What to Expect From Breast Augmentation Surgery in Cary, NC

Physician-Reviewed Content

Medical reviewer: Dr. Brian S. Coan, MD, FACS, double board-certified plastic surgeon and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. This article is based on current peer-reviewed medical literature, FDA breast implant information, and guidance from professional organizations, including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, The Aesthetic Society, and the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Breast augmentation in Apex, NC, is one of the most sought-after surgical procedures at CARE Plastic Surgery. Whether you want to restore volume after pregnancy, achieve a more balanced silhouette, or feel more confident in your body, this procedure can provide long-lasting enhancement tailored to your anatomy. However, breast implants are not lifetime devices, and additional surgery may eventually be necessary. Dr. Brian S. Coan, double board-certified plastic surgeon and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, brings over a decade of recognized surgical expertise to every consultation.

Evidence Snapshot: Breast Augmentation

• Breast augmentation can increase breast volume, improve symmetry, restore fullness after pregnancy or weight changes, and enhance overall proportions.

• Implant selection should account for the patient’s anatomy, tissue quality, goals, lifestyle, and the benefits and risks of each device.

• The FDA emphasizes that breast implants are not lifetime devices. The likelihood of complications and additional surgery increases over time.

• Potential complications include capsular contracture, implant rupture or deflation, infection, changes in sensation, implant displacement, scarring, and the possible need for revision surgery.

• Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) occurs more frequently in patients with textured implants than in those with smooth implants. Other rare cancers have also been reported in the capsule surrounding breast implants.

• Silicone implant rupture can be “silent,” meaning it may occur without obvious symptoms. Periodic imaging may be recommended, depending on current FDA guidance and the implant manufacturer’s instructions.

• An in-person consultation is necessary to determine whether implants, fat transfer, a breast lift, or a combined procedure is best suited to the patient’s goals.

Breast Augmentation in Apex: What You Need to Know

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the size, shape, and overall contour of the breasts using implants or, in some cases, fat transfer techniques. At CARE Plastic Surgery, Dr. Brian S. Coan works closely with each patient to understand her goals and recommend an approach tailored to her unique anatomy and lifestyle.

The procedure typically involves placing saline or silicone implants either beneath the breast tissue or beneath the chest muscle, depending on the patient’s body composition and desired outcome. Dr. Coan takes a precise, individualized approach to implant selection, incision placement, and pocket position, all of which influence the final appearance.

Implants can also be placed using a dual-plane approach in selected patients. The appropriate placement depends on factors such as existing breast tissue, chest-wall anatomy, skin quality, implant characteristics, physical activity, and the desired result. Each approach has potential advantages and tradeoffs that should be reviewed during consultation.

Breast augmentation may help address concerns such as naturally smaller breast size, volume loss following weight changes or breastfeeding, and asymmetry between the two sides. For patients in Apex and the surrounding Triangle region, CARE Plastic Surgery offers this procedure within a fully integrated surgical environment that includes on-site facilities and a dedicated care team from consultation through recovery.

Results from breast augmentation vary by individual, and Dr. Coan encourages all prospective patients to schedule a thorough consultation to discuss realistic expectations. Many patients also explore combining breast augmentation with a breast lift in Cary and Raleigh, NC to address both volume and position simultaneously, or as part of a broader mommy makeover that may include body contouring procedures.

Breast augmentation adds, or restores volume, but an implant alone may not adequately correct significant sagging or a low nipple position. A breast lift reshapes and elevates existing tissue but does not necessarily create the same upper-breast fullness as an implant. Dr. Coan will evaluate whether augmentation, a lift, or a combination is appropriate.

Understanding Breast Implant Choices

Saline and silicone gel-filled implants both have silicone outer shells, but they differ in filling material, feel, rupture detection, incision requirements, and available options. Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water and usually deflate noticeably if the shell fails. Silicone implants contain silicone gel and may feel more like natural breast tissue, but a rupture may not be apparent without imaging.

Implants are available in different volumes, profiles, shapes, and surface characteristics. Selecting an implant is not simply a matter of choosing a cup size. Breast width, tissue coverage, skin elasticity, chest-wall shape, existing asymmetry, and the patient’s goals must all be considered. An implant that is well suited to one patient may not be appropriate for another.

Fat-transfer breast augmentation is another option for selected patients seeking a relatively modest increase in volume. It uses fat removed from another area of the body, but not all transferred fat survives, and more than one procedure may be needed. Fat transfer also has its own risks and cannot reliably provide the same degree of enlargement as an implant.

Are You a Candidate for Breast Augmentation?

Ideal candidates for breast augmentation in Apex are adults in good overall health who have realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve. Patients should be non-smokers, or willing to stop smoking well in advance of surgery, and should not be pregnant or breastfeeding. Dr. Brian S. Coan reviews each patient’s health history, goals, and anatomy during a private consultation to determine whether breast augmentation is the most appropriate recommendation.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons notes that candidates should be physically healthy, have fully developed breasts, not be pregnant or breastfeeding, and have realistic expectations.

You may be a strong candidate if you experience any of the following:

• Breasts that feel too small or lack fullness relative to your frame

• Volume loss following pregnancy, breastfeeding, or significant weight changes

• Noticeable asymmetry between the left and right breast

• Reduced confidence in clothing or swimwear due to breast size

• A desire for a more proportionate, balanced body contour

• Stable weight and a commitment to maintaining surgical results

Candidacy also requires an understanding of implant-related risks, the possibility of future imaging, and the likelihood that another breast operation may eventually be needed. The decision should be based on your personal goals, not pressure from a partner or anyone else.

For patients who are considering multiple body concerns at once, Dr. Coan may discuss combining breast augmentation with procedures such as tummy tuck surgery in Cary and Raleigh, NC, or liposuction to address the overall figure in a single surgical setting.

Combining procedures may avoid separate operations, but it can increase operative time, recovery demands, and certain risks. A combined approach is not appropriate for every patient and should be recommended only after evaluating overall health, anatomy, and surgical goals. Individual results may vary, and candidacy is always determined on a case-by-case basis.

When Breast Augmentation May Not Be Appropriate

Breast augmentation may need to be postponed or avoided in patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have an active infection, have an untreated breast abnormality, use nicotine and cannot safely stop, or have an uncontrolled medical condition that increases surgical or anesthesia risks. Additional evaluation may also be required for a personal or family history of breast disease, abnormal breast imaging, bleeding disorders, or medications that affect healing.

Breast augmentation may not be the most appropriate procedure when the primary concern is significant sagging rather than volume. It may also be inappropriate when a patient expects perfect symmetry, believes implants will last forever, or is unwilling to accept scars, potential complications, recommended monitoring, or the possibility of future surgery.

What to Expect at CARE Plastic Surgery

Your experience at CARE Plastic Surgery begins with a thorough one-on-one consultation with Dr. Brian S. Coan. During this appointment, Dr. Coan listens carefully to your goals, reviews your medical history, and performs a physical assessment to discuss implant type, size, profile, and placement. Patients from Apex often appreciate this step most, as it removes the guesswork and replaces it with a clear, personalized surgical plan.

Your consultation should also include a discussion of incision options, implant surface and shape, anticipated scars, anesthesia, recovery, possible complications, and long-term implant monitoring. The FDA requires manufacturers to provide a patient decision checklist with approved breast implant labeling so that patients can review device-specific risks and benefits before surgery. The ASPS breast implant safety resource provides additional information about this requirement.

On the day of your breast augmentation procedure, surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, and the operating time varies according to the technique, implant placement, and whether other procedures are performed. Dr. Coan places implants with precision to support a natural-looking outcome that complements your existing anatomy.

Recovery following breast augmentation typically involves several days of rest, with most patients feeling comfortable returning to light daily activity within one to two weeks. Heavy lifting and strenuous exercise are commonly restricted for several weeks, although Dr. Coan will determine the exact timeline. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons notes that many patients gradually resume more strenuous exercise after approximately four to six weeks with their surgeon’s approval.

Temporary swelling, tightness, and sensitivity are common and expected in the early weeks following surgery. Bruising, changes in nipple or breast sensation, and a temporarily high or firm implant position may also occur. Patients should contact the practice promptly if they develop symptoms such as worsening pain, marked swelling on one side, fever, shortness of breath, drainage, or increasing redness.

One of the most common concerns patients from Apex and nearby communities share before booking is uncertainty about the recovery process. Dr. Coan and our team provide detailed aftercare instructions and remain available throughout your healing journey to monitor your progress and answer questions. Recovery experiences vary, and patients should follow their individualized postoperative instructions rather than relying solely on general timelines.

Breast Implant Safety and Long-Term Monitoring

Breast implants are medical devices that require informed decision-making and ongoing awareness. The FDA’s breast implant guidance emphasizes that implants are not lifetime devices and that the likelihood of complications increases the longer a patient has them. Implant removal, replacement, or revision may eventually be necessary because of a complication or a change in personal preference.

Possible risks include bleeding, infection, changes in nipple or breast sensation, capsular contracture, implant rupture or deflation, displacement, asymmetry, persistent pain, scarring, and the need for additional surgery. The ASPS breast augmentation safety page provides a broader list of potential complications.

BIA-ALCL is a type of lymphoma that can develop in the scar capsule or fluid surrounding an implant and occurs more frequently in patients with textured implants. The FDA has also received reports of squamous cell carcinoma and other rare lymphomas in the capsule surrounding breast implants. Persistent swelling, a new breast or armpit mass, pain, hardening, or a noticeable change in breast shape should be evaluated by a medical professional.

Silicone implant rupture may occur without symptoms. The FDA identifies MRI as the most effective method for detecting silent silicone implant rupture and recognizes ultrasound as an acceptable screening alternative for asymptomatic patients. The timing of imaging should follow current FDA recommendations, the implant manufacturer’s instructions, and Dr. Coan’s individualized guidance.

Breast implants do not eliminate the need for routine breast-cancer screening. Patients should continue age- and risk-appropriate screening and tell the imaging facility that they have implants so the appropriate mammography technique can be used.

Why Choose CARE Plastic Surgery for Breast Augmentation in Apex, NC?

Patients traveling from Apex, Holly Springs, Fuquay-Varina, Morrisville, and Cary to CARE Plastic Surgery do so because of the expertise, recognition, and personalized care Dr. Brian S. Coan consistently delivers.

Dr. Coan is a double board-certified plastic surgeon and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. You can review his credentials and professional background on the CARE Plastic Surgery About page. Patients can also use the American Board of Plastic Surgery’s certification search when researching a surgeon’s qualifications.

He has also received the MAGGY Award for Best Plastic Surgeon in Cary, NC, by Cary Magazine for eight consecutive years, Gold for Best Plastic Surgeon in the 2026 5-West Diamond Awards, and consecutive recognition as Best Plastic Surgeon in Durham by Durham Magazine every year since 2010. These honors represent recognition from regional publications and their readers.

CARE Plastic Surgery’s integrated model includes on-site surgical facilities and skinCARE Medspa, supporting coordinated care from consultation through postoperative follow-up. When you choose CARE, you are not simply choosing a procedure. You are choosing a team committed to your comfort, safety, and confidence from the first consultation through full recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Augmentation in Apex, NC

How long does breast augmentation recovery typically take?

Most patients feel comfortable returning to light daily activities within one to two weeks following breast augmentation. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting are typically restricted for approximately four to six weeks. Swelling and mild discomfort are common during the initial recovery period and tend to resolve gradually.

These are general estimates, not guarantees. Implant placement, combined procedures, occupation, activity level, health, and individual healing can affect recovery. Dr. Coan provides each patient with personalized aftercare instructions.

When will I see final results from breast augmentation?

While noticeable improvement is visible shortly after surgery, the breasts continue to change as swelling subsides, tissues relax, implants settle, and scars mature. Much of this process occurs over the first several months, although subtle changes may continue for a year or longer.

Individual results may vary, and Dr. Coan will discuss realistic expectations during your consultation so you understand your likely outcome.

Can breast augmentation be combined with other procedures?

Breast augmentation is often combined with a breast lift or as part of a mommy makeover that may include a tummy tuck, liposuction, or other body-contouring procedures. Dr. Brian S. Coan evaluates each patient’s goals and overall health to determine whether combination surgery is appropriate.

A combined procedure may avoid separate operations, but it does not guarantee less total downtime and may increase operative time and recovery demands. Safety and individualized surgical planning determine whether procedures should be combined or staged.

How long do breast implants last?

No expiration date applies to every breast implant, and implants do not automatically need replacement at a specific anniversary. However, the FDA advises that breast implants are not lifetime devices. The longer they remain in place, the greater the likelihood of complications or additional surgery.

What is the difference between saline and silicone implants?

Saline implants contain sterile salt water and generally deflate visibly if the shell fails. Silicone implants contain silicone gel and may feel different, but rupture can occur without obvious symptoms. Available sizes, profiles, incision considerations, monitoring recommendations, and FDA-approved age indications also differ. Dr. Coan can explain which options are available and appropriate for your anatomy.

Can breast implants interfere with mammograms?

Implants can obscure some breast tissue on a standard mammogram. Patients should tell the imaging center they have implants so they can use additional implant-displacement views and appropriate techniques. Breast augmentation does not replace routine screening, and patients should follow the screening schedule recommended for their age and individual risk.

Will I be able to breastfeed after breast augmentation?

Some patients can breastfeed after augmentation, but no surgeon can guarantee future milk production. Breastfeeding ability may be influenced by incision placement, surgical technique, existing anatomy, pregnancy-related changes, and factors unrelated to surgery. Patients who may want to breastfeed in the future should discuss this goal during consultation.

Will breast augmentation correct sagging?

An implant may improve fullness and address limited deflation, but it does not reliably correct significant skin laxity or a low nipple position. Patients with meaningful sagging may need a breast lift with or without implants.

What is capsular contracture?

The body naturally forms scar tissue, called a capsule, around an implant. Capsular contracture occurs when that tissue tightens around the device, potentially causing firmness, discomfort, distortion, or implant displacement. Treatment depends on severity and may require additional surgery.

What symptoms could indicate an implant problem?

New or persistent swelling, pain, firmness, asymmetry, a breast or armpit lump, changes in implant position, or a noticeable change in breast size or shape should be evaluated. Sudden loss of volume may indicate saline implant deflation, while silicone rupture can be silent. Not every breast change is implant-related, so appropriate medical evaluation is important.

What is BIA-ALCL?

Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma is an uncommon cancer of the immune system that can develop in the fluid or capsule surrounding an implant. It is not breast cancer and has occurred more frequently in patients with textured implants. Patients should review the FDA’s breast implant risks and complications information and discuss device-specific risks with Dr. Coan.

Do breast implants cause “breast implant illness”?

Some patients with implants report systemic symptoms such as fatigue, joint or muscle pain, difficulty concentrating, memory changes, or rash and may refer to them as breast implant illness. The causes are not fully understood, and breast implant illness is not currently a formal medical diagnosis. Some patients report improvement after implant removal, while others do not. These symptoms warrant an individualized medical evaluation.

What questions should I ask during my consultation?

Ask about Dr. Coan’s recommendations for implant type, size, profile, placement, incision location, anesthesia, recovery, scars, long-term monitoring, and possible complications. You should also ask how revisions or implant-related concerns are handled, and review the manufacturer’s patient decision checklist and labeling before deciding.

References and Supporting Evidence

1. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Breast Implants.

2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Things to Consider Before Getting Breast Implants.

3. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Risks and Complications of Breast Implants.

4. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. What to Know About Breast Implants.

5. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Breast Augmentation Candidates.

6. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Breast Augmentation Risks and Safety.

7. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Breast Implant Safety.

8. The Aesthetic Society. Breast Augmentation Patient Education Brochure.

9. American Board of Plastic Surgery. Is Your Surgeon Certified?.

10. Parham CS, et al. Advising Patients About Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma.

11. CARE Plastic Surgery. About Dr. Brian S. Coan and CARE Plastic Surgery.

Contact Us

If you are considering breast augmentation in Apex, NC, CARE Plastic Surgery is ready to guide you through every step of the process. Dr. Brian S. Coan and our team are committed to helping you achieve natural-looking, confidence-building results in a caring, expert environment. Complete the online form to schedule your personal consultation.

Patient Education Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, establish a physician-patient relationship, or replace an in-person consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Treatment eligibility, implant selection, risks, benefits, recovery, monitoring, and anticipated results vary by patient and should be discussed with a qualified medical professional.