Breast augmentation is a cosmetic procedure that increases breast volume and enhances natural breast shape with implants or fat transfer. This popular cosmetic surgery helps women achieve their desired breast size and enhances their overall appearance.
Dr. Michael Gartner, a double board-certified plastic surgeon, offers several types of breast augmentation to help you achieve the body you have always wanted. He is one of the few surgeons to offer awake breast augmentation and was instrumental in the development of the procedure. Awake breast augmentation does not require general anesthesia and is an effective way to achieve your goals with a shorter recovery process.
Dr. Gartner uses his extensive expertise to help thousands of patients achieve spectacular results. His awake breast augmentation procedures mean patients can achieve results in just a one-hour appointment.
Contact our office or call to schedule an appointment at one of the following locations:
New Jersey
About Breast Augmentation in New York
In 2022, approximately 300,000 patients in the United States received breast augmentations, making it one of the most commonly performed cosmetic surgeries. (1) Breast augmentation can restore volume that may have been lost over time or enhance the size of naturally small breasts to achieve a fuller and more proportionate breast appearance.
Dr. Gartner provides several augmentation options to help you achieve your dream figure. This customizable procedure is very personal because everyone has a different perception of beauty. Dr. Gartner will work with you to help you decide how to achieve the results you are looking for.
BREAST IMPLANT OPTIONS
Silicone Gel Implants
Modern silicone implants contain a cohesive silicone gel that closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. These implants are the most popular choice among Dr. Gartner's patients due to their natural look and feel. The latest generation of silicone implants—often called "gummy bear" implants—maintain their shape even if the outer shell is compromised, providing an additional layer of safety. Silicone implants are FDA-approved for women 22 years and older.
Saline Implants
Saline implants consist of a silicone shell filled with sterile saltwater solution. One significant advantage of saline implants is that they can be inserted through smaller incisions since they're filled after placement, allowing Dr. Gartner to fine-tune the volume during surgery for optimal symmetry. In the rare event of a rupture, the saline is safely absorbed by the body. Saline implants are FDA-approved for women 18 years and older.
Implant Profiles and Shapes
Beyond the fill material, implants come in various profiles (low, moderate, moderate-plus, high, and ultra-high) that determine how far the implant projects from the chest wall. Round implants provide fullness in the upper portion of the breast, while anatomical (teardrop) shaped implants offer a more natural slope. During your consultation, Dr. Gartner will use sizing systems and 3D imaging to help you visualize different options and make an informed decision.
Fat Transfer
For patients seeking a more natural approach to breast enhancement, Dr. Gartner offers fat transfer breast augmentation. During this procedure, Dr. Gartner uses advanced liposuction techniques to extract fat from areas such as the thighs, hips, or abdomen. The harvested fat is then carefully purified and strategically injected into the breasts to add volume and improve shape. Fat transfer breast augmentation offers several unique advantages: it uses your own natural tissue (eliminating concerns about implant-related complications), provides the added benefit of body contouring in the donor area, and creates soft, natural-feeling results. This technique is ideal for patients seeking a modest size increase of approximately one cup size. Fat transfer can also be combined with breast implants for patients who want enhanced volume along with improved breast shape and contour. During your consultation, Dr. Gartner will evaluate whether you have sufficient donor fat and discuss whether fat transfer alone or in combination with implants is the best option for achieving your goals.
Benefits of Awake Breast Augmentation
- Enhanced Bustline and Improved Body Proportions: Breast augmentation can help balance your figure by increasing breast size and projection, creating a more proportionate silhouette that complements your natural body shape.
- Boost in Confidence and Self-Esteem: Many women experience increased self-confidence and improved body image after achieving their desired breast size. This enhanced confidence often extends to both personal and professional aspects of life.
- Restoring Volume After Pregnancy or Weight Loss: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and significant weight loss can lead to changes in breast volume and shape. Breast augmentation can restore lost volume and improve breast appearance, helping you feel like yourself again.
- Correcting Asymmetry: Most women have some degree of natural breast asymmetry. Breast augmentation can achieve better symmetry, balancing differences in size, shape, or positioning for a more harmonious appearance.
- Expanded Clothing Options: With enhanced breast size and shape, many patients find they can wear styles they previously avoided, including swimwear, low-cut tops, and form-fitting dresses with greater confidence.
How Awake Breast Augmentation Works
During your breast augmentation, we will place you under general or local anesthesia depending on the type of procedure you have. The most common incision options are inframammary (made under the breast within the natural breast crease), periareolar (around the edge of the areola), or transaxillary (within the armpit). Your breast augmentation procedure will be tailored to suit your unique needs and goals, ensuring the best possible aesthetic outcome.
THE BREAST AUGMENTATION PROCEDURE
Incision Options
Inframammary Incision: Made in the natural crease beneath the breast, this is the most common approach and provides Dr. Gartner with excellent visibility and control during implant placement. The resulting scar is well-hidden in the breast fold.
Periareolar Incision: Made along the lower edge of the areola (the darker skin surrounding the nipple), this incision heals with minimal visible scarring due to the natural color transition.
Transaxillary Incision: Made in the armpit, this approach leaves no scars on the breast itself. Dr. Gartner may recommend this option for patients seeking the most discreet scarring possible.
Implant Placement Options
Submuscular (Under the Muscle): The implant is placed beneath the pectoralis major muscle. This placement provides additional tissue coverage, reducing the risk of visible rippling and creating a more natural appearance, especially in patients with minimal natural breast tissue.
Subglandular (Over the Muscle): The implant is placed behind the breast tissue but in front of the chest muscle. This placement may be appropriate for patients with adequate natural breast tissue and can result in a shorter recovery time.
Candidates
- Desire fuller or larger breasts
- Have naturally smaller breasts
- Experience loss of breast volume due to pregnancy, weight loss, or aging
- Desire improved breast symmetry
- Have realistic expectations and understand the potential risks and limitations of the procedure
- Are physically healthy and do not have any underlying medical conditions that may impair healing or increase risks during surgery
- Do not smoke or are willing to quit smoking before and after surgery, as smoking can compromise healing
PERSONAL CONSULTATION
Your breast augmentation journey begins with a comprehensive personal consultation with Dr. Gartner. During this appointment, Dr. Gartner will take the time to understand your aesthetic goals, discuss your medical history, and perform a thorough physical examination to determine the best approach for your unique anatomy.
Dr. Gartner will explain all available options, including implant types (silicone vs. saline), sizes, profiles, incision locations, and placement techniques. He will help you decide whether traditional breast augmentation under general anesthesia or awake breast augmentation is the better choice for your needs and lifestyle.
Dr. Gartner will help you visualize potential outcomes so you can make a confident, informed decision. He encourages patients to bring photos of their desired results and ask questions—this consultation is your opportunity to ensure you and Dr. Gartner share the same vision for your outcome.
At the end of your consultation, you will receive a customized treatment plan and transparent pricing information. Our patient coordinators are available to discuss financing options and help you schedule your procedure at a time that works best for you.
PREPARATION
Before your procedure, you will need to:
- Arrange for a trusted adult to drive you home after your procedure and stay with you for the first 24-48 hours
- Stop taking blood thinners, aspirin, ibuprofen, and other NSAIDs at least two weeks before surgery (or as directed by Dr. Gartner)
- Avoid alcohol for at least 48 hours before your procedure
- Stop smoking at least 4-6 weeks before surgery, as smoking significantly impairs healing
- Purchase loose, comfortable clothing that buttons or zips in the front (you’ll want to avoid pulling shirts over your head during recovery)
- Prepare your recovery area at home with pillows, medications, water, and entertainment within easy reach
- Fill any prescriptions Dr. Gartner provides before your surgery date
BREAST AUGMENTATION RECOVERY: WHAT TO EXPECT
- Days 1-3: Expect mild to moderate discomfort, swelling, and tightness. Pain medication will be prescribed to keep you comfortable. Most patients feel well enough to move around the house and perform light activities. Awake breast augmentation patients often report minimal discomfort during this period.
- Week 1: Many patients return to desk jobs and light daily activities by the end of the first week. You'll wear a supportive surgical bra to minimize swelling and support your healing breasts. Avoid lifting anything heavier than 5 pounds.
- Weeks 2-4: Swelling continues to decrease, and your breasts begin to settle into a more natural position. Light exercise such as walking is encouraged. Avoid upper body workouts, heavy lifting, and strenuous activities.
- Weeks 4-6: Most patients can gradually return to exercise routines and more strenuous activities. Your implants will continue to "drop and fluff"—settling into their final position with a softer, more natural appearance.
- 3-6 Months: Final results are typically visible by this time. Swelling has fully resolved, scars continue to fade, and your implants have settled into their permanent position. Most patients report feeling completely healed and thrilled with their results.
WHY CHOOSE DR. GARTNER FOR YOUR BREAST AUGMENTATION
Double Board-Certified Expertise
Dr. Gartner holds dual board certifications, demonstrating his commitment to the highest standards of surgical excellence and patient safety. His extensive training includes specialized fellowship experience in aesthetic breast surgery.
Pioneer in Awake Breast Augmentation
Dr. Gartner was instrumental in developing the awake breast augmentation technique, which eliminates the need for general anesthesia. This innovative approach offers faster recovery, reduced risks, and allows patients to participate in real-time sizing decisions during the procedure.
Thousands of Successful Procedures
With thousands of breast augmentation procedures performed, Dr. Gartner has the experience and refined technique to deliver consistently exceptional results across all breast types and body frames.
Personalized Treatment Approach
Every patient receives a customized surgical plan based on their unique anatomy, lifestyle, and aesthetic goals. Dr. Gartner spends extensive time during consultations to understand your vision and set realistic expectations.
Convenient NJ & NY Locations
With offices in Paramus, New Jersey and New York City, Dr. Gartner serves patients throughout the tri-state area. For patients traveling from farther locations, his team assists with accommodation arrangements.
Breast Augmentation Results
After a breast augmentation, you can enjoy your new beautiful voluptuous breasts. You will no longer have to worry about uneven breasts making your clothes uncomfortable and you will love the natural look and feel of your new body. The results of a breast augmentation procedure are also long-lasting. You will not have to return to the office for new implants for several years, so you can focus on enjoying your new contour. If you decide to increase your breast size later on, we can help you make adjustments as needed.
CORRESPONDING PROCEDURES
Breast Lift
Although a breast augmentation procedure can increase the size of your breasts, it cannot correct drooping breasts or significant sagging. If your breasts noticeably sag, you will likely need a breast lift, also known as a mastopexy. There are many types of incision options for a breast lift, and Dr. Gartner will choose the right one depending on your unique anatomy and degree of breast sagging.
Breast Revision
If you received implants in the past and are unhappy with your results, a breast revision procedure can correct mistakes. If your implant is ruptured or needs to be changed for another reason like rippling or capsular contracture, we will place a new implant to have you looking and feeling back to your old self.
Mommy Makeover
A mommy makeover is a highly customizable procedure that reduces excess fat and skin after pregnancy and is the perfect addition to breast augmentation surgery. Pregnancy can lead to sagging breasts and lost volume. If you have a mommy makeover, Dr. Gartner can contour the abdomen with a tummy tuck or liposuction, lift the breasts, and increase your breast volume to help you get your old body back. For more corresponding procedures, please see our blog.
Cost of Breast Augmentation in NEW JERSEY
The cost of your breast augmentation will depend on several factors, including the type of procedure (traditional vs. awake), the type and size of implants selected, and any additional procedures performed. Dr. Gartner believes in transparent pricing—please see our detailed pricing guide for an estimate. An all-inclusive quote will be provided after your consultation.
Financing options are available to help make your procedure more affordable. Our patient coordinators can discuss payment plans and financing through CareCredit and other providers.
There is no need to wait to get the body contour you desire. Contact our office to schedule your initial consultation by calling your nearest location. For patients from farther afield, we encourage you to travel since Dr. Gartner is one of the only double board-certified plastic surgeons who performs awake breast augmentation procedures and will help you make accommodations.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
We believe informed patients make confident decisions. Explore answers to common questions about plastic surgery, recovery, and what to expect from your consultation with Dr. Gartner.
How long does breast augmentation surgery take?
What type of anesthesia is used for breast augmentation surgery?
How much does breast augmentation cost in New Jersey?
How long do breast implants last?
What is the difference between awake and traditional breast augmentation?
Will breast implants look natural?
Can I combine breast augmentation with other procedures?
What size implants should I get?
Are there any risks or complications with breast augmentation?
When can I return to work after breast augmentation?
Do breast implants affect breastfeeding?
Can breast augmentation correct sagging breasts?
References
- Maher JL, Bennett DC, Bennett LL, Grothaus P, Mahabir RC. Breast augmentation: A geographical comparison. The Canadian Journal of Plastic Surgery. 2010;18(4):e44-e46. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3006117/
- Fardo D, Sequeira Campos M, Pensler JM. Breast Augmentation. PubMed. Published 2021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482206/