Awake Breast Augmentation and Lift
in Long Island, NY

At Age Focus in Long Island, NY, awake breast augmentation offers a refined approach that blends precision with comfort, allowing patients to remain conscious while benefiting from local anesthesia. This technique supports subtle breast adjustments during surgery, contributing to natural-looking results tailored to individual anatomy. The procedure emphasizes a balance between aesthetic goals and patient safety, avoiding the complexities of general anesthesia. With careful attention to detail, each case is managed to optimize recovery and long-term satisfaction from larger breasts.

What is Awake Breast
Augmentation & Lift?

Awake breast augmentation and lift is a cosmetic procedure performed while the patient remains conscious and relaxed under local anesthesia. It combines breast enhancement with a lift to improve both size and shape in a single session. Unlike traditional surgery under general anesthesia, this approach involves less risk and shortens the recovery period. The technique is designed to reshape the breasts while adding volume using implants.
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Types of Breast Implants for Augmentation

Silicone Implants

Silicone implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel that closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. They are a popular choice for breast augmentation due to their soft, smooth texture and natural appearance. These implants come in a variety of shapes and sizes, allowing for a customized look that suits each patient’s body. They require regular monitoring, often through imaging, to check for silent ruptures since leaks may not be immediately noticeable. Silicone implants are FDA-approved for patients aged 22 and older.
Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater and offer a firmer feel compared to silicone implants. They are inserted empty and then filled during surgery, which allows for smaller incisions and minor size adjustments. If a saline implant leaks, the body safely absorbs the fluid, and the deflation is immediately noticeable. These implants tend to be round and may be more prone to rippling under the skin, especially in patients with thinner breast tissue. Saline implants are FDA-approved for patients aged 18 and older.
Gummy bear implants, also known as form-stable or cohesive gel implants, maintain their shape even if the outer shell breaks. They are filled with a thicker silicone gel that provides a firmer feel and a teardrop shape for a more anatomical appearance. These implants are designed to maintain their position more effectively over time, thereby reducing the risk of sagging or distortion. Because of their density, gummy bear implants typically require a slightly longer incision for placement. They are ideal for patients looking for a long-lasting shape with a natural slope.

Incision Types for Lift

Crescent Incision

Crescent incision involves a small, curved cut along the upper half of the areola, making it the least invasive option for a breast lift. This technique is typically used for women with minimal sagging who need only a slight lift. The scar blends well with the natural border of the areola, making it discreet once healed. Because of its limited reach, it is not suitable for correcting more significant drooping. It is often chosen when a breast lift is combined with augmentation.
Donut incision, also known as a periareolar incision, circles the entire outer edge of the areola. It’s a common choice for women with mild to moderate drooping who want to elevate the nipple and tighten the surrounding tissue. The resulting scar is hidden around the areola’s natural border, minimizing its visibility. This technique can also reduce the size of the areola if needed. It offers a balance between minimal scarring and moderate lifting.
Lollipop incision is used for women with moderate to more noticeable drooping breasts. It involves two incisions: one around the areola and another vertical incision that extends down to the breast crease. This approach enables greater reshaping of the breast and repositioning of the nipple to a more youthful position. The vertical scar is visible but typically fades over time and can be concealed under clothing or swimwear. It provides more lift than the crescent or donut techniques without the extensive scarring of more advanced methods.
Anchor incision is the most extensive breast lift technique and is used for significant sagging or drooping breasts. It includes three incisions: one around the areola, one vertical incision down to the breast fold, and a horizontal incision along the breast crease. This method allows for the greatest degree of reshaping and tissue removal, making it ideal for larger breasts or more dramatic changes. While it leaves more scarring, the incisions are strategically placed to be as discreet as possible. Anchor lifts provide powerful results for patients with advanced ptosis.

Breast Lift Consultation

Preparation for awake breast augmentation and lift begins with a personal consultation, during which Dr. Gargiulo reviews the patient’s medical history and evaluates the extent of breast sagging. This initial meeting also involves a discussion of available surgical options, including whether saline or silicone implants are most appropriate for the desired outcome. Before-and-after photos may be shared to help visualize potential results and set realistic expectations. Based on the examination and aesthetic goals, Dr. Gargiulo creates a personalized treatment plan tailored to the individual’s needs. This careful planning ensures both safety and satisfaction with the final result.

Breast Augmentation & Lift: A Step-by-Step Procedure

Anesthesia
Awake breast augmentation & lift is performed under local anesthesia with oral sedation, allowing the patient to remain conscious yet comfortable throughout the procedure. This approach avoids the need for general anesthesia while minimizing discomfort and anxiety during surgery.
Once anesthesia takes effect, Dr. Gargiulo begins by creating a pocket for the implant, either above or below the chest muscle. Saline or silicone implants are then inserted to enhance volume and shape. Care is taken to preserve breast sensation by avoiding unnecessary disruption to the surrounding nerves and tissues.
The lifting portion involves tightening the skin and reshaping the breast contour to achieve a more youthful appearance. After removing excess skin, Dr. Gargiulo repositions the breast tissue and adjusts the nipple position for symmetry and improved projection. Depending on the level of sagging, different incision patterns may be used to support these adjustments.
Once the implants are in place and the lift is complete, the incisions are meticulously closed with layered sutures. The overall goal is to achieve natural-looking results with minimal scarring while preserving sensation and maintaining proper nipple placement. The patient remains awake but relaxed during this final stage.

Add-On Cosmetic Procedures

Liposuction

Liposuction is a popular add-on surgery often performed in conjunction with an implant procedure to enhance overall body contours. Many women choose to address stubborn fat deposits in areas such as the abdomen, flanks, or thighs simultaneously with their breast augmentation and lift. Dr. Gargiulo utilizes power-assisted liposuction, which offers greater precision and efficiency by breaking up fat with rapid vibrations before removal. This method allows for smoother results with less trauma to the surrounding tissue. By combining procedures, patients can achieve more balanced proportions in a single surgical session.
Brazilian butt lift is a cosmetic surgery that involves transferring fat from one area of the body to the buttocks to enhance volume and shape. The fat is typically harvested through liposuction, purified, and then strategically injected into different layers of the buttocks for a fuller, lifted appearance. This procedure is often paired with breast surgeries for a complete transformation of the upper and lower body. Since it uses the patient’s own fat, the results tend to look and feel natural. Brazilian butt lift requires careful planning to ensure long-lasting, symmetrical outcomes.
Facial fat transfer involves the careful harvesting of fat from one area of the body and injecting it into the face to restore volume and smooth out fine lines. This technique offers a natural alternative to dermal fillers by using the patient’s own tissue. It is often used to rejuvenate areas such as the cheeks, under the eyes, or the nasolabial folds. When combined with other procedures, facial fat transfer can enhance overall harmony and balance. The transferred fat not only adds volume but may also improve skin texture and tone over time.

Recovery After Awake Breast Augmentation & Lift

First 24 Hours
During the initial recovery period, rest and limited movement are crucial to allow the body to begin the healing process. Mild discomfort, tightness, and swelling are common and typically managed with prescribed medications. A surgical bra is worn immediately after the procedure to support the breasts and reduce strain on the incisions. Most patients remain alert and comfortable since general anesthesia is not used, which may lead to a smoother immediate post-operative experience.
Swelling and bruising may persist, but most patients begin to resume light daily activities within the first week. The surgical bra is worn continuously to maintain proper positioning and minimize movement. Follow-up appointments during this time help monitor the healing process and ensure incisions are clean and intact. Pain gradually decreases, but strenuous activities and heavy lifting must still be avoided.
By the second and third weeks, swelling starts to subside, and energy levels begin to return to normal. While many patients feel better, the surgical bra remains necessary to support ongoing tissue recovery. Avoiding weight fluctuations and maintaining a steady routine can help protect the results during this sensitive phase. The healing process continues internally, even if external signs of surgery are less visible.
After six weeks, physical restrictions are gradually lifted, and patients may return to low-impact exercise with their surgeon’s approval. Heavy lifting and high-impact activities should still be approached cautiously. Incision lines begin to fade, and the breasts settle into their new shape. Long-term care and maintaining a stable body weight contribute significantly to achieving the expected outcomes of the procedure.
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Candidates for Awake Breast Augmentation & Lift

Awake breast augmentation & lift can be an appropriate option for a variety of individuals with specific cosmetic goals and physical characteristics. The procedure is often considered by women seeking combined enhancement and elevation of the breasts due to changes in volume or shape. Factors such as weight loss, aging, and natural development may contribute to concerns that lead patients to explore this surgical option.
Candidates typically share common physical traits that make them suitable for this type of enhancement.

Benefits of Awake Breast Augmentation & Lift

Undergoing an awake breast augmentation and lift offers a range of advantages that appeal to many patients seeking breast enhancement and reshaping. These benefits contribute to both the aesthetic outcome and the overall experience of the procedure. The approach combines several positive aspects that make it a preferred option for suitable candidates.
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Cost of Awake Breast Augmentation & Lift in Long Island, NY

The cost of awake breast augmentation and lift in Long Island ranges from $7,000 to $15,000, depending on various factors such as the surgeon’s experience, facility fees, and the type of implant used. Board-certified plastic surgeons tend to charge higher costs due to their expertise and commitment to safety and quality outcomes.
Patients interested in this procedure are encouraged to schedule a consultation to receive a personalized cost estimate and discuss all relevant details. This enables a clear understanding of the investment involved and helps ensure the best possible outcomes.

Experience Our Excellent Breast Lift Procedures Combined With Augmentation

With decades of experience performing breast lifts, Dr. Gargiulo offers top-notch care by combining surgical breast lift and augmentation to achieve beautiful, natural results. This approach enables simultaneous reshaping and volume enhancement, addressing multiple concerns in a single surgery. Patients benefit from Dr. Gargiulo’s skilled technique and personalized attention, ensuring that each procedure is tailored to individual goals. The combination of lift and augmentation can restore youthful contours while enhancing overall breast appearance. Dr. Gargiulo’s extensive background provides confidence and excellent outcomes for those seeking comprehensive breast rejuvenation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When is it best to combine a breast lift surgery with augmentation?
Combining a breast lift with augmentation is often recommended in plastic surgery when patients have sagging breasts along with a desire to increase volume. The lift addresses excess skin and repositions the breast tissue to a more youthful position, while the augmentation restores fullness and volume. A customized surgical plan is essential to balance both goals and achieve harmonious, natural-looking results.
The longevity of breast lift results depends on several factors. Most women can expect an improved breast shape to last for many years after the surgical procedure. Maintaining a stable weight and avoiding significant weight gain can help preserve the lifted appearance. While aging and gravity continue to affect the breasts, the results typically remain noticeable for 10 years or more.
Fat transfer breast augmentation utilizes the patient’s own breast tissue and fat harvested from other areas of the body. However, the maximum increase in breast volume is generally moderate compared to implant-based augmentation. This technique is ideal for subtle enhancement and contour refinement rather than dramatic size changes. After the initial improvement and fat integration, patients can expect an increase of up to 1 cup size.
The cost of a breast lift without augmentation varies from $4,000 to $9,000, depending on factors such as the surgeon’s experience and the specific surgical techniques used. Experienced plastic surgeons may charge higher fees that reflect their skill and the quality of care provided. Facility fees and geographic location can also influence pricing.
Potential risks following a breast lift with augmentation are similar to other surgical procedures and may include swelling, bruising, and discomfort lasting a few weeks. As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection, scarring, or changes in nipple sensation. Close follow-up during the recovery period helps ensure any complications are addressed promptly.
While a breast lift with augmentation can improve breast shape and volume, it does not explicitly target stretch marks. However, in some cases, removing excess skin during the lift may reduce the appearance of stretch marks on the lower breast area. Achieving desired results regarding stretch marks often requires additional treatments beyond this surgery.