Breast Augmentation

Saline or silicone implants for women of all shapes and sizes in Nashville & Memphis

What is a Breast Augmentation?

A breast augmentation (mammoplasty) is a cosmetic surgery for the placement of implants to improve both the volume and shape of your breasts. Breast implants can give you the larger, fuller and perkier breasts you have always wanted. You have a choice of silicone or saline implants from a wide range of FDA-approved types and shapes.

Breast augmentations are performed at NuBody Concepts in Nashville and Memphis at our fully-equipped plastic surgery centers by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon with over 25 years of experience. Whether you are looking for new breast implants or implant removal or exchange, schedule a consultation with our plastic surgeon today to discuss your options!


Each patient is unique. Our plastic surgeon will meet with you in a consultation to develop a personalized treatment plan.


Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Both saline and silicone implants are FDA-approved. All our implants are manufactured in the United States. Read all about breast implant safety and risks. Also visit our supplier websites for MentorSientra, and Ideal implants.

Additional background on the safety of silicone implants: Silicone implants were introduced in 1962 and became instantly popular. In 1992 the FDA restricted their use to reconstructive surgery which took them off the market for cosmetic surgery. Though no deficiency was evident, this was based on the suspicion in some circles that there might be a link to certain diseases and immunological disorders. No such links were ever established. After extensive and exhaustive research, silicone gel implants were re-approved for general use in 2006. They have only gained in popularity since then. But the temporary restriction has resulted in some lingering doubts with people still asking if they are safe.

At NuBody Concepts we offer both choices. While silicone implants are more common, we do offer saline implants as an alternative. Some of our patients select saline implants because they are a more affordable option and can be inserted through a smaller incision around the areola/nipple. Silicone implants are generally considered to have a nicer shape and feel. We also offer structured implants for those who want the advantages of both. Read about silicione vs saline implants and their pros and cons.

The cost of breast implants varies by plastic surgeon and type of implant. Silicone implants are more expensive than saline implants. It is important to compare total cost, as some surgeons may charge extra fess for facility use and anesthesia in addition to their quoted price. Read all about the cost of breast implants.

It is important to consider all factors when deciding on the size of breast implants, such as your lifestyle, the desired shape of the implants, and the plastic surgeon’s experience with many different body types. Learn more about choosing the right implant size for you.

Gummy bear implants, also known as highly-cohesive gel implants, are a type of silicone implant that has a denser texture that allows the implant to retain its shape over longer time periods. They are a great option for breast reconstruction where lost tissue must be replaced but can also be a good option for cosmetic breast augmentation. Learn more about the pros and cons of gummy bear implants.

Highly-cohesive (aka “gummy bear”) breast implants are often teardrop shaped to better mimic the natural slope of the breast. While this may be a desirable feature, they also come with a textured vs smooth surface so they do not rotate, which has some advantages but also disadvantages. Learn all about breast implant types.

No. Breast implants only require IV sedation and local anesthesia. This has the benefit of a faster recovery, lower cost of the procedure, and less of the risks associated with general anesthesia. Also read about risks and safety of breast augmentation.

Since we don’t use general anesthesia for your breast surgery, your recovery time is reduced from 2 weeks to approximately 3-5 days. However, we advise patients to abstain from strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for a minimum of 2 weeks. Read all about breast augmentation recovery week by week.

For the first 3-5 days your breasts will likely be swollen. You may also experience itching and burning sensations, and/or twinges that come and go. And you will likely feel very sore the day after surgery. All of this is normal and typically only lasts a few days as the swelling will gradually subside. Most patients do not report a lot of pain during their recovery. Learn more about recovery from breast implant surgery.

When a saline implant ruptures, the saline solution empties and is absorbed by the body. This is entirely harmless, but the implant will have to be replaced for aesthetic reasons. This is done with a so-called breast implant exchange surgery.

When a silicone implant ruptures, it retains its shape. However, you will still want to have it replaced to prevent any long-term exposure of the body to any leaked material. Because it is harder to detect silicone rupture, the FDA now requires regular screenings every few years. Please contact our office to set up your screening scan or if you aren’t sure when you need one.

You will need to schedule breast implant removal surgery to remove any unwanted implants.

The x-rays used for mammograms can in fact have trouble going through either saline or silicone implants so that it’s more difficult to get a good image of your breast tissue. However, a good mammogram technician (like at any “Breast Imaging Center of Excellence”) can use techniques that push the implant to the side to get a better picture. In cases where a good screening cannot be performed with a mammogram, there is also the option of an MRI.

Please contact our office if you are due for your FDA-mandated screening of your silicone implant.

As with a mammogram, it is important to inform your cardiologist of your implants before having an electrocardiogram (EKG). While breast implants do not increase the risk of heart attack in any way, they could affect reading accuracy. If you are concerned, you might consider a baseline EKG before undergoing breast surgery.

It is entirely safe to breastfeed with implants. Getting breast implants does not generally affect your ability to breastfeed. The implants are typically placed behind the milk glands or under the chest muscles so that milk supply isn’t affected. In addition, the FDA has conducted studies to measure silicone levels in breast milk and has found no traces of it.


Breast Augmentation Testimonials