WHEN CAN I START WEARING UNDERWIRE BRAS AFTER AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION?
Before and After Photos
Surgery Guide
Choosing The Right Surgeon
Choosing an experienced and properly educated plastic surgeon is one of the most important aspects of your surgical process.
Numerous doctors call themselves “plastic surgeons” but are not trained in plastic surgery. As a result, they come from a wide range of medical specialties and have completed a short training program in liposuction, breast augmentation, and other procedures. Therefore a certificate of completion is awarded to those who complete the course, allowing them to perform these treatments in their clinics with little or no previous training.
As a result, they created their credentials, such as the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery and the American Board of Facial Plastic Surgery. Only one board is recognized by the American Board of Specialties, and that is the American Board of Plastic Surgery. For this reason, while you are conducting your research on the kind of plastic surgeon you want, this is a consideration that you absolutely cannot overlook.
As part of an experienced and properly educated surgeon, The American Board of Plastic Surgery requires a difficult written and oral test in addition to a long residency in plastic surgery before a candidate may become board-certified.
The American Board of Plastic Surgery requires that you practice for two years after passing the test the first time. In certain areas, a hospital certification is necessary, as well as an office-based procedure.
Learn MoreDue to the lack of training from some of these plastic surgeons, hospitals will not provide privileges to these non-core plastic surgeons. This is because they mostly do these procedures in their own office and that most offices aren’t licensed fully. However, this is governed by the laws of your jurisdiction.
Benefits
- No nausea or vomiting
- No urinary retention, unable to urinate after anesthesia needing catheterization.
- No bucking on ET tube/ sore throat
- Less preoperative tests
- Clear-headed after surgery
- Just get up and go home, like a dental visit
- No medication change or fast before
- You can have a light breakfast and coffee before the procedure
- Minimal local injection pain
- The patient gets cleared instruction from the surgeon during surgery to decrease complications
- No hospital admission
- No need for DVT prophylaxis
- Get to know and talk to your surgeon during the case
- All anesthesiologists agree that less sedation is safer sedation. The safest sedation is no sedation
Procedure Details
Awake breast augmentation is a surgical treatment that reshapes and resizes a woman’s breasts to better suit her desired goals without the risk of general anesthesia’s effects. To sedate a patient during a surgical procedure, plastic surgeons have traditionally depended on general anesthetic medicines like propofol.
Patients may now choose between having the surgery done under general anesthesia or having it done awake, owing to Dr. Gartner’s unique method. Thanks to his expert ability and understanding, Dr. Gartner has worked hard to create a safer, more beneficial way for his patients. The awake method is an excellent choice for individuals who are reluctant or unable to undergo general anesthesia.
Dr. Gartner utilizes local anesthetic to successfully block pain receptors and mask any sensation in what is now referred to as “awake procedure.” Patients achieve amazingly great aesthetic outcomes with reduced downtime and related risks without the severe side effects of general anesthesia.
Learn MoreTraveling For Surgery
TRAVEL ACCOMMODATIONS TO OUR CLINIC FOR A BREAST AUGMENTATION
Finding a double board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in awake breast augmentation surgery may be difficult, particularly since this sort of procedure is only done by experienced cosmetic surgeons like Dr. Gartner. As a result, we encourage patients from all over the world to travel to our clinic and have this procedure performed by one of the doctors who contributed to its development.
To make your journey as easy and enjoyable as possible, we welcome out-of-state patients from all over the world. Traveling to our clinic and placing your trust in the hands of the surgeon who helped develop and design this surgical process will not only set your mind at ease in terms of safety, but you can also rest assured that you are having your surgery performed by only the finest double board-certified surgeon. Please schedule a consultation to learn more about our travel assistance for awake breast augmentation. We would be pleased to go through your procedure in further detail.
CANDIDATES WHO ARE QUALIFIED FOR AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION
Patients who want to improve their look with breast augmentation surgery should weigh the risks and benefits carefully. Awake augmentation is a cutting-edge alternative to conventional breast augmentation surgery. Patients who were not good candidates for general anesthesia are now able to get breast augmentation surgery in a manner that is safer for them.
Some patients who have also been wary of the risks of general anesthesia may be ecstatic to learn about the benefits of awake anesthesia. Dr. Gartner and the Gartner Plastic Surgery team will assess your eligibility for awake augmentation during your confidential one-on-one appointment.
IS AN AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION SURGERY SAFE?
It is entirely safe when performed by a double board-certified plastic surgeon with experience such as Dr. Gartner, one of the top plastic surgeons who has contributed to the creation and development of this surgical method. Awake augmentation eliminates the risks of prior methods that were accessible. Following their recovery, patients report reduced discomfort and more attractive, natural-looking results.
RECOVERY PROCESS FROM AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION SURGERY
Your recovery from an awake augmentation by Dr. Gartner will be comparable to standard breast enlargement under general anesthesia. With the awake approach, most patients can walk out of the operating room on their own after breast augmentation with a local anesthetic.
Patients will recover from awake augmentation more quickly and easily without the heavy medicines in their system. You may anticipate a simple and fully secure recovery. Following surgery, you will have a one to two-week recuperation period, after which your results will take one to six months to settle in.
Why Choose Awake Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation has become increasingly popular among women today, and for good reason. However, not all patients are candidates for general anesthesia. Luckily, a safe and accessible alternative method has emerged for those who could not get a breast augmentation before.
Introducing our specialized approach: awake breast augmentation. Dr. Gartner, a double board-certified surgeon and pioneer in the development of this technique, has perfected the procedure over the past 15 years. With maximum comfort for his patients, this alternative method is a great choice for those seeking breast augmentation in New Jersey.
Awake breast augmentation is one of the few surgical procedures noted for its exclusivity since not every surgeon has the expertise to do this treatment.
Dr. Michael Gartner has been a pioneer in the development of awake breast augmentation for many years and is well known in the field for his high success rate and strict safety standards.
Patients may rely on his decades of expertise as a double board-certified plastic surgeon to provide them with a one-of-a-kind surgical experience.
Pros and Cons
Anesthesia Options
All anesthesiologists agree that less sedation is safer sedation. The safest sedation is no sedation.
GENERAL ANESTHESIA
A percentage of the population is prone to having strong, negative effects from general anesthetic. These may include prolonged nausea and vomiting or headache post-procedure. Because of previous, adverse effects experienced from general anesthetic or because of fears about risks associated with this type of medication, many people seek safe, effective alternative options for anesthetic during breast augmentation surgery. People who come into Gartner Plastic Surgery often share their fears based on anecdotal stories. Often there is no scientific evidence to support the concern, but Dr. Gartner knows that anxiety can affect the surgical experience and he does not want his patients to be unnecessarily worried or feel ill after their procedure. The truth is, you can feel clear-headed and experience minimal discomfort, nausea, or other ill effects after your breast recovery. Dr. Gartner has perfected methods of using pre-emptive anesthetic and atraumatic surgical techniques so that if they choose.
LOCAL ANESTHESIA
The use of local, long-acting anesthetic to perform breast augmentation while a patient stays awake is a fairly common and entirely safe practice. Sometimes people fear that choosing this method means they may feel pain during the procedure. Dr. Gartner gives his patients valium to help relieve any anxiety. During the procedure, the sterile conditions are the same as during a regular breast augmentation. He first injects the breast tissue with fast-acting and long-acting numbing medications. The awake breast augmentation method allows Dr. Gartner to reduce your risks of general anesthetic- including the rare risk of malignant hypothermia. The recovery time post-procedure is the same as with standard breast augmentation except patients avoid the groggy, light-headed, or nauseous sensations which can persist for a few days after GA. Patients are awake and aware of recovery, so they can relax in the comfort of their own homes shortly after.
Consult Dr. GartnerHis patients can have awake breast augmentation surgery with minimal downtime and less need for pain medication or the negative effects of anesthesia. These injections can be felt, as with any needle, but they are small and this part of the process is quick and well-tolerated. After 10 minutes, Dr. Gartner can begin the procedure and you will feel nothing but some generalized tugging or pressure sensations. Patients describe the sensation as having someone lean on them a little. You will not see what is going on because of the draping in front of your chest but you can hear and communicate. Many patients become sleepy and sleep naturally due to the effects of the Valium. In 7 years of perfecting this procedure, Dr. Gartner has never had a patient wake up and ask for the procedure to be stopped.
More Benefits
- Avoid any long-term nerve sensitivity.
- Reduces the amount of time you need to take painkillers following surgery.
- Reduces nausea, tiredness, sore throat, and other unpleasant side effects during your recovery.
- Maintain your level of awareness during the procedure.
- Awake surgical procedures are less expensive than those requiring general anesthesia.
- Shorter recuperation period after surgery.
The awake breast augmentation surgical process:
During a local breast augmentation, you will remain awake for the duration of the process. You won’t feel anything since your anesthetic will be strong yet local. Dr. Gartner often administers a soothing sedative before beginning the procedure to help you relax.
One of the benefits of this type of procedure is that the nausea and disorientation associated with general anesthesia are avoided. Awake anesthesia permits a patient to move, eat, and do other important functions sooner following surgery. Once the procedure is over, the local anesthetic acts as a pain relief.
This type of surgery enables you to stay awake throughout the procedure and recuperate quickly after it is over. The awake breast augmentation surgery is recognized for its broad variety of advantages and is certainly the top pick for Dr. Gartner’s patients since many people prefer a safe, comfortable, and simple recovery.
FAQ
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION?
The benefits of Awake Breast Augmentation include:
* Avoidance of general anesthesia risks and side effects.
* Faster recovery and reduced downtime compared to traditional breast augmentation.
* Ability to provide real-time feedback during surgery to achieve desired results.
* Lower overall cost compared to general anesthesia procedures.
HOW IS AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION PERFORMED?
Awake Breast Augmentation is typically performed using local anesthesia and mild sedation. Dr. Gartner will numb the surgical area and make incisions to create pockets for the breast implants. The patient remains awake and can provide feedback on implant size and positioning. The surgeon then carefully inserts and positions the implants before closing the incisions.
IS AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION A SAFE PROCEDURE?
Awake Breast Augmentation can be a safe procedure when performed by a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon, such as Dr. Gartner. It is important to choose a board-certified surgeon who specializes in Awake Breast Augmentation to ensure the highest level of safety and care.
DOES AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION CAUSE ANY PAIN OR DISCOMFORT?
During Awake Breast Augmentation, local anesthesia is administered to numb the surgical area, minimizing pain and discomfort. Patients may still experience some pressure or mild sensations during the procedure, but it should not be painful.
WHAT TYPE OF ANESTHESIA IS USED DURING AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION?
Local anesthesia is used during Awake Breast Augmentation to numb the surgical area. Mild sedation may also be administered to help the patient relax during the procedure.
WHAT IS THE RECOVERY PROCESS LIKE AFTER AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION?
The recovery process after Awake Breast Augmentation is generally faster compared to traditional breast augmentation. Most patients can expect minimal downtime and discomfort. However, it is important to follow the post-operative instructions provided by your plastic surgeon, including wearing a supportive bra, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments.
ARE THERE ANY RESTRICTIONS OR LIMITATIONS AFTER UNDERGOING AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION?
Patients are typically advised to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for a few weeks after Awake Breast Augmentation. It is important to follow Dr. Gartner’s instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and optimal results.
CAN I ACHIEVE THE SAME RESULTS WITH AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION AS WITH TRADITIONAL BREAST AUGMENTATION?
Yes, Awake Breast Augmentation can provide comparable results to traditional breast augmentation. The key difference is the anesthesia method used during the procedure. However, the outcome will depend on factors such as your anatomy, implant choice, and surgical technique.
HOW LONG DO THE RESULTS OF AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION LAST?
The results of Awake Breast Augmentation can be long-lasting. However, it is important to note that breast implants are not considered lifetime devices and may require replacement or revision in the future. Maintaining a stable weight and following your surgeon’s post-operative guidelines can help prolong the results.
HOW DO I DETERMINE IF AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION IS THE RIGHT OPTION FOR ME?
To determine if Awake Breast Augmentation is the right option for you, it is important to schedule a consultation with Dr. Gartner. During this consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your anatomy, discuss your goals, and provide personalized recommendations based on your circumstances. They will also address any specific concerns or questions you may have about Awake Breast Augmentation.
WILL I BE ABLE TO FEEL ANY PAIN OR DISCOMFORT DURING AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION?
During Awake Breast Augmentation, local anesthesia is administered to numb the surgical area, which helps minimize pain and discomfort during the procedure. However, it is normal to experience some pressure or mild sensations during the surgery. Your surgeon will ensure that you are comfortable throughout the procedure.
HOW LONG DOES AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION SURGERY USUALLY TAKE?
The duration of Awake Breast Augmentation surgery can vary depending on individual factors such as the complexity of the procedure and the type of implants being used. On average, the surgery can take anywhere from one to three hours. Dr. Gartner will provide you with a more accurate estimate during your consultation.
WILL I NEED DRAINS AFTER AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION SURGERY?
The need for drains after Awake Breast Augmentation surgery may vary depending on your surgeon’s preference and your case. Drains are sometimes used to help remove excess fluid and minimize swelling during the initial healing phase. That said, Dr. Gartner will discuss the use of drains and their removal process with you before the surgery.
CAN I BREASTFEED AFTER HAVING AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION?
Awake Breast Augmentation does not typically interfere with breastfeeding. However, it is important to note that breast implants can potentially affect milk production and flow. If you are planning to have children or breastfeed in the future, it is recommended to discuss this with your surgeon during your consultation to understand any potential implications.
WHEN CAN I START WEARING UNDERWIRE BRAS AFTER AWAKE BREAST AUGMENTATION?
Dr. Gartner will provide specific guidelines regarding the use of bras and underwire after Awake Breast Augmentation. Generally, it is recommended to avoid underwire bras for a certain period, typically a few weeks, to allow proper healing of the incisions and to minimize discomfort. Your surgeon will advise you on when it is safe to transition to underwire bras based on your progress and healing.