Known for natural, aesthetic results and an unrivaled dedication to his patients, Dr. Steven L. Ringler will walk you through every step of your breast augmentation in Michigan – from your initial consultation to your post-operative care – ensuring that you feel taken care of throughout your experience.
What is breast augmentation surgery?
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure used to enhance the size, shape, and symmetry of the breasts. Most commonly, the procedure is performed with the use of silicone or saline breast implants, which are customized to meet the unique needs of the patient. In some cases, breast augmentation can also be done using a process called fat transfer, which involves removing excess fat from a different area of the body and injecting it into the breasts.
Am I a candidate for breast augmentation?
The following are some common reasons why you may want to consider breast augmentation:
- You believe your breasts are too small for your body.
- You feel self-conscious wearing a swimsuit or form-fitting or low-cut tops.
- Clothes that fit your hips are too large at the bust line.
- Your breasts do not fill out your brassiere.
- Your breasts have become smaller or less firm after you've had children.
- Your breasts have become smaller due to weight loss.
- One of your breasts is noticeably smaller than the other - asymmetry.
- You have sagging breasts, which may benefit from both augmentation and a breast lift.
If you are in good health, have a positive attitude and realistic expectations, you are most likely a good candidate for this procedure.
Customize your breasts
A new body that’s uniquely yours
Enhance your breast size or volume, improve the shape or firmness of your chest, and create a totally natural appearance through breast augmentation with Dr. Ringler. Your individualized plan includes:
- Selection of the type of implant (silicone, saline or IDEAL Structured Saline Implant)
- Shape and volume of your breast implants, depending on your desired results
- Positioning of the breast implant, which is determined by your natural breast tissue, fitness level, and lifestyle choices
Every woman is unique. As such, your breast augmentation in Michigan will be tailored to fit your goals and body. There are decisions and trade-offs you will make based on the type of implant you choose. All of these factors will be fully discussed during your consultation at the Center for Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery.
Breast Augmentation Videos
What Are the Benefits of Breast Augmentation?
Arguably the most significant benefit of breast augmentation is enhanced self-esteem. When you love your new, shapelier figure, you'll feel more confident about yourself and the image you're presenting to the world around you.
Breast augmentation has many benefits for the right candidate, including the following:
- Restores breasts following a mastectomy
- Restores natural volume lost to pregnancy and extensive weight loss
- Provides symmetry to asymmetrical breasts
- Minimal recovery
- Increased clothing options because you'll feel more confident in how your chest fills out low-cut tops, dresses, and bathing suits
- Long-lasting results
- More attractive cleavage
- A more youthful silhouette
- We can combine it with other procedures, such as a breast lift or as part of a Mommy Makeover
Saline, Silicone, or IDEAL Implant:
Which breast implants are right for you?
Silicone breast implants
These are composed of a silicone shell filled with silicone gel. They look and feel very natural. A future rupture may go undetected because the gel will remain within the scar tissue capsule which forms around the implant during healing, (often referred to as a silent rupture). They are FDA approved.
Saline implants
These are composed of a silicone shell, filled with sterile salt water. If a rupture occurs, the entire implant will collapse and the saline will be harmlessly absorbed. These are also FDA approved.
IDEAL Implants
are structured breast implants and the newest implants on the market. They consist of a series of implant shells nested together, and two separate chambers that hold the saline. It is made with standard implant materials, yet uses an advanced internal structure to control movement of the saline and support the implant edges to reduce collapse and wrinkling. IDEAL Implants give you the natural look and feel of a silicone breast implant without the worry of silent rupture.
Patient Testimonials
“10/10, the best in the business! Dr. Ringler is an incredible plastic surgeon. My experience was effortless, from the booking down to my recovery. I felt comfortable, confident, and knowledgeable every step of the way. Not to mention, my outcome looked terrific and incredibly natural. I am beyond grateful! I will forever refer people to Dr. Ringler with the utmost confidence.”
“Dr. Ringler did an amazing job. His staff are hands down the best. Dr. Ringler showed me every option possible. Showed me my best option for my body frame. I would highly recommend the Dr. Ringler office. You will definitely not be disappointed!”
“My experience with Dr. Ringler was extremely smooth and almost painless! My results are everything beyond what I dreamed of and I couldn’t have asked for a better surgeon! I recommend him to everyone I know! My recovery was extremely easy and I was already up and going after just 3 days!”
“I was extremely nervous about having a breast augmentation surgery and I had a lot of questions. Lauren was friendly, honest and prompt with responding to my questions. Dr. Ringler listened to my concerns and allowed me to process the information and made me feel confident with my decision. He was honest and did not pressure me to make a quick decision. Although the first few weeks after the operation were difficult I am thrilled with the results! I look natural and I feel confident. It is clear that Dr. Ringler is a skilled surgeon and an artist. I highly recommend Dr. Ringler and his team!”
“Dr. Ringler is an amazing surgeon! I had breast augmentation with ideal implants at 375 cc. I was a AA prior to surgery and had slightly sagging breasts after nursing my son for 11 months. I was nervous about the implants looking fake or looking like I’m wearing a permanent push up bra; especially since I had pretty minimal breast tissue to start with. I told Dr. Ringler that I wanted a very natural look and nothing too exaggerated and boy did he deliver. I am so pleased with the results! It’s only been 3 weeks post op and my breasts already look so natural. They have a very teardrop shape to them and I required no lift. My recovery was very smooth as well. I am so happy that I went with Dr. Ringler. I would highly recommend him for anyone else considering plastic surgery.”
“Dr. Ringler’s warmth, expertise, vision, and care was clear through the process but nothing could have prepared me for the end result. He listened to all of my self-proclaimed 'high maintenance' requests-specific size and shape considerations-and made my visions a reality! My recent breast augmentation procedure was such a success-immediately I could see that not only did he listen at those earlier consultations but he honored each of my requests. This takes not just experience but an ARTISTIC eye! Top notch doctor. Top notch office. Top notch Patient Care Coordinator. Lauren stood out in her sincerity and honesty...quick with answers via email and phone calls. I truly cannot imagine a more superb plastic surgeon/staff! Thank you for my natural results! But more so, thank you for being trustworthy!”
“Dr. Ringler and his office gals were warm, caring and accommodating to my needs. They had my best interest at heart and I'm very happy with my results after recently having a breast augmentation. I would highly recommend Dr. Ringler.”
See your new breasts in 3D
Preview Your Breast Augmentation Results
If you’re considering breast augmentation, you may benefit from having the chance to preview what your results will potentially look like. With the use of our innovative breast imaging and simulation technology, Crisalix 3D, Dr. Ringler allows patients to see simulated images of various types and sizes of potential breast implants. This process will give you the chance to see what different implants will look like on your body, which should make it easier for you to choose the best implants to achieve your desired figure.
Additionally, this technology even lets you look at how different breast implants will look in various types of clothing.
When you can see clear images of how you can expect to look after a cosmetic surgery like breast augmentation, it gives you a much better idea of what you’re signing up for and helps give you confidence about the procedure.
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Steven L. Ringler, MD, FACS
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A Comprehensive, Personalized Approach
Dr. Steven Ringler is a board-certified plastic surgeon known for his talent, precision, and warm bedside manner. With over 40 years of plastic surgery experience, Dr. Ringler has performed numerous successful breast augmentation surgeries. He understands that every breast augmentation is unique, and he takes the time to get to know every patient and understand their personal needs and goals. Dr. Ringler and his team go the extra mile to ensure that each breast augmentation yields exceptional, natural-looking results and requires as short of a recovery period as possible.
What is the procedure for breast augmentation?
Breast augmentation surgery is performed on an outpatient basis and under general anesthesia. Once you are sedated, Dr. Ringler will create an incision. Most of our Michigan patients have their incision placed within the armpit (transaxillary). However, alternative options include around the areola (periareolar), and under the breast (inframammary). A transaxillary approach may be used for all types of breast implants.
Through that opening, Dr. Ringler will place your implants beneath your breast tissue, partially beneath the pectoral or chest muscle, or a combination of the two. After checking your implants for fit and symmetry, Dr. Ringler will close the incisions with care to minimize scarring. You will be free to return home immediately following surgery to rest and begin the healing process.
Breast Augmentation Recovery
Immediately after breast augmentation surgery, you will need a capable adult to drive you home and stay with you for at least 24 hours. Most of our Grand Rapids patients can return to their normal activities of daily living between 24 and 48 hours with minimal restrictions.
However, full sports activity – such as running, jogging, and high-impact aerobics – must be avoided for around four weeks. Any future weight fluctuations and pregnancies, along with the normal aging process and gravity, can affect your results over time.
For more info on recovery after your breast augmentation, please see our page: Steps to Improve Recovery and Enhance Results After Breast Augmentation.
Breast Augmentation FAQ's
How much does breast augmentation cost?
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average fee for a breast augmentation in 2017 was between $5,000 and $15,000. During your consultation, our office will provide you with a unique, comprehensive quote based on your particular needs.
What will my scars look like?
The incision pattern for your surgery will be discussed during your consultation. Scars are a normal outcome of surgery and are generally concealed in the underarm area with saline, silicone gel or IDEAL implants. There will be no scar on the breast themselves, but rather a very small incision under your armpit.
What are the risks?
All surgeries carry the potential for risks. Though complications are rare when the procedure is performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon, they may include capsular contracture, changes in nipple sensation, infection, implant rupture, and more.
Can breast augmentation be combined with other procedures?
Yes, your breast augmentation in Michigan can be used to enhance a breast lift (mastopexy), or breast reconstruction. The surgery is often a critical part of a custom mommy makeover.
Will I be able to have a mammogram after I have implants?
Yes, you will still be able undergo a mammogram. You must let the mammogram technician know about your implants before the test.
Will I eventually need to have my implants replaced?
Implants have no expiry date, but it is recommended to have them replaced or changed roughly every fifteen to twenty years. They only need to be replaced sooner if there is a rupture or you develop a complication such as capsular contracture.
Where will the implants be placed?
The placement of your implants will be chosen based on what will look best on your body. Women who have less natural breast tissue often have their breast implants placed below the pectoral muscle for a more natural, smooth appearance. Women with more breast tissue can achieve beautiful results with silicone implants placed above the chest muscle, beneath the natural breast tissue.
Will I be able to breastfeed after a breast augmentation?
Nipple function should not be affected with a breast augmentation as the nipple and ducts will not be altered. There is only a minor risk of sensation changes in and around the areola, but this should not affect breastfeeding. If you plan to have children and breastfeed, let your surgeon know.
Will breast augmentation increase my risk of cancer?
Breast implants do not increase the risk of cancer, nor do they prevent or hinder a doctor from locating any cancer that develops. You may have heard of BIA-ALCL as a form of cancer that developed in patients with breast cancer, but nearly every of BIA-ALCL was with patients who had a specific brand of textured implants that we do not and will not offer.
Am I too old for the surgery?
While patients in their 20’s and 30’s are the most common, we have had patients in their 40’s and 50’s that have successfully undergone breast enhancement with excellent results.
Will breast augmentation work for me if my breasts are sagging?
Yes – a breast implant can help women with sagging breasts. However, it may be best to combine your breast implant with a mastopexy (breast lift) to restore the location, shape, and firmness of your breasts at the same as we enhance them.
Steven L. Ringler, MD, FACS
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Call Us 616-328-8800
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