Breast Augmentation with Implants

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Baltimore, Columbia, Ellicott City and Maryland

Breast augmentation with implants

Breast augmentation with implants is an aesthetic procedure performed to enhance the size, shape, and projection of the breasts. (1) Breast implants come in a range of shapes, sizes, and materials, allowing the patient to customize her enhancements to her unique silhouette and lifestyle.

At Metamorphosis Plastic Surgery in Baltimore, Dr. Daniel Markmann is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has built his career delivering personalized care and transformative results through a range of facial, breast, and body contouring procedures. Dr. Markmann believes in the power of doctor-patient collaboration, and he works with each of his patients to achieve the aesthetic results of their dreams.

To learn more about breast augmentation with implants and request a personal consultation with Dr. Markmann, call our offices at (410) 465-3600 or contact us online.

Before and After Photos

Breast Augmentation Before & After Patient #1842
Breast Augmentation Before & After Patient #2108
Breast Augmentation Before & After Patient #2111
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About Breast Augmentation with Implants

Breast augmentation is a surgical way to enhance breast size, symmetry, and overall appearance with medical-grade implants. Whether the goal is to restore volume lost after pregnancy and weight loss or to create a more balanced silhouette, this procedure offers a highly customizable solution for patients looking to improve their chest contours. Dr. Markmann tailors each procedure to the individual, ensuring that the results not only meet the patient’s aesthetic goals but also complement their natural frame.

Saline Implants

Saline implants consist of a durable silicone outer shell that is filled with a sterile saltwater solution. (2) These devices are prized for their customability, as Dr. Markmann can increase the volume of the implants after they have been placed in the chest. Because of this, saline implants also require a smaller incision for insertion. Once placed, Dr. Markmann can adjust the volume precisely to achieve optimal symmetry and size, and any rupture is immediately noticeable and the harmless saline solution is absorbed by the body. However, patients with minimal natural breast tissue may find that saline implants are more prone to visible rippling or a firmer feel than silicone alternatives.

Silicone Implants

Silicone implants are pre-filled with a cohesive silicone gel that is designed to closely mimic the movement and feel of natural breast tissue. (1) These implants are highly popular because they provide a soft, realistic texture and are significantly less likely to cause visible rippling, making them an excellent choice for leaner patients. Because safety is a top priority at Metamorphosis Plastic Surgery, Dr. Markmann provides his breast implant patients with a free annual implant check-up to monitor the integrity and health of the enhancements over time.

Size and Profile

Customization is key to achieving a natural-looking result. Dr. Markmann helps patients select the ideal implant size (measured in volume) and profile, which refers to how far the breast projects forward from the chest. Patients can also choose between round implants, which provide even fullness and upper-pole projection, or teardrop-shaped (anatomical) implants that replicate a more natural slope. Dr. Markmann evaluates existing tissue quality and chest dimensions to ensure the selected profile balances the patient’s unique silhouette.

The Incision Decision

To minimize visible scarring, Dr. Markmann strategically places incisions in discreet locations. The most common site is the inframammary fold, located in the crease beneath the breast, which allows for excellent precision during implant placement. Another option is the periareolar incision, which follows the edge of the areola to hide the scar effectively. Dr. Markmann uses advanced surgical techniques to ensure incisions are closed carefully, promoting optimal healing and subtle results.

Benefits

The benefits of breast augmentation with implants extend beyond physical enhancements, often leading to a significant boost in quality of life. Key advantages include:

  • Improved symmetry between the breasts.
  • Restored volume following weight loss, breastfeeding, or aging.
  • Enhanced proportions and a more balanced silhouette.
  • More flattering clothing fit and options.
  • Increased self-confidence and positive body image.

Candidates

Potential candidates for breast augmentation with implants are overall healthy adults who have realistic expectations about surgical results. It is essential that candidates are non-smokers or willing to quit nicotine for several weeks before and after surgery so as not to impede the healing process. Whether seeking enhancement for personal aesthetic reasons or reconstruction, candidates should maintain a stable weight to ensure the longevity of their results.

Personal Consultation

The consultation is a collaborative process where Dr. Markmann listens to your goals and performs a detailed physical examination. During this meeting, he assesses your breast anatomy, skin elasticity, and chest dimensions to recommend the best surgical approach. If significant skin laxity is present, he may suggest a breast lift alongside your augmentation for best results. This meeting is the time to ask all your questions and explore all the available implant options.

During your visit, you will have the opportunity to “preview” various implant dimensions using specialized sizing bras. This tactile experience allows you to explore different volumes and shapes to determine which enhancements best harmonize with your silhouette.

After Dr. Markmann creates your personalized treatment plan, you can further explore your potential results with state-of-the-art VECTRA 3D Imaging. This advanced technology provides a high-definition, multi-dimensional simulation, offering a realistic preview of the transformative outcomes your selected implants can achieve.

To request a consultation with Dr. Markmann and start exploring your options for breast augmentation with implants, call (410) 465-3600 or submit our online contact form.

Preparation

Dr. Markmann will provide you with detailed information to help you prepare for a safe procedure and smooth recovery. These guidelines will include:

  • Stopping all nicotine use 4-6 weeks before and after surgery.
  • Avoiding certain blood-thinning medications and supplements.
  • Arranging for a trusted adult to provide transportation and personal assistance on the day of your surgery and 24-48 hours of initial recovery.
  • Scheduling time away from work and other responsibilities.
  • Filling all necessary post-procedure prescriptions.
  • Preparing a comfortable recovery space.

Procedure

Dr. Markmann performs breast augmentation as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia to ensure your comfort. He will place your implants either subglandularly (above the muscle and behind the breast tissue) or submuscularly (beneath the pectoral muscle). Submuscular placement often provides more coverage and a more natural transition, especially for patients with less tissue, while subglandular placement may offer a slightly quicker initial recovery.

The surgery typically takes one to two hours. Dr. Markmann begins by making the pre-planned incision and creating a pocket for the implant. If he has chosen submuscular placement, he carefully lifts the pectoral muscle to accommodate the implant. Once he positions the implants and confirms symmetry, he closes the incisions with multi-layered sutures to ensure a secure and aesthetic result. Dr. Markmann may also place temporary surgical drains to prevent fluid buildup, depending on the specifics of your case. Finally, he will fit you with a compression bra to support your healing tissues and mitigate swelling.

When the SubMuscular implant position is chosen, Dr. Markmann will insert an OnQ pain pump catheter into each implant pocket. The OnQ pump will deliver numbing medicine called Marcaine into the pocket and around the implants for the next 5 days, dramatically reducing the pain of the surgery.

Recovery

Most patients can return to non-strenuous work and light activity within a week or two with the implants under the muscle; however, some soreness and swelling are normal. You must consistently wear your specialized implant support and stabilization strap called a Bandeau during the initial healing phase to help keep the implants in the proper position. If your implants are placed on top of the muscle, Dr. Markmann will place you into a surgical bra to maintain the implant position. Return to work with implants over the muscle is usually a couple of days. While gentle walking is encouraged to promote circulation, you must avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for at least 4–6 weeks or until cleared by Dr. Markmann.

During the first 48 hours, it is common to experience a feeling of tightness or pressure in the chest area. Most patients manage this comfortably with prescribed pain medication. You will attend a follow-up appointment within the first week to monitor your progress and ensure incisions are healing well. It is important to avoid sleeping on your stomach or side for several weeks to prevent putting unnecessary pressure on the new enhancements.

Results

While an increase in volume is immediate, the final results will emerge over several months as the implants settle into their natural position and swelling completely dissipates. The enhancements are long-lasting; however, it is important to note that breast implants are not lifetime devices. Many patients enjoy their results for 10–20 years before a routine replacement or revision is recommended to maintain the aesthetic outcome.

Cost of Breast Augmentation with Implants in Baltimore

The cost of breast augmentation with implants varies based on the type of implants selected and the complexity of the procedure. Dr. Markmann will provide a comprehensive cost estimate during your personal consultation. To make your aesthetic goals more accessible, our practice offers various financing options for qualified patients.

To start exploring your options for a breast augmentation with implants, call (410) 465-3600 or contact Metamorphosis Plastic Surgery online today!

FAQ

Will implants affect my ability to breastfeed?

Almost all women are able to successfully breastfeed after augmentation. Certain techniques, such as submuscular placement and inframammary incisions, can minimize interference with milk ducts. If breastfeeding is a future goal, be sure to discuss this with Dr. Markmann during your consultation.

Are breast implants safe?

Yes, both saline and silicone implants are FDA-approved and have a long history of safety. Modern silicone cohesive gels are designed to stay within the shell even in the unlikely event of a rupture.

How long will my implants last?

While durable, implants are not lifetime devices. Most patients enjoy their results for 10 to 20 years before an exchange or revision surgery is recommended to maintain optimal results.

How long is the recovery period?

Most patients return to work within a week. You should wait 4–6 weeks before returning to high-impact exercise or heavy lifting to ensure proper healing.

Will I have visible scars?

Dr. Markmann uses precise incision techniques in natural folds to ensure scars are as discreet as possible. Over time, these scars typically fade into thin, faint lines.

When can I return to the gym?

Light walking is encouraged immediately. However, you should avoid any heavy lifting or high-impact cardiovascular exercise for at least four to six weeks. Dr. Markmann will clear you for specific activities during your follow-up appointments based on your individual healing rate.

References

  1. Patel BC, Wong CS, Wright T, Schaffner AD. Breast Implants. StatPearls Publishing; 2021. Accessed July 21, 2026. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441998/
  2. Gutowski KA, Mesna GT, Cunningham BL. Saline-filled breast implants: a Plastic Surgery Educational Foundation multicenter outcomes study. Plastic and reconstructive surgery. 1997;100(4):1019-1027. doi:https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9290673/