Breast Augmentation & Breast Implants in Denver
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure designed to increase breast volume, improve shape and symmetry, and create a more balanced proportion between the breasts and the rest of the body. Augmentation may be performed using breast implants or, in select patients, fat transfer.
Women consider breast augmentation for many different reasons. Some have always wanted more breast volume or feel their breasts are disproportionately small for their frame. Others notice loss of fullness after pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss, or aging. Breast augmentation can also improve noticeable breast asymmetry and restore volume that has changed over time.
At Denver Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics, board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Christine Rodgers and Dr. Cecelia Nguyen take a highly individualized approach to breast augmentation in Denver, CO. Implant size, shape, profile, placement, and surgical technique are selected based on your anatomy, tissue characteristics, chest proportions, lifestyle, and aesthetic goals. The goal is not simply to create larger breasts, but to achieve a balanced, natural-looking result that complements your body.
Benefits of Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation can:
- Increase breast volume and fullness
- Improve breast shape and projection
- Restore volume lost after pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss, or aging
- Improve breast asymmetry
- Create better balance between the breasts, waist, and hips
- Improve how bras, swimsuits, and clothing fit
- Provide subtle or more noticeable enhancement depending on your goals
- Create long-lasting, natural-looking breast enhancement
Who Is a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation Surgery?
Breast augmentation may be appropriate if you want more breast volume, have lost fullness after pregnancy or weight loss, have noticeable breast asymmetry, or want breasts that are more proportionate to your frame. Choosing to undergo cosmetic surgery is a personal decision, and patient safety is always our highest priority. During your consultation, our surgeons will evaluate your medical history, overall health, and goals to determine whether surgery can be performed safely and effectively.
Good Overall Health
Ideal candidates are in good physical health and free from uncontrolled medical conditions that could increase surgical risk or interfere with healing. Depending on your age and medical history, additional clearance or testing may be required before surgery.
Non-Smoking Status
Patients should be non-smokers and free of nicotine products at least one month prior to surgery and at least one month post operatively, since nicotine use impairs circulation, delays healing, and increases the risk of complications.
Close to Your Goal Weight
Denver Plastic Surgery does not require a specific BMI, but the best candidates are generally at or near their goal weight and have maintained it for several months. Cosmetic surgery is not a weight-loss solution.
Realistic Expectations
The ideal candidate understands that surgery can enhance appearance and confidence but cannot create perfection. Your surgeon will discuss what can realistically be achieved and build a treatment plan around your goals.
Breast Augmentation Options: Silicone, Saline & Fat Transfer
There is no single breast implant, implant size, or surgical technique that is right for every patient. At Denver Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics, breast augmentation begins with understanding the result you want to achieve and then determining which approach best complements your natural anatomy. During your consultation, Dr. Rodgers or Dr. Nguyen will evaluate your breast tissue, skin elasticity, chest width, existing breast shape and symmetry, nipple position, and overall body proportions. Together, you will discuss implant type, size, profile, placement, and whether an implant, fat transfer, breast lift, or combination approach is most appropriate.
Silicone Breast Implants
Silicone breast implants are a popular choice for breast augmentation because they can create soft, natural-looking and natural-feeling results. Silicone implants are available in a variety of sizes, profiles, and levels of gel cohesivity, allowing your surgeon to select an implant that complements your chest dimensions and desired degree of fullness.
Rather than choosing an implant based solely on cup size, our surgeons consider how its dimensions will interact with your existing breast tissue and frame. The goal is to select an implant that creates the shape and proportion you want without overwhelming your natural anatomy. Read more about choosing the right implants for your body.
Saline Breast Implants
Saline breast implants consist of a silicone outer shell filled with sterile saline solution. Because they are filled after placement, the volume can be adjusted during surgery. Some patients prefer saline implants because a rupture is generally easier to recognize: the saline is harmlessly absorbed by the body and the breast noticeably decreases in volume. Saline and silicone implants each have advantages and limitations, which your surgeon will review with you during your consultation.
Implant Placement: Under the Muscle vs. Over the Muscle
Implant placement describes where the implant sits in relation to the chest muscle. The two main options are:
- Under the muscle (subpectoral): the implant is placed beneath the chest muscle, which adds a layer of tissue coverage over the implant. This placement is often considered for patients with less natural breast tissue, and it can help soften the appearance of the implant’s upper edge.
- Over the muscle (subglandular): the implant is placed behind the breast tissue and on top of the chest muscle. This option may be appropriate for patients who have enough natural tissue coverage, and it avoids the implant moving when the chest muscle flexes.
Some surgeons also use a combination approach known as dual plane placement, in which part of the implant is covered by muscle and part by breast tissue. Learn more about under the muscle breast augmentation.
Implants may be positioned using different techniques depending on your anatomy, tissue coverage, implant choice, and surgeon recommendation. Dr. Rodgers and Dr. Nguyen will explain the advantages and considerations of the options appropriate for you and develop a surgical plan specifically for your body.
Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation
For patients seeking a smaller or more subtle increase in breast volume, fat transfer may be an option. This approach uses liposuction to remove fat from another area of the body, which is then carefully processed and transferred to the breasts. Alloclae is another option, made from purified donor fat tissue that can be transferred into the breasts.
Fat transfer can create a very natural-looking enhancement without a breast implant, but it generally provides a more modest increase in size. Not every patient has enough donor fat or the appropriate anatomy for this technique, and some of the transferred fat will naturally be reabsorbed by the body.
Breast Augmentation With a Breast Lift
Breast augmentation increases volume, but an implant alone cannot always correct significant breast sagging.
If the breast tissue or nipple has descended substantially, a breast lift may be recommended with augmentation. A breast lift repositions the breast and removes excess skin, while an implant can restore fullness and improve upper-breast volume.
Some patients need augmentation alone, some benefit from a breast lift alone, and others achieve the best result by combining both procedures. Your surgeon will explain which approach is most appropriate based on your anatomy and goals.
Natural Breast Augmentation: The “Ballerina” Look
You may have heard terms such as “Ballerina implants,” “yoga boobs,” or “natural breast augmentation” used to describe a smaller, refined breast augmentation with proportional volume and a soft upper-breast contour. A “Ballerina implant” is not a specific implant or medical device. It describes an aesthetic goal.
Creating this type of result depends on thoughtful selection of implant size and profile, appropriate implant placement, your existing breast tissue, and careful surgical planning. Some patients want a very subtle enhancement, while others prefer more fullness and projection. Neither is inherently better; the right result is the one that feels balanced and appropriate for you.
Breast Augmentation Cost in Denver
At Denver Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics, breast augmentation surgery typically starts around $14,000, with more complex procedures ranging from $19,000 or more. Our surgical estimates include the surgeon’s fee, breast implants, facility fees, and anesthesia, giving patients a comprehensive understanding of their anticipated costs.
Pricing varies based on several factors, including the type of implants selected, the complexity of the procedure, and whether additional procedures, such as a breast lift, are recommended. Patients who require a breast lift in combination with augmentation can generally expect higher costs due to the additional surgical time and complexity.
Because every patient’s anatomy and aesthetic goals are unique, an accurate quote is provided following a personal consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons, Dr. Christine Rodgers or Dr. Cecelia Nguyen.
Financing options are available to help make surgery more manageable, and our team is happy to discuss payment options during the consultation process.
What to Expect During Breast Augmentation Surgery
Before surgery, you will attend a detailed pre-operative appointment where our team will review your surgical plan, implant selection, medications, pre-operative instructions, recovery expectations, and any required laboratory testing or medical clearance. You will also have an opportunity to ask questions and make sure you feel fully prepared.
Breast augmentation is typically performed under general anesthesia in an accredited surgical facility. Your anesthesia is administered and monitored by a qualified anesthesia provider throughout the procedure.
Once you are asleep, your surgeon makes carefully planned incisions designed to minimize visible scarring. Incision placement depends on your anatomy, implant type, and surgical plan. A pocket is then created for the implant in the position selected during surgical planning.
The implant is carefully placed and its position, shape, symmetry, and relationship to the chest are evaluated before the incisions are closed. If fat transfer or a breast lift is being performed at the same time, those portions of the procedure are completed according to your personalized surgical plan.
The incisions are closed in layers and surgical dressings and a supportive bra are placed.
Breast augmentation is generally an outpatient procedure. After surgery, you will be monitored in the recovery area until you are awake, comfortable, and cleared to go home. You will need a responsible adult to drive you home and remain available to help you during the early part of your recovery.
As with any operation, breast augmentation involves potential risks and complications. Your surgeon will review these with you in detail before surgery, along with breast implant-specific safety information, so you can make a fully informed decision about your procedure.
Breast Augmentation Recovery & Healing Timeline
First Week
Soreness, pressure, tightness, swelling, and a feeling of heaviness in the breasts are normal during the first several days. A surgical bra and/or dressings will be placed during surgery. Do not remove until instructed by our team. Gentle walking is encouraged, but your priority should be rest and allowing your body to heal. You will return to the office for a postoperative appointment so we can evaluate your healing and review the next phase of your recovery. Review our breast augmentation post-care instructions for detailed guidance.
Weeks 2-4
Most patients are feeling significantly more comfortable and are able to return to many normal daily activities. Swelling continues to improve, although the breasts may still sit higher or feel firmer than they eventually will. Continue wearing an appropriate supportive bra as directed. Heavy lifting, strenuous upper-body exercise, arm movements and activities that place excessive stress on the chest should still be avoided until your surgeon clears you.
Weeks 4-6
Much of the initial healing has occurred by this point. Depending on your progress, your surgeon may allow you to gradually resume more vigorous exercise and normal physical activity. Your implants will continue settling into position, and the breasts will begin to feel softer and more natural. Every patient’s recovery is different, so your individual activity restrictions will be based on how you are healing rather than simply the number of weeks that have passed.
Long-Term Healing
Residual swelling continues to resolve over the following months as the implants settle and the breast tissues soften. Our breast augmentation patients are instructed to wear a supportive bra consistently during the early months following surgery, and your provider will guide you regarding the appropriate type of bra and duration of use. Incision scars will initially be visible but typically soften and fade as they mature. Scar appearance continues to improve over many months. Regular follow-up allows our surgeons to monitor your healing, implant position, breast health, and long-term results.
See our Recovery Essentials Guide.
Why Choose Denver Plastic Surgery for Breast Augmentation?
Led by board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Christine Rodgers and Dr. Cecelia Nguyen, both certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, our practice combines decades of surgical expertise with a personalized, patient-centered approach. Every treatment plan is built around your unique anatomy, goals, and lifestyle rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.
Our surgeons perform procedures in an accredited surgical facility where patient safety is always the highest priority. Patients consistently point to the compassion and attention they receive from our entire team, from your first consultation through your final follow-up appointment.
We’re honored to be trusted by patients throughout Denver and the surrounding communities who are seeking expert care, personalized attention, and results that look natural and feel authentic.
Breast Augmentation Results & Before and After Photos
Breast augmentation produces an immediate increase in breast volume, but your appearance immediately after surgery is not your final result. Early swelling and tightness can temporarily make the breasts appear higher or firmer than expected. As swelling decreases and the tissues relax, the implants gradually settle into a more natural position and the final breast shape becomes increasingly apparent. Our guide to realistic expectations for breast augmentation results explains what to expect as you heal.
Breast augmentation results are designed to be long-lasting, but your breasts will continue to change naturally throughout your life. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, hormonal changes, aging, and changes in skin elasticity can all affect breast appearance over time.
Breast implants are not lifetime devices, but they also do not automatically need to be replaced every 10 years. There is no universal expiration date for breast implants. If your implants are intact, your breasts look and feel good, and there is no complication or desire for change, surgery is not required simply because a certain number of years has passed. Long-term follow-up and appropriate breast imaging remain important for patients with implants.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Augmentation
How much does breast augmentation cost in Denver?
The cost of breast augmentation varies depending on your implant choice, surgical approach, whether additional procedures such as a breast lift are performed, and your individualized treatment plan. Pricing includes several components, including the surgeon’s fee, operating room or facility fees, anesthesia, and breast implants or other supplies. At Denver Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics, the cost of breast augmentation surgery typically starts around $14,000, with more complex procedures ranging up to $19,000 or more.
During your consultation, Dr. Christine Rodgers or Dr. Cecelia Nguyen will evaluate your anatomy, discuss your goals, and develop a personalized surgical plan. Once your treatment plan has been finalized, we will provide a detailed quote outlining all associated costs so you know exactly what to expect before scheduling your procedure. Visit our financial options page to learn about ways to plan for the cost of surgery.
Am I a good candidate for breast augmentation?
Good candidates are generally healthy, non-smoking patients who are at or near a stable goal weight and have realistic expectations about what breast augmentation can accomplish. Breast augmentation may be appropriate if you want more breast volume, have lost fullness after pregnancy or weight loss, have noticeable breast asymmetry, or simply want your breasts to be more proportionate to your frame. Patients should not undergo elective breast augmentation while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Should I choose silicone or saline breast implants?
There is no universally “best” breast implant. Silicone implants are frequently selected because of their soft, natural feel and the variety of sizes, profiles, and gel characteristics available. Saline implants offer different advantages, including the ability to recognize a rupture more easily because the breast visibly deflates. Your surgeon will explain the differences and recommend options based on your anatomy, tissue coverage, goals, lifestyle, and personal preferences.
Are breast implants placed over or under the muscle?
Breast implants can be placed under the muscle (submuscular) or over the muscle, behind the breast tissue (subglandular). The best option depends on your anatomy, how much natural breast tissue you have, the implant you choose, and your surgeon’s recommendation. Dr. Rodgers or Dr. Nguyen will explain the advantages and considerations of each approach during your consultation.
What are “Ballerina implants”?
“Ballerina implants” are not a particular implant brand or type. The term describes a natural-looking style of breast augmentation focused on proportion, subtle enhancement, a soft upper-breast contour, and results that complement rather than overpower the patient’s frame. Achieving this look depends on implant size, profile, placement, surgical technique, and your natural anatomy, not on choosing a specific implant. Learn more in our What Are Ballerina Implants? The Natural Breast Augmentation Trend Explained article.
Do I need a breast lift or just implants?
It depends. An implant restores or adds volume, but it does not reliably correct significant sagging or reposition a nipple that sits too low on the breast. If your primary concern is loss of volume and your breast and nipple position remain appropriate, breast augmentation alone may be sufficient. If you have significant loose skin or breast drooping, your surgeon may recommend a breast lift alone or a breast lift combined with implants. Your consultation is the best way to determine which procedure will actually address your anatomy.
How long does breast augmentation recovery take?
Recovery varies for each patient. Complete recovery occurs gradually. Soreness and tightness are most noticeable during the first several weeks. Most patients feel substantially better within one to two weeks, but strenuous exercise and heavy lifting are restricted for at least 6 weeks, sometimes longer. Because recovery is individual, we recommend working directly with your surgeon on recovery restriction
Will I have scars after breast augmentation?
Yes. Any surgery requiring an incision creates a scar. Our surgeons place breast augmentation incisions strategically to keep them as inconspicuous as possible. Early scars may appear pink, firm, or more noticeable before gradually softening and fading over time. Genetics, skin type, nicotine exposure, sun exposure, infection, and individual healing all influence how a scar ultimately matures.
Do breast implants need to be replaced every 10 years?
No. There is no rule that breast implants must automatically be replaced every 10 years. Breast implants are not considered lifetime medical devices, and the likelihood of experiencing an implant-related issue increases the longer implants are in place. However, the lifespan of an individual implant cannot be predicted. If your implants are intact, your breasts look and feel good, and there is no complication or desire for a change, you do not need surgery simply because your implants have reached their tenth anniversary. Patients should continue appropriate long-term follow-up and contact their plastic surgeon if they notice pain, hardening, swelling, asymmetry, a change in breast shape, or another new concern. If you are considering replacing or updating your implants, learn more about breast revision surgery.
Can I still get mammograms after breast augmentation?
Yes. Breast augmentation does not eliminate the need for routine breast cancer screening. Continue mammograms and other breast cancer screening according to your age, personal risk factors, and the recommendations of your healthcare providers. Always tell your imaging center that you have breast implants so the technologist can use appropriate imaging techniques. It is also important to understand that a mammogram screens breast tissue for breast cancer; it is not the same as imaging performed to evaluate silicone implant integrity. For silicone implants, FDA guidance recommends ultrasound or MRI beginning approximately five to six years after implant placement and every two to three years thereafter to screen for silent rupture.
Learn more in our Breast Imaging After Breast Surgery: What You Need to Know About Mammograms, Ultrasounds, and MRIs guide.
Can I breastfeed after breast augmentation?
Many women are able to breastfeed after breast augmentation, but no surgery involving the breast can guarantee that breastfeeding ability will remain unchanged. Your existing breast anatomy, incision placement, surgical technique, and other individual factors may influence milk production. If future pregnancy or breastfeeding is important to you, discuss this with your surgeon during your consultation so it can be considered during surgical planning. Read more about breastfeeding after breast surgery.
Schedule Your Breast Augmentation Consultation in Denver
Ready to explore whether breast augmentation is right for you? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Christine Rodgers or Dr. Cecelia Nguyen today.
Denver Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics is located at 4600 E Hale Pkwy, Ste 330, Denver, CO 80220, in the Melvin & Elaine Wolf Surgery and Office Building on the Rose Medical Center campus. To schedule, call 720-307-4562.
