Can Breast Augmentation Restore Volume?

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Dr. Eric Barker

November 21, 2021

Dr. Barker earned his medical degree at the Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee, WI. He then completed his combined training in General Surgery and Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Rush University Medical Center and John H. Stroger, Jr. (Cook County) Hospital in Chicago, IL. Dr. Barker was able to train under distinguished breast reconstructive surgeon Dr. Anuja Antony, and prestigious cosmetic surgeon Dr. John Q. Cook.

Many women lose breast volume due to life events like pregnancy, weight loss, and natural aging. If this causes feelings of embarrassment or self-consciousness about your body, you may be a candidate for breast augmentation in Denver, CO. Plastic surgeon Dr. Eric Barker knows how to address many common concerns related to breast size, shape, and even nipple position.

While breast augmentation can provide gorgeous and voluminous results, it’s not always something you want to rush into. We recommend calling Peak Plastic Surgery Center for a breast assessment. This allows our team to get to know you and your concerns. Call one of our cosmetic surgery specialists so we can answer your questions and help guide you through the process.

What causes loss of breast volume?

There are many reasons why you have volume loss in the breast, and these issues vary by patient. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and age-related changes in the skin and tissue around the breasts are most common. Sometimes, these issues occur at the same time. Significant weight loss can also change the shape of the breasts.

Breast augmentation is usually performed on women who have gone through these changes. However, women with a history of naturally small or asymmetric breasts may also benefit from this procedure. Dr. Barker can add breast volume in a way that balances your figure and enhances your appearance.

What is involved in a breast assessment?

A consultation allows Dr. Barker to review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and discuss realistic results that can be achieved through surgery. You’ll also receive information about implants, including natural-looking teardrop implants. If you’re a good candidate, we create a personalized cosmetic surgery plan based on your body type and goals.

Benefits of breast augmentation in Denver include:

  • Increased fullness and projection of the breasts
  • A fuller figure
  • Improved self-confidence
  • A more balanced silhouette

Which breast implants are best for adding volume?

All implants have the ability to add volume to the breasts. Factors that influence results include filling material and size. Silicone implants are preferred by most women because they provide a more natural feel. Patients at Peak Plastic Surgery Center are also given different breast implant shapes, to achieve their desired look.

What will my results be like?

Breast augmentation results vary depending on the size and type of implant that’s used. Our patients are excited to enjoy increased breast size and projection. You might also notice improved contours and more balanced proportions with your figure.

We’re committed to helping you achieve effective results that look natural and rejuvenating for your body type. After the surgery, you can wear a wider variety of clothing and feel more confident. Your breasts will look natural and attractive, and you’ll feel like yourself again. After a while, you may even forget that you’ve had this procedure done!

Restore breast volume through cosmetic surgery

Over time, natural aging and pregnancy can cause your breasts to lose some volume. Breast augmentation can be a wonderful option for women who want to restore their look. When you’re ready to make a change and do something about your appearance, speak with Dr. Eric Barker about teardrop implants and more in Denver, CO. Peak Plastic Surgery Center can provide excellent outcomes you can feel great about.

A common question we receive at Peak Plastic Surgery is: Who is a candidate for a mini tummy tuck? This is a frequent inquiry because there is often confusion about the difference between a mini tummy tuck and a full tummy tuck (abdominoplasty).

When we talk about a mini tummy tuck, it specifically addresses excess abdominal skin below the belly button. Essentially, the goal is to flatten the area below the belly button by removing any excess abdominal skin. This procedure often targets damaged skin below the belly button, which is commonly caused by stretch marks. In many cases, this damage results from pregnancy in women or significant weight gain in men.

When patients call our office and speak with my coordinator prior to their consultation, we ask a few key questions to determine their concerns. If excess abdominal skin is mentioned, we follow up by asking:

  • Where is the excess skin located?
  • Is it all over the abdomen or just in the lower part?

If a patient indicates the issue is primarily in the lower abdomen, especially following a C-section, they are often ideal candidates for a mini abdominoplasty. C-section scars frequently tether to the abdominal wall, creating contour irregularities or an “overflow” of skin above the scar.

A mini tummy tuck is effective in removing this lower abdominal skin, and it can be combined with laser liposuction (performed while awake in my clinic) to achieve a smooth, flat appearance. However, candidacy also depends on other factors, including:

  • Weight status: Are you at or near your goal weight?
  • Pregnancy history: Have you had a recent pregnancy?
  • Recovery timeline: Has enough time passed (typically 6–8 months) for your skin and subcutaneous tissues to heal and retract after pregnancy?

If you’re a mother, we need to evaluate where your muscles have settled after pregnancy. The abdominal muscles (rectus musculature) often separate in the middle (a condition called rectus diastasis), and while they may return to their normal position, they sometimes require surgical repair.

If muscle repair is necessary, the procedure will require general anesthesia. If not, the procedure can be done while you’re awake. All of these factors are assessed during your consultation to determine the most appropriate approach for your mini abdominoplasty.

For many of my patients, the decision comes down to whether the excess skin is located only below the belly button. If there’s no excess skin above the belly button, a mini tummy tuck may be the ideal solution. In cases where there are additional skin or muscle concerns, we might discuss options like adding laser liposuction or performing muscle repair.

For mothers specifically, we recommend waiting at least 6–8 months after giving birth to allow the skin to heal and the abdominal muscles to settle. This ensures we have a clear picture of your body’s post-pregnancy recovery before proceeding with surgery.

It’s also worth noting that a mini abdominoplasty does not preclude future procedures. For instance, patients may later opt for a full tummy tuck due to changes in weight, skin elasticity, or personal goals. While I prefer to achieve optimal results in one surgery whenever possible, patient goals and circumstances often evolve over time.

Ultimately, deciding on a mini tummy tuck depends on your individual goals and timeline. During your preoperative phone consultation with my coordinator, and later in your in-person consultation with me, we’ll discuss your concerns and expectations to determine the best surgical approach for you.

For those wondering if a mini tummy tuck is right for them: the ideal candidate is someone who is close to their goal weight and wants to address excess skin below the belly button. Whether it’s due to pregnancy, weight fluctuations, or other factors, this procedure can help patients achieve a flatter, more defined lower abdomen.

Even if you decide on a mini abdominoplasty now, you remain a candidate for a full tummy tuck in the future if needed. Our goal is to guide you through this process and ensure your surgical outcomes align with your long-term goals.

Learn more and schedule your consultation!