What To Know Before You Go: Preparing For Your Breast Augmentation Consultation
If you're seriously considering breast implants, you've likely spent hours looking at before-and-after photos, imagining how clothes will fit, and picturing how you'll feel seeing yourself in the mirror. Maybe you've been thinking about this for years, or perhaps recent life changes have brought you to this moment. Either way, it's completely normal to feel excited—and maybe a little overwhelmed—about the process.
Here's what we want you to know: breast augmentation surgery isn't just about getting breast implants. It's about feeling more confident in your skin, filling out that favorite dress the way you've always imagined, and aligning your body with how you see yourself. The best results come when your procedure is customized for your goals, your lifestyle, and your unique anatomy.
Whether you're here because you've always felt self-conscious in swimwear, want to restore your shape after having children, or simply want to feel more proportionate, your reasons are valid and deeply personal. Dr. Burns understands that this decision represents so much more than a physical change—it's about feeling like the most authentic version of yourself.
Before your consultation, here are the essential things to know so you feel empowered, informed, and ready to have a productive conversation with your plastic surgeon.
Understanding Your Options: The Technical Details That Matter
1. Saline vs. Silicone: What Will Feel Most Like You?
This is often the first question women ask, and for good reason. Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water and can feel a bit firmer—think of the difference between a water balloon and a gel pack. While they're safe and effective, many women find they don't feel quite as natural as they'd hoped.
Silicone implants have a cohesive gel that feels remarkably similar to natural breast tissue. Among silicone options, newer Motiva SilkSurface implants are designed to feel smooth, look natural, and reduce the risk of complications like capsular contracture. If you want your results to feel as real as they look when you're hugging your kids or being intimate with your partner, this is worth discussing.
2. Forget Cup Sizes—Think About Volume
Here's something that might surprise you: implants are measured in cubic centimeters (cc), not bra sizes. That "goal bra" photo you've saved on your phone? Bring it to your consultation, but understand that we will look at your chest width, skin elasticity, and body proportions to find a volume that looks natural on you.
The same 350cc implant can look completely different on a petite woman versus someone with a broader frame. This is where Dr. Burns' expertise with 3D imaging becomes invaluable—you can actually see how different volumes will look on your specific body before making any decisions.
3. Placement Matters for Your Lifestyle
Implants can go above your pec muscle (subglandular) or below your muscle (submuscular). If you're the type who never misses a workout, lifts weights, or does intensive yoga, your surgeon might recommend a placement that minimizes movement during exercise. If you want that soft, natural slope that looks beautiful in low-cut tops, you might benefit from a different approach.
There's no "right" choice—only what's right for your body and your life. This decision shapes your long-term comfort, how natural your results feel, and how they age with you.
4. Profile = Projection (And It's About More Than Cleavage)
Profile refers to how much your implant projects from your chest. High-profile implants create more upper fullness and dramatic cleavage—perfect if you love that pushed-up look in fitted dresses. Moderate profiles give a softer, wider appearance that fills out tops beautifully without looking overdone.
The right choice depends on whether you love a full, rounded look or want something more subtle that your coworkers won't notice but makes you feel amazing in your own skin.
5. Let's Talk About What You Really Want
If you're hoping for more upper pole fullness and that confident feeling in strapless dresses, your surgeon can guide you on implant type and placement to help achieve that. If you want a natural slope that looks like you were just blessed with beautiful breasts, that's absolutely possible too.
Be honest about your goals. There's no judgment here—whether you want to go from an A to a full C or add subtle volume to fill out your frame, your surgeon needs to understand your vision to deliver results you'll love.
6. What Is Dual-Plane Placement?
This technique places the implant partially under the muscle and partially under your breast tissue. It's like getting the best of both worlds—natural movement and shape with added fullness where you want it most.
Dual-plane placement is commonly used when you have mild breast droop and want a lifted appearance without needing a formal breast lift. It creates that youthful, perky look many women are seeking.
7. The "Gummy Bear" Implant Reality
Gummy bear implants (form-stable silicone) hold their shape even if damaged—they won't leak or collapse like older implant types. They're firmer than traditional silicone, maintain upper fullness beautifully, and are less likely to ripple or show edges.
They're ideal if you want structure with a natural feel, especially if you're active or have thinner skin coverage.
8. What About Rippling?
If you're naturally lean or have thin skin, rippling can sometimes be visible with certain implant types or placements. The good news? Choosing cohesive gel implants, submuscular placement, or combining implants with fat grafting can help prevent rippling so your results stay smooth and natural-looking.
This is why choosing an experienced surgeon matters—they can anticipate these issues and plan accordingly.
9. Teardrop vs. Round Implants
Teardrop implants mimic your natural breast slope, while round implants give more fullness in the upper pole. Motiva Ergonomix implants actually adjust with your movement—round when lying down, teardrop when upright, so you get a natural look in every position.
10. Do You Need an Internal Bra?
If you have significant sagging or weaker skin support, your surgeon may recommend an internal mesh bra (like Galaflex) for extra support and shape retention. Think of it as giving your implants a secure, hidden hammock for long-lasting results that won't succumb to gravity over time.
Preparing for Your Surgery: Setting Yourself Up for Success
Two Weeks Before Surgery
Stop smoking completely - This is non-negotiable for proper healing.
Avoid blood-thinning medications - Including aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain supplements.
Prepare your recovery space - Set up a comfortable area with everything within arm's reach.
Stock up on supplies - Button-up shirts, sports bras, easy-to-prepare meals, and entertainment
Final Week Preparations
Confirm your support system - Make sure someone can drive you to and from surgery.
Prepare recovery meals - Soups, smoothies, and easy-to-digest foods
Create a comfort kit - Ice packs, extra pillows, and any comfort items that help you relax
Plan for time off - Most women need a few days off work, depending on their job.
What to Expect: Surgery Day and Beyond
The Day of Surgery
It’s normal to be a little nervous on the day of your procedure. Our nursing staff and anesthesia team will walk you through everything, answer last-minute questions, and help you feel comfortable. Dr. Burns will see you before surgery to review your plan and address any final concerns.
The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours. You'll wake up in recovery with your new implants in place, feeling groggy but often surprisingly comfortable thanks to modern pain management techniques.
Your First Week
Day 1-2: You'll feel pressure but not much pain, like you've done an intense chest workout. Most women are surprised that the pain is manageable with over the counter pain medication.
Day 3-5: You'll be feeling almost normal.. Many women can return to desk work by day 2-3.
Day 7: Your first follow-up appointment. You'll likely feel excited seeing your new shape, though remember—your final results will continue to evolve.
Weeks 2-6: The Settling Process
Your implants will gradually "drop and fluff"—settling into their natural position and softening. This process requires patience, as your breasts will look different week by week. Trust the process and follow your surgeon's guidance.
Months 2-6: Enjoying Your Results
By 3-6 months, you'll see your final results. Most women report feeling more confident in clothing, enjoying shopping for new styles, and feeling comfortable in their skin in ways they hadn't experienced before.
Long-Term Care: Protecting Your Investment
Annual Self-Exams
Continue monthly breast self-exams, being aware of how your implants feel when they're normal. Any significant changes in shape, firmness, or comfort should be evaluated.
MRI Screening
Current FDA guidelines recommend MRI screening for silicone implants 5-6 years after surgery, then every 2-3 years. This helps detect any silent ruptures early.
Realistic Expectations About Longevity
While implants aren't lifetime devices, many women enjoy their results for 10-15+ years without issues. Some may choose to replace them for size changes or simply to refresh their results, while others never need revision surgery.
Maintaining Your Results
-Wear supportive bras during high-impact activities
-Maintain a stable weight to preserve your results
-Protect your skin with sunscreen and moisturizer
-Stay connected with your surgeon for regular check-ups
When Breast Augmentation Might Not Be Right for You
Medical Considerations
-Active breast cancer or history requiring ongoing monitoring
-Autoimmune disorders that may affect healing
-Unrealistic expectations about results or recovery
-Severe body dysmorphia requiring psychological support first
Life Circumstances
-Recent major life changes (divorce, job loss, death in family) - grief and major decisions don't mix well.
-Planning pregnancy soon - pregnancy can significantly change your results.
-Pressure from others - this decision should be entirely yours
Signs to Wait
If you find yourself frequently changing your mind about size, placement, or timing, it might be worth taking more time to think through your decision. The right choice will feel clear and exciting, not anxiety-provoking.
Breast Implants Before and After in Dallas, Texas- Dr. John Burns
Alternative Procedures to Consider
Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation
If you want modest size increase (1-2 cup sizes) and have adequate fat for harvesting, fat transfer can provide natural-looking results. It's ideal for women who want subtle enhancement without implants. Dr. Burns is internationally recognized as a fat grafting expert. During your consult, he’ll have an honest conversation with you regarding your goals so you can feel confident with your decision about breast augmentation with either implants or using your own fat.
Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
If your main concern is sagging rather than size, a breast lift might be more appropriate. This procedure reshapes existing tissue for a more youthful appearance without adding volume.
Combination Procedures
Many women benefit from combining a small implant with a lift, or adding fat transfer to implants for the most natural-looking results. Dr. Burns can help you understand which combination might work best for your goals.
Moving Forward with Confidence
Choosing to have breast augmentation is deeply personal. Whether you want to fill out your favorite tops, restore your shape after having children, or simply align your outer appearance with how you feel inside, your reasons are valid and deserve respect.
The key is choosing a surgeon who listens to your concerns, understands your goals, and has the technical expertise to deliver results that make you feel like the best version of yourself. Dr. Burns combines artistic vision with surgical precision, using advanced techniques like 3D imaging so you can visualize your potential results before surgery.
Remember: this isn't about becoming someone else—it's about becoming more fully yourself. The right surgeon will help you feel excited, comfortable, and confident every step of the way.
Book Your Breast Augmentation Consult And Start Getting Answers
If you're ready to move from wondering "what if" to making it happen, or if you have questions that only an experienced surgeon can answer, it's time for a consultation. Dr. Burns and his team are here to listen, educate, and guide you through every aspect of your decision.
Your journey toward feeling your best starts with a conversation. Book your personalized consultation today and discover how breast augmentation can help you feel more confident, comfortable, and authentically you.
Let's Address Your Practical Concerns
"Will I be able to feel it?" Once you're healed, you won't feel the mesh at all. It becomes integrated into your tissue, then gradually dissolves away.
"Will it make recovery harder?" Recovery is quite similar to standard procedures. Some women notice slightly more initial soreness as their body adapts to the mesh, but this typically resolves within the normal healing timeframe.
"What if I have problems with it?" Like any surgical material, there are potential risks - infection, inflammation, or healing issues. However, because these materials are designed to be absorbed by your body, they don't create the long-term foreign body concerns that permanent materials might.
"How do I know if I need it?" This is exactly the kind of conversation to have with your surgeon during consultation. They can assess your tissue quality, discuss your goals, and help you understand whether additional support might benefit your specific situation.
What You Really Need to Know About Results
Here's something important that doesn't get talked about enough: no surgical technique can stop time. Your body will continue to age naturally, and that's perfectly normal. What good surgery does is give you a better starting point for that natural aging process.
Whether you choose traditional techniques or opt for additional support systems, realistic expectations are key to long-term satisfaction. Most women find that even as their bodies continue to change over the years, they're starting from a much better place and remain happy with their decisions.
Making This Decision Feel Right for You
I know this might feel overwhelming, and that's okay. Here's how to approach this in a way that builds confidence:
Take Your Time
Good surgeons won't pressure you to decide quickly. Take the time you need to research, ask questions, and feel genuinely comfortable with your choice.
Ask The Right Questions
What does this surgeon recommend specifically for your situation, and why?
What are the realistic expectations for your body type and goals?
What is their experience with the techniques they're suggesting?
Can you speak with other patients who've had similar procedures?
Trust Your Instincts
You should feel heard, respected, and comfortable with your surgeon. If something doesn't feel right, it's okay to seek another opinion.
Consider The Whole Picture
Think about the timing in your life, your support system for recovery, and how this fits with your other life goals.
A Personal Note
We want you to know that whatever you're feeling about your body right now is valid. Whether you ultimately decide on surgery or not, you deserve to feel confident and comfortable in your own skin. Surgery can be a wonderful tool for some women, but it's not the only path to feeling good about yourself.
If you do move forward with surgery, remember that the most important factors for your success aren't necessarily which specific techniques are used, but rather:
-Choosing a qualified plastic surgeon who listens to you and understands your goals
-Having realistic expectations about what surgery can and cannot do
-Taking good care of yourself before and after surgery
-Giving yourself grace during the healing process
Moving Forward with Confidence
Whether you're leaning toward traditional techniques, considering newer options like internal support systems, or still gathering information, remember that you're in control of this decision. Take the time to educate yourself, ask questions, and choose the path that feels right for your body and your life.
You deserve to feel confident in your choices and comfortable with your body. Whatever you decide, make sure it's a decision that honors who you are and what you want for yourself.
If you're ready to explore your options further, seek out board-certified plastic surgeons who specialize in breast surgery and don't hesitate to get multiple opinions. Your journey to feeling more confident in your body should be supported by professionals who respect your concerns, answer your questions thoroughly, and help you make informed decisions.
Remember: you're not just choosing a surgical technique - you're choosing how you want to feel in your own body. That's a decision worth taking seriously, and you deserve all the support and information you need to make it confidently.
About Dr. John Burns
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