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About Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation involves increasing the size and enhancing the shape of the breasts with implants. The procedure involves placing implants, typically filled with saline or silicone gel, behind the breast tissue or the chest muscle. 

  • Average Cost: $10,500 to $11,500
  • Typical Recovery Period: Four to Six Weeks
  • Discomfort Level: Relatively Moderate
  • Anesthesia Options: Local, General, or IV Sedation
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What Is Breast Augmentation?

A breast augmentation is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to enhance the size, shape, volume, and overall symmetry of the breasts. It is most commonly performed using breast implants or, in select cases, fat transfer from the patient’s own body.

At its core, breast augmentation is a highly personalized procedure. It is not simply about increasing breast size, but about creating natural-looking balance and harmony between the breasts, chest, waist, and overall figure. When performed with precision and artistry, the results can look soft, proportionate, and beautifully natural.

woman with a bathing suit and big hat on

Transaxillary breast augmentation surgery: virtually scarless.

Dr. Graw performs the most advanced breast augmentation techniques in Palo Alto, including being fully experienced in the transaxillary approach, which is achieved with incisions in the underarm, rather than in the breast crease, for a virtually scarless augmentation.

Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Breast Augmentation in Palo Alto?

You may be an excellent candidate for breast augmentation in Palo Alto if you are in good overall health and are seeking to enhance the size, shape, or symmetry of your breasts. This procedure is ideal for women who feel their breasts do not reflect their body proportions or who have experienced changes due to life events.

Ideal candidates typically:

  • Are physically healthy and at a stable weight
  • Do not smoke, or are you willing to stop smoking before and after surgery
  • Have fully developed breasts
  • Are finished with pregnancy and breastfeeding (or understand how future changes may affect results)
  • Feel their breasts are too small, asymmetrical, or lack fullness
  • Have experienced volume loss due to pregnancy, weight loss, or aging
  • Have realistic expectations and desire natural-looking enhancement

During your consultation, Dr. Graw will carefully evaluate your anatomy, skin quality, lifestyle, and aesthetic goals to determine whether breast augmentation — or a combination approach — is best for you.

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Types of breast implants

Breast augmentation can be performed with two basic types of implants, saline or silicone. Both types have a silicone shell.

Saline implants

Saline implants are far more natural in weight and feel than they were in the past. These implants have an advantage, as they are filled after being placed, allowing for ultimate customization. The latest developments in aesthetic technology have led to the development of saline implants with a series of silicone shells nestled in a series, controlling the movement of the saline solution for a more natural feel and weight. 

Advantages of saline implants

One of the reasons many women choose saline implants is that if ruptured (which is rare), the saline solution is absorbed by the body. For women who have concerns regarding silicone and the body, these implants are a beautiful alternative. 

Silicone implants

Silicone implants are considered to have a more natural feel, and both small and medium-sized implants can be placed with the transaxillary (through the underarm) technique. For larger implants, an incision is placed in the breast crease, and the implants placed beneath the chest muscles to create a smooth, long-lasting and natural-looking result.

Benefits of silicone implants

Silicone implants mimic the density of natural breast tissue, and when put in place by a world-class plastic surgeon, can create an appearance that cannot be identified as being achieved with surgery. Creating a superior result requires determining the ideal shape, size, and projection for the implants for beautiful balance and harmony between the breasts and the rest of the body.

Virtually scarless breast augmentation technique

These implants can be placed with the most advanced technique, called “transaxillary,” through smaller incisions hidden in the armpit crease. Dr. Graw is fully experienced in this technique, and one of the few Palo Alto plastic surgeons who regularly performs this advanced breast augmentation surgery.

Comparison of Implant Types
Feature Saline Implants Silicone Implants
Feel Lighter, natural when using modern designs Closely mimics natural breast tissue
Rupture Saline is absorbed safely by the body Silicone gel remains in the shell; rupture may require replacement
Incision Options Can be placed via underarm or breast crease Small and medium sizes can use underarm; larger sizes usually via breast crease
Customization Filled after placement for precise sizing Pre-filled, available in various shapes and projections
Cost Often slightly lower than silicone Slightly higher, depending on type and size

This side-by-side helps patients understand the differences and choose the option that best suits their body and lifestyle.

Before & After

Patient or Procedure filler text here.

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Incision Options & Placement

Breast implants can be placed using several incision techniques to minimize scarring:

  • Transaxillary (underarm) – Small incision in the natural crease of the armpit; leaves breasts virtually scarless.
  • Inframammary (breast crease) – Small incision under the breast; provides direct access and is ideal for larger implants.
  • Periareolar (around the nipple) – Incision along the edge of the areola; less commonly used but can be effective for specific cases.

Implant placement can also vary:

  • Subglandular (behind breast tissue, above chest muscle)
  • Submuscular (behind chest muscle) – Often preferred for larger implants or for women with thinner breast tissue
  • Dual-plane (partially under muscle) – Combines benefits of both approaches for a natural look

Dr. Graw will recommend the best incision and placement based on your anatomy and aesthetic goals.

Woman lying in bed in bra and underwear showing off cleveage

Fat transfer–using your tissue for augmentation!

Dr. Graw is a big fan of using your tissue for augmentation if you are a good candidate. The main advantages of fat transfer are as follows:

  • No implants
  • 1-cm incisions
  • Using your tissue allows your breasts to grow or decrease with your body, depending on the rest of your body’s state.
  • Areas from which fat is harvested benefit from Dr. Graw’s specialized liposculpting techniques

Breast augmentation – it’s more than cosmetic.

Dr. Graw performs custom breast augmentations in Palo Alto, which is more than a cosmetic procedure. This procedure can be performed to resolve an array of breast issues, including:

  • Small breasts
  • Asymmetrical breasts 
  • Tuberous breasts
  • Breasts that have lost volume due to weight loss
  • Breasts that have lost volume after breastfeeding
  • Any unusual shape or size
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The procedure 

Breast augmentation requires an incision point through which the implant is placed. Most plastic surgeons take the most straightforward approach, placing incisions in the breast crease. While this approach allows for full access to the breast structure and may be correct for some women, in many cases, the incision can be placed in the armpit for a virtually scarless outcome. 

Achieve Superior Results in Breast Augmentation servicing Palo Alto, Menlo Park, & Atherton:

To create the most attractive, natural-looking outcome, breast augmentation, Dr. Graw goes through these steps:

  • A discussion with you about your aesthetic vision for your body.
  • Measuring chest width, natural breast width, and the frame to determine the ideal volume, size, and projection.
  • A complete discussion regarding your options in implants, either saline or silicone.
  • A surgical plan is discussed, such as implant placement, which can be behind the breast tissue, behind the chest muscle, or a combination approach.
  • A discussion with regard to whether combining a breast augmentation with a breast lift would be ideal for your situation.
  • Discuss what to expect in recovery time, discomfort, and any other issues of concern.
  • A custom surgical plan crafted to reflect your unique aesthetic needs.
  • Surgery date scheduled.

    Dr. Graw's expertise and professionalism were evident from the moment I walked in. Their knowledge and understanding of the procedures were remarkable, and they took the time to thoroughly explain everything, addressing all my concerns and answering all my questions. 

    L.D.

    Timeline to breast augmentation recovery

    Week one

    You will need to sleep on your back. No heavy lifting or raising your arms above your head. You will have prescription pain medication to keep you comfortable in the initial stages, but this is a brief period, after which just Tylenol should suffice. You will have a follow-up appointment with Dr. Graw in the first week, to ensure your recovery is proceeding well. Follow all aftercare instructions, and get help from a friend or family member if you have small children – you can’t lift them for 4 weeks.

    Week two

    Most people return to work within a few days, but if you typically engage in vigorous physical exercise, sports, or other activities, you must alter your lifestyle to allow the incisions fully heal. Dr. Graw will give you permission to return to yoga, lifting weights, or other exercise, but regular walks can help speed healing.

    Week three

    Your breast implants will be settling into place. Your breasts may still feel firm, but any bruising has usually faded. You can return to cycling and lower body workouts but avoid any activity that causes your new breasts to bounce.

    Week six

    Your breasts now feel softer, look attractive, and the nipples are settling into the right location, centered on the breast mound. Some asymmetries could remain but are fading quickly. You can return to sports, jogging, running, and upper body workouts without worry, once given the okay by Dr. Graw. 

    Week eight

    Your breasts are starting to achieve their final look, are softer, and you are likely able to finally go bra shopping! 

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    Why choose Dr. Graw for your Breast Augmentation in Palo Alto?

    Dr. Graw pursued an education at some of the nation’s most revered universities, including the Johns Hopkins University, Harvard Medical School, and Stanford Hospital and Clinics. And she further enhanced her skills under the tutelage of world-class plastic surgeons in Beverly Hills, CA. Her experience, knowledge, and personal touch transcend expectations.

    And, as a mother of two young children, she understands the challenges women face after pregnancy and breastfeeding or with age-related breast changes.

    Dr. Graw smiling with green plants in the background

    Breast Augmentation Cost in Palo Alto

    The average cost of breast augmentation at Graw Beauty ranges from $10,500 to $11,500. This price can vary depending on several factors, including:

    • Type of implant chosen (saline vs. silicone)
    • Surgical technique (traditional incision vs. transaxillary)
    • Anesthesia type (local, general, or IV sedation)
    • Whether a breast lift or fat transfer is performed at the same time
    • Surgeon’s expertise and credentials
    • Your consultation with Dr. Graw will include a personalized cost estimate based on your unique surgical plan.

    Does insurance cover breast augmentation?

    Since breast augmentation is considered a cosmetic procedure, it is generally not covered by insurance. However, reconstructive breast surgery related to mastectomy or congenital breast deformities may be covered in some cases.

    Financing options

    Graw Beauty offers financing and payment plan options to make breast augmentation in Palo Alto more accessible. Our team can guide you through available monthly payment plans that fit your budget.

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    Combination Procedures

    Some patients choose to combine breast augmentation with other procedures to enhance overall results:

    • Breast Lift (Mastopexy) – Lifts and reshapes sagging breasts while adding volume
    • Fat Transfer – Uses your own tissue to add subtle volume or correct asymmetry
    • Body Contouring – Liposuction or tummy tuck can complement your new breast shape for balanced proportions

    Combining procedures can reduce overall recovery time while providing a cohesive transformation.

    Breast Augmentation in Palo Alto FAQ

    How do I know if I’m a good candidate for breast augmentation?

    What types of breast implants are available?

    What is the transaxillary breast augmentation technique?

    Is fat transfer breast augmentation an option?

    How long does recovery from breast augmentation take?

    Will my results look natural?

    Can breast augmentation correct asymmetry or unusual breast shapes?

    How long do breast implants last?

    Will I need a breast lift with my augmentation?

    Can I breastfeed after breast augmentation?

    How do I choose the right implant size?

    How often should implants be checked or replaced?

    How do I know if I’m a good candidate for breast augmentation?

    You may be a good candidate if you are in good overall health, have realistic expectations, and would like to enhance the size, shape, or symmetry of your breasts. Breast augmentation is also an excellent option for women who have lost volume after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss.

    What types of breast implants are available?

    Dr. Graw offers both saline and silicone implants, each with unique benefits. Saline implants allow for customized sizing after placement and are safely absorbed by the body in the rare case of rupture. Silicone implants are known for their natural look and feel and are often preferred for creating results that closely mimic natural breast tissue.

    What is the transaxillary breast augmentation technique?

    The transaxillary technique involves making a small incision in the natural crease of the underarm, leaving the breasts virtually scarless. Dr. Graw is highly experienced in this advanced approach, making her one of the few surgeons in Palo Alto who regularly performs it.

    Is fat transfer breast augmentation an option?

    Yes. If you are a good candidate, Dr. Graw can use your own fat—harvested with specialized liposculpting techniques—to enhance your breast size and shape. This option avoids implants and allows your breasts to naturally change with your body over time.

    How long does recovery from breast augmentation take?

    Most patients can return to light activities or work within a few days, but full recovery takes about six weeks. During this time, you will gradually regain your normal lifestyle, with Dr. Graw providing guidance on when it’s safe to resume exercise, lifting, and sports.

    Will my results look natural?

    Yes. Dr. Graw specializes in creating balanced, natural-looking results by customizing implant size, shape, and placement for each patient’s body proportions. Many patients find that their breasts look and feel so natural that others can’t tell they’ve had surgery.

    Can breast augmentation correct asymmetry or unusual breast shapes?

    Absolutely. Beyond adding volume, breast augmentation can correct issues such as asymmetrical breasts, tuberous breasts, or breasts that have lost shape due to aging or pregnancy.

    How long do breast implants last?

    While breast implants are not considered lifetime devices, many patients enjoy their results for 10–15 years or longer. Regular follow-ups with Dr. Graw will help ensure your implants remain in good condition and allow for timely replacement if needed.

    Will I need a breast lift with my augmentation?

    In some cases, especially if your breasts have sagging or stretched skin, combining a breast augmentation with a breast lift creates the most youthful and balanced outcome. Dr. Graw will evaluate your anatomy and discuss the best surgical plan during your consultation.

    Can I breastfeed after breast augmentation?

    Yes. Most women can successfully breastfeed after implants. Placement behind the muscle or tissue typically preserves milk ducts. Dr. Graw will discuss the best approach if breastfeeding is a priority.

    How do I choose the right implant size?

    Choosing the ideal implant involves evaluating your chest width, breast base, frame, and aesthetic goals. Dr. Graw uses measurements, imaging, and patient preferences to recommend a size that looks natural and balanced.

    How often should implants be checked or replaced?

    Breast implants are not lifetime devices. Regular follow-ups are recommended every 1–2 years to monitor for any changes. Many implants last 10–15 years, though replacement may be needed sooner in some cases due to rupture or personal preference.

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