Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the United States, with over 300,000 procedures performed annually. For women in Franklin, Williamson County, and the greater Nashville, Tennessee area seeking to enhance their breast volume, shape, or correct asymmetries, Dr. Natasha Luckey offers personalized surgical solutions grounded in clinical expertise and compassionate care.

Dr. Luckey is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery. Her approach combines surgical precision with an understanding of how breast enhancement can positively impact self-confidence and body image. Whether you’re considering augmentation for the first time or exploring revision surgery, this guide will help you understand your options and what to expect.

• What Is Breast Augmentation?
• Benefits of Breast Augmentation
• Ideal Candidates for Breast Augmentation
• Breast Implant Options
• Surgical Techniques and Incision Placement
• The Breast Augmentation Procedure
• Recovery and Post-Operative Care
• Combination Procedures
• Why Choose Dr. Natasha Luckey for Breast Augmentation
• FAQs
• About Dr. Natasha Luckey

What Is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation, also called breast enhancement or breast enlargement, is a surgical procedure designed to increase breast volume and improve breast shape. The procedure involves placing implants—either silicone gel or saline—behind the breast tissue to create fuller, more proportional breasts.

Unlike non-surgical alternatives like dermal fillers or microneedling, breast augmentation provides permanent, dramatic results. The procedure can address:

• Naturally small breasts – Women who desire fuller breasts for aesthetic reasons
• Volume loss after pregnancy – Restoring breast fullness after breastfeeding or weight changes
• Breast asymmetry – Correcting uneven breast size or shape
• Reconstruction needs – Restoring breast tissue after mastectomy or injury
• Body proportion concerns – Achieving balanced body contours

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), breast augmentation remains one of the top five cosmetic surgical procedures, reflecting its safety profile and high patient satisfaction rates.¹

Benefits of Breast Augmentation

Physical and Aesthetic Benefits

Breast augmentation offers multiple physical improvements:

• Enhanced breast volume – Achieve fuller breasts that complement your body frame
• Improved breast shape – Create a more lifted, youthful contour
• Corrected asymmetry – Balance uneven breasts for a symmetrical appearance
• Better clothing fit – Wear styles that previously didn’t fit well
• Restored proportion – Achieve balanced body contours, especially after pregnancy or weight loss

Psychological and Emotional Benefits

Beyond physical changes, many patients report significant improvements in self-esteem and confidence. As one patient shared, “Breast augmentation gave me back the body I felt I lost after having children. I feel more like myself again.” The procedure can positively impact body image, self-perception, and overall well-being.

Research in aesthetic surgery literature consistently shows that patients who undergo breast augmentation report improved self-confidence and satisfaction with their appearance. This psychological benefit often extends to improved quality of life and personal relationships.²

Ideal Candidates for Breast Augmentation

Good candidates for breast augmentation typically share these characteristics:

• Good overall health – No significant medical conditions that would complicate surgery
• Realistic expectations – Understanding that results will enhance, not transform, your appearance
• Stable weight – Maintaining a consistent weight before and after surgery
• Fully developed breasts – Generally age 18 or older (21+ recommended for silicone implants in some cases)
• Specific aesthetic goals – Clear understanding of desired breast size and shape
• Non-smoker or willing to quit – Smoking impairs healing and increases complication risk
• Commitment to follow-up care – Attending post-operative appointments and following recovery guidelines³

During your consultation with Dr. Luckey in Franklin, she will evaluate your health history, examine your breast anatomy, and discuss your aesthetic goals to determine if breast augmentation is right for you. She may also recommend combination procedures, such as breast lift with implants (augmentation-mastopexy) or mommy makeover procedures that address multiple areas of concern.

Breast Implant Options

Choosing the right implant type is a critical decision. Dr. Luckey offers multiple options to match your aesthetic goals and body type.

Silicone Gel Implants

Silicone gel implants are the most popular choice among patients seeking natural-looking results. These implants are filled with cohesive silicone gel that mimics the feel of natural breast tissue.

Advantages:

• Natural look and feel, especially for thin patients
• Reduced rippling and visible implant edges
• Preferred for reconstructive surgery after breast cancer
• Available in various shapes (round, teardrop/anatomical) and profiles
• FDA-approved and extensively tested for safety

Considerations:

• Require regular monitoring via MRI screening (recommended every 3 years)
• Slightly higher initial cost than saline
• Require a larger incision for placement

Saline Implants

Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater solution and offer a different set of advantages.

Advantages:

• Lower cost than silicone gel implants
• Adjustable volume during surgery for precise sizing
• Smaller incision required for placement
• If rupture occurs, saline is safely absorbed by the body
• No special monitoring required

Considerations:

• May feel firmer than silicone gel implants
• Higher risk of visible rippling, especially in thin patients
• Less natural feel for some patients

Fat Transfer Augmentation

Fat transfer (autologous fat grafting) is a non-implant alternative that uses your own fat cells to enhance breast volume.

Advantages:

• Uses your own tissue (no foreign material)
• Natural feel and appearance
• Minimal scarring
• Can be combined with liposuction for body contouring

Considerations:

• More modest volume increase than implants
• Requires adequate donor fat (liposuction areas)
• Some fat reabsorption occurs (typically 20-30%)
• May require multiple procedures for desired results
• Less suitable for significant volume enhancement

Dr. Luckey will discuss which implant option best suits your body type, aesthetic goals, and lifestyle during your consultation.

Surgical Techniques and Incision Placement

The approach Dr. Luckey uses depends on your anatomy, implant choice, and aesthetic goals. Multiple surgical techniques are available, each with specific advantages.

Incision Options

Inframammary Incision (Most Common)

• Placed in the natural fold beneath the breast
• Provides excellent visibility and control
• Minimizes disruption to breast tissue and nerves
• Scars are well-hidden within the natural breast crease
• Preserves breastfeeding capability and nipple sensation

Peri-Areolar Incision

• Placed around the areola (pigmented area around the nipple)
• Allows direct visualization of breast tissue
• Scars blend with the natural color transition
• May affect nipple sensation in some cases
• Suitable for certain implant types and placements

Trans-Axillary Incision

• Placed in the armpit crease
• No incision on the breast itself
• Scars hidden in natural skin fold
• More technically challenging
• Limited visibility during surgery
• Less commonly used

Implant Placement

Submuscular (Under the Muscle)

• Implant placed beneath the pectoralis major muscle
• Provides natural appearance and better support
• Reduces visible rippling
• Preferred for thin patients with minimal breast tissue
• Slightly longer recovery due to muscle disruption
• Better long-term results for most patients

Subfascial (Under the fascial/over the muscle)

• Implant placed between breast tissue and chest wall
• Shorter recovery time
• Less muscle disruption
• May show more rippling in thin patients
• Suitable for patients with adequate breast tissue

Dr. Luckey uses advanced surgical techniques and intraoperative sizers to ensure optimal implant positioning and natural-looking results that complement your body proportions.

The Breast Augmentation Procedure

Breast augmentation is typically performed under general anesthesia in an accredited surgical facility. The procedure generally takes 1-2 hours, depending on complexity and whether additional procedures (like breast lift) are performed.

Procedure Steps:

1. Anesthesia – General anesthesia is administered for your comfort and safety
2. Incision – Dr. Luckey creates the planned incision (inframammary, peri-areolar, or trans-axillary)
3. Pocket Creation – A pocket is carefully created either above or below the pectoral muscle
4. Implant Insertion – The implant is gently positioned within the pocket
5. Sizing Verification – Intraoperative sizers ensure symmetry and natural appearance
6. Closure – Incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures and skin adhesive for optimal scarring
7. Dressing – Surgical dressings and a support bra are applied

The entire process prioritizes precision, symmetry, and natural-looking results that enhance your body proportions.

Recovery and Post-Operative Care

Understanding the recovery timeline helps you plan appropriately and set realistic expectations.

Week 1-2: Initial Recovery

• Mild to moderate discomfort managed with prescribed pain medication
• Swelling and bruising are normal and expected
• Wear compression bra continuously (except for bathing)
• Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting
• Sleep with head elevated to reduce swelling
• Most patients can return to light desk work

Week 3-6: Progressive Recovery

• Swelling gradually decreases
• Pain typically resolves by week 3-4
• Can resume light exercise (walking, stationary cycling)
• Avoid heavy lifting and high-impact activities
• Scars begin to fade
• Most patients feel significantly better

6+ Weeks: Full Recovery

• Can resume normal exercise and strength training
• Swelling continues to resolve (can take 3-6 months for complete resolution)
• Scars continue to fade over 12-18 months
• Final results become apparent around 3-6 months post-op
• Can return to all normal activities

Most patients return to normal activities within 4-6 weeks, though complete healing and final results take several months.

Post-Operative Care Instructions:

• Take prescribed antibiotics as directed
• Attend all follow-up appointments
• Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
• Stay well-hydrated and eat nutritious foods
• Wear supportive bra as recommended
• Avoid sleeping on your stomach
• Report any signs of infection or unusual symptoms immediately

Combination Procedures

Breast augmentation can be combined with other plastic surgery procedures to address multiple aesthetic concerns in a single surgery.

Breast Augmentation with Breast Lift (Augmentation-Mastopexy)

For patients with volume loss and sagging, combining augmentation with a breast lift provides both fullness and lift. This is particularly popular for post-pregnancy body restoration.

Mommy Makeover

A mommy makeover is a comprehensive approach addressing multiple post-pregnancy changes, typically including:

• Breast augmentation or lift
• Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)
• Liposuction for body contouring
• Non-surgical treatments like BOTOX or dermal fillers

Why Choose Dr. Natasha Luckey for Breast Augmentation in Franklin, TN

Dr. Luckey brings extensive training, board certification, and a patient-centered philosophy to every procedure.

Credentials and Experience

• Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon – Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABMS)
• Specialized Training – Completed rigorous plastic surgery residency at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine (2007-2013), serving as Chief Resident
• Fellowship Training – Completed a highly competitive fellowship in breast and cosmetic surgery in Nashville, TN, under the renowned Dr. Patrick Maxwell
• Medical Education – Graduated from University of South Florida College of Medicine
• Residency – Southern Illinois University, combined plastic and reconstructive surgery
• Professional Affiliations – Member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), The Aesthetic Society, and American Medical Association
• Recognition – Named Castle Connolly Top Doctor for excellence in patient care
• Hospital Privileges – Maintains privileges at Williamson Medical Center and TriStar Centennial Medical Center
• Experience – Over 18 years of experience in cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery

Patient-Centered Approach

Dr. Luckey’s practice philosophy centers on understanding each patient’s unique goals and concerns. She takes time during consultations to:

• Listen carefully to your aesthetic objectives
• Examine your breast anatomy and body proportions
• Discuss implant options and surgical techniques
• Address your concerns and answer all questions
• Develop a personalized surgical plan
• Ensure realistic expectations

As one patient noted, “Dr. Luckey listened to what I wanted and delivered results that exceeded my expectations. She made me feel heard and cared for throughout the entire process.”

Comprehensive Care

From initial consultation through post-operativefollow-up, Dr. Luckey and her team provide comprehensive support:

• Detailed pre-operative evaluation and testing
• Clear pre- and post-operative instructions
• Accessible communication and support
• Regular follow-up appointments
• Long-term monitoring and care

FAQs

How long do breast implants last?

Breast implants are not lifetime devices. While many implants last 10-20+ years, some may require replacement earlier due to rupture, deflation, or patient preference. Regular monitoring and follow-up care help identify any issues early. The FDA recommends periodic MRI screening for silicone implants to monitor for silent rupture.⁴

Can I breastfeed after breast augmentation?

Most women can breastfeed successfully after breast augmentation, especially if the inframammary incision is used. The procedure typically does not affect milk production or the ability to nurse.⁵ However, discuss breastfeeding plans with Dr. Luckey during your consultation.

Will breast augmentation affect nipple sensation?

Most patients maintain normal nipple sensation after breast augmentation. However, temporary or permanent changes in sensation can occur in a small percentage of cases. Dr. Luckey uses surgical techniques that minimize nerve disruption.

What are the risks and complications?

While breast augmentation is generally safe, all surgery carries some risk. Potential complications include:

• Infection (rare, prevented with antibiotics)
• Bleeding or hematoma
• Seroma (fluid collection)
• Implant rupture or deflation
• Capsular contracture (scar tissue tightening around implant)
• Changes in nipple sensation
• Asymmetry or unsatisfactory aesthetic results⁶

How much does breast augmentation cost?

Breast augmentation costs vary based on implant type, surgical technique, facility fees, and anesthesia. During your consultation, Dr. Luckey’s team will provide a detailed cost estimate.

Can I combine breast augmentation with other procedures?

Yes. Breast augmentation is frequently combined with breast lift, tummy tuck, liposuction, and non-surgical treatments like Botox and dermal fillers. Combining procedures can be more cost-effective and allows comprehensive body contouring in a single surgery.

Where can I find breast augmentation near me in Franklin, TN?

Dr. Natasha Luckey offers board-certified breast augmentation surgery in Franklin, Williamson County, and the greater Nashville area. With over 18 years of experience and recognition as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor, Dr. Luckey combines surgical expertise with a compassionate, patient-centered approach. Her practice specializes in natural-looking results tailored to your unique body proportions and aesthetic goals. Schedule a consultation to discuss your breast augmentation options.

Schedule Your Breast Augmentation Consultation in Franklin, TN

Breast augmentation is a significant decision that deserves careful consideration and expert guidance. Dr. Natasha Luckey is committed to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals with personalized care, surgical precision, and compassionate support.

During your consultation, you’ll discuss your goals, review implant options, learn about surgical techniques, and develop a personalized treatment plan. Dr. Luckey takes time to ensure you feel informed, confident, and excited about your procedure.

About Dr. Natasha Luckey

Dr. Natasha Nicole Luckey, MD is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon dedicated to empowering women through personalized cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.

Education & Training:

• Medical Degree: University of South Florida College of Medicine (2007)
• Plastic Surgery Residency: Southern Illinois University School of Medicine (2007-2013)
• Chief Resident: Southern Illinois University School of Medicine (2012-2013)
• Fellowship – Combined breast and aesthetic fellowship Dr Patrick G Maxwell (2013-2014)

Board Certification:

• American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABMS)

Professional Affiliations:

• American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
• The Aesthetic Society (ASAPS)
• American Medical Association (AMA)

Hospital Privileges:

• Williamson Medical Center,Franklin, TN
• TriStar Centennial Medical Center, Nashville, TN
• Cool Springs Surgery Center, Franklin, TN

Recognition:

• Castle Connolly Top Doctor Award

Practice Philosophy:

Dr. Luckey specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery, body contouring, and facial rejuvenation. Her approach combines surgical expertise with compassionate patient care, ensuring natural-looking results that enhance confidence and well-being.

---

Sources

 

¹ American Society of Plastic Surgeons. 2024 Plastic Surgery Statistics. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/plastic-surgery-statistics. Accessed November 21, 2025.

² Sarwer DB. The psychological aspects of cosmetic breast augmentation. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2007 Dec;120(7 Suppl 1):110S-117S. doi: 10.1097/01.prs.0000286591.05612.72. PMID: 18090820. Available: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18090820/. Accessed November 21, 2025.

³ American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Who is a good candidate for breast augmentation? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-augmentation/candidates. Accessed November 21, 2025.

⁴ U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Risks and Complications of Breast Implants. Available: https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/breast-implants/risks-and-complications-breast-implants. Accessed November 21, 2025.

⁵ Schiff, M, et al. The impact of cosmetic breast implants on breastfeeding: a systematic review and meta-analysis. International Breastfeeding Journal 2014; 9: 17.10.1186/1746-4358-9-17. Accessed November 21, 2025.

⁶ American Society of Plastic Surgeons. What are the risks of breast augmentation? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-augmentation/safety. Accessed November 21, 2025.