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Breast Augmentation Chicago

Breast Augmentation
Chicago – Natural Breast
Enhancement

Breast Augmentation in Chicago

If you are considering breast augmentation, it is usually not just about size.

It is about proportion, balance, and feeling more confident in your body.

Many patients come in saying:

  • “I want to look natural”
  • “I don’t want to look overdone”
  • “I just want to feel like myself again”

At DMR Aesthetics in Chicago, Dr. Dahlia Rice, a board-certified plastic surgeon, performs breast augmentation with a focus on natural shape, symmetry, and long-term results.

Contact female plastic surgeon Dr. Dahlia Rice today at (312) 600-5435 to schedule a consultation at her Chicago, Il office.

What Is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that enhances the size and shape of the breasts using implants or breast fat transfer techniques.

Most commonly, this involves placing:

  • Silicone implants
  • Saline implants

These implants may be positioned either under the chest muscle or above the muscle, depending on your anatomy and goals.

The goal is not just volume, but creating a balanced, natural-looking result that fits your body.

Why Women Choose Breast Augmentation

Patients choose breast augmentation for a variety of reasons, including:

  • Increasing breast size or fullness
  • Restoring volume after weight loss or pregnancy
  • Improving symmetry
  • Enhancing overall body proportions

For many patients, it is not about a dramatic change, but about feeling more confident in clothing and everyday life.

Meet…

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon – Dr. Dahlia Rice

Dr. Dahlia Rice is a board-certified plastic surgeon and founder of DMR Aesthetics Chicago. She completed advanced training in integrated plastic surgery at the University of Rochester Medical Center after her general surgery training at Michigan State University, and earned her medical degree from Rush Medical College in Chicago.

Her approach to breast augmentation is:

  • Personalized to each patient’s anatomy
  • Focused on natural, proportional results
  • Designed for long-term balance, not short-term trends

About Dr. Dahlia Rice

DMR Aesthetics Chicago Dr Dahlia Rice Breast Augmentation Surgeon
American Society of Plastic Surgeons
American Board of Plastic Surgery

Rush University
Michigan State University

Types of Breast Augmentation

Not all breast augmentations are the same. The right approach depends on your goals, anatomy, and desired outcome.

Silicone Implants

  • Softer, more natural feel
  • Most commonly chosen option

Saline Implants

  • Filled after placement
  • Slightly firmer feel

Fat Transfer (Natural Augmentation)

  • Uses your own fat
  • Best suited for subtle enhancement

The right option depends on your goals, body type, and desired outcome.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may be a strong candidate for breast augmentation if you:

  • Want to increase breast size or improve shape
  • Have realistic expectations
  • Are in good overall health

Important: The most appropriate procedure depends on your anatomy and goals.

Some patients may benefit more from a breast lift, fat transfer, or a combination of procedures.

Contact female plastic surgeon Dr. Dahlia Rice today at (312) 600-5435 to schedule a consultation at her Chicago, Il office.

How the Procedure Is Performed

Breast Augmentation Surgery

Breast augmentation is typically performed as an outpatient procedure.

  • Performed under anesthesia
  • Incisions are placed discreetly, often under the breast fold or around the areola
  • Implants are positioned and adjusted for symmetry

Procedure time: usually 45–90 minutes.

Results: What Patients Notice

Patients typically see:

  • Increased breast volume
  • Improved shape and fullness
  • Better overall body proportion

Early on, implants may sit higher, but they gradually settle into a more natural position over time.

Final results continue to develop as swelling resolves over several weeks to months.

Recovery & Downtime

Recovery varies depending on the technique used and your individual anatomy.

What to expect:

  • Soreness and tightness during the first few days
  • Swelling that can last for several weeks
  • Return to light activity within about one week
  • Full recovery in approximately 6–8 weeks

Most patients return to normal routines relatively quickly but should avoid heavy lifting during the early healing phase.

Risks & Safety

Breast augmentation is generally safe, but like any surgical procedure, it carries potential risks.

  • Capsular contracture (scar tissue tightening)
  • Implant rupture or leakage
  • Infection
  • Changes in nipple or breast sensation

Some patients may require future procedures, as implants are not lifetime devices.

Transparency matters: all risks and expectations are discussed during your consultation so you can make an informed decision.

Breast Augmentation vs Fat Transfer

This is one of the most common questions patients ask.

Breast Implants

  • More noticeable increase in size
  • More predictable volume

Fat Transfer

  • Subtle, natural enhancement
  • No implants or foreign materials

The best choice depends on how much change you are looking for.

How Long Do Results Last?

Breast augmentation results are long-lasting, but there are a few important considerations:

  • Implants may eventually need replacement
  • Natural aging and weight changes will still affect results over time

Regular follow-up visits are recommended to monitor implant integrity and long-term outcomes.

Cost of Breast Augmentation in Chicago

Pricing varies based on several factors, including:

  • The type of implant selected
  • The complexity of the procedure
  • Whether additional procedures are included

During your consultation, Dr. Rice will:

  • Evaluate your goals
  • Recommend the most appropriate approach
  • Provide accurate, personalized pricing

Why Patients Choose DMR Aesthetics

  • Board-certified plastic surgeon
  • Specialized in natural-looking breast results
  • Personalized treatment plans
  • Focus on safety and long-term outcomes
  • Chicago-based boutique practice

Learn More About Breast Augmentation

Explore these resources to better understand your options and what to expect:

Breast Augmentation FAQ

How painful is breast augmentation?

Most women report feeling little to no pain within 2-3 weeks after their breast augmentation in the greater Chicago area, with mild tenderness persisting for up to 1 month.

The average size of breast implants is in the 300-400cc range, equivalent to a C cup bra, which is popular among women in the US as it provides a visible yet natural and proportionate result.

What is the most requested breast augmentation?

Saline implants are the most requested type of breast augmentation, with 44% of all breast implant surgeries making them a popular choice for their natural roundness.

Can I breastfeed after breast augmentation?

It is possible to breastfeed after breast augmentation; however, the choice of incision location may affect your ability to do so.

How common is breast asymmetry after breast augmentation?

Experiencing asymmetry is a frequent concern for individuals undergoing breast augmentation. The initial step is to engage in a consultation with your surgeon to identify the underlying factors contributing to the asymmetry.

What is the difference between breast lift and breast augmentation?

Breast augmentation and breast lift are widely sought-after procedures for enhancing one’s appearance, each offering distinct advantages. Augmentation focuses on increasing breast cup size, while a lift addresses sagging tissue by raising it. Combining these Chicago breast procedures allows for achieving the desired breast shape, position, and size simultaneously.

Is breast augmentation safe for patients with a history of breast cancer?

Breast augmentation surgery carries specific considerations for patients with a history of breast cancer, and patient safety is always the top priority. While cosmetic surgeons can perform breast augmentation on breast cancer survivors, it requires careful evaluation during a personal consultation. 

Dr. Dahlia Rice will thoroughly review your medical history, including details about your cancer treatment, recovery timeline, and current health status. She will coordinate with your oncologist to ensure the procedure is appropriate for your individual case. 

The timing of the surgery, type of implants used, and monitoring protocols may need to be adjusted to maintain optimal patient safety while achieving your aesthetic goals through body contouring procedures.

How common is capsular contracture after breast augmentation?

The most prevalent complication after breast enlargement is capsular contracture, impacting approximately 10-20% of patients undergoing the procedure. Although encountering this condition is undesirable, there are fortunately several methods available to prevent and, in some cases, address it.

What makes good candidates for breast augmentation?

Maintain good physical and mental well-being, possess a healthy status, and be a minimum of 18 years old (for saline implants) or at least 22 years old (for silicone gel implants). Engage in regular exercise and maintain a normal weight, while also having fully developed breasts.

Can you get breast implants after breast feeding?

Although individual circumstances may vary, our general recommendation is for women to wait at least six months after concluding breastfeeding before considering breast augmentation surgery.

It’s essential to ensure definitively that you have completed the breastfeeding phase, as breastfeeding is not possible during the recovery period following breast augmentation surgery.

How long does gummy bear breast implants last?

Gummy bear implants have the potential to last for 20 years or more; however, the duration varies for each patient, contingent upon their unique physiology and care.

Generally, individuals may undergo breast implant revision to replace the implants. While breast implant results are not permanent, the longevity of gummy bear breast implants distinguishes them as a lasting option.

Can breast augmentation help with asymmetrical breasts caused by weight loss?

Yes, breast augmentation can be an effective solution for addressing asymmetrical breasts that result from significant weight loss.

When patients achieve substantial weight reduction, the breasts often lose volume unevenly, creating noticeable asymmetry. During your personal consultation, Dr. Rice will evaluate your medical history and assess how weight loss has affected your woman’s breasts. She can recommend different implant sizes or placement techniques to restore balance and symmetry while enhancing your natural beauty.

This approach not only improves the aesthetic appearance but can also help alleviate discomfort that may arise from wearing improperly fitting undergarments due to breast asymmetry.

Schedule Your Confidential Consultation

If you are ready to enhance your shape and feel more confident in your body, schedule a consultation with Dr. Dahlia Rice at DMR Aesthetics Chicago.

📍 Chicago, IL
📞 (312) 600-5435

References

  1. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-augmentation/implants
  2. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/11024-breast-augmentation