Breast Procedures
At Bruno Plastic Surgery, our philosophy for breast enhancement is simple: help each patient achieve the bust that makes them look and feel their absolute best. The appearance of your breasts can deeply affect your self-confidence and comfort. We understand that every woman (and indeed, some men) has unique desires and concerns when it comes to bust size, shape, and symmetry. That’s why we offer a comprehensive range of cosmetic breast surgery services at our Northeast PA practice – each tailored to meet individual needs with precision and care.
Anthony Bruno II, M.D., our board-certified plastic surgeon, has extensive experience in breast procedures, from augmentations to reductions. His patient-first approach means he takes time to listen to your goals (whether it’s to fill out your clothes better, alleviate back pain, or correct asymmetry) and then formulates a surgical plan customized to you. Our team is dedicated to ensuring your comfort and satisfaction throughout the process.
We combine advanced surgical techniques with genuine compassion – resulting in beautiful outcomes and happy patients. Whether you’re looking to add volume, restore perkiness, reduce heaviness, or fix unevenness, you’re in the right place. Bruno Plastic Surgery is the premier destination for cosmetic breast surgery in Luzerne and Lackawanna Counties and beyond, known for delivering exceptional results and a superior patient experience.
Why Women Choose Breast Cosmetic Surgery
Women choose to undergo cosmetic breast surgery for a variety of very personal reasons. You might feel that your breasts have always been too small for your figure, affecting your self-image or clothing options. Or perhaps after pregnancy and breastfeeding, you’ve noticed a loss of volume and firmness – your once-perky bust now sags or looks “deflated.” Some women have the opposite concern: breasts that are overly large and heavy, causing physical discomfort like neck and shoulder pain and limiting their activities or wardrobe choices.
Others have one breast noticeably different in size or shape from the other (asymmetry), which can be a source of self-consciousness. These are all common motivations. The goal of cosmetic breast surgery is to address these issues, helping you feel more comfortable and confident in your body. When you love the way your bust looks, it can truly boost your overall confidence – you stand a little taller, you feel more at ease in social settings, and you enjoy fashion and swimwear without stress. Our patients often describe their breast surgery as “life-changing”, whether it’s finally being able to wear certain styles post-reduction or experiencing a newfound femininity and self-esteem post-augmentation.
It’s important to note that breast surgery is highly individualized – there is no one-size-fits-all solution. For some, a subtle enhancement is ideal; for others, a dramatic change is desired. Dr. Bruno’s approach is to tailor the procedure to your anatomy and wishes. During your consultation, he will carefully evaluate factors like your chest width, skin quality, and body proportions, and discuss your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. This ensures that the recommendation – be it implants, a lift, a reduction, or a combination – truly aligns with what you want to achieve. At Bruno Plastic Surgery, we focus on creating results that look natural and harmonious with your body. Our aim is for your breasts to suit you, giving you a balanced silhouette and a big confidence boost.
Below we provide an overview of the cosmetic breast surgery services we offer. Each section highlights what the procedure entails, who it’s for, and the benefits. You’ll also find internal links to dedicated pages with even more detail. Let’s explore how we can help you love your bust!
Breast Augmentation (Augmentation Mammaplasty)
Breast augmentation is all about increasing breast size and improving shape using implants or fat transfer. It’s one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries in the world – consistently ranking at or near the top of cosmetic procedure lists with hundreds of thousands performed each year. If you have naturally small breasts (perhaps an A or B cup and desire larger), or if your breasts lost volume after weight loss or pregnancy, augmentation can give you the fuller bustline you seek. We perform breast augmentations using breast implants in most cases. Implants come in various types (saline-filled or silicone gel-filled), shapes (teardrop or round), and sizes.
Part of your consultation will involve trying on implant sizers or reviewing photos to decide what size suits your goals – whether you want a subtle enhancement or a more dramatic change. Dr. Bruno will guide you, considering your chest measurements and skin elasticity, to avoid picking an implant too large that could cause issues or too small that underwhelms. The aim is a proportionate result that complements your figure (for example, enhancing curves while still fitting your frame).
Modern implants are very safe and durable; they can last many years. In fact, augmentation not only enlarges the breasts but can help restore lost upper-breast fullness and modestly lift the breasts if they’re mildly droopy. (For significant sagging, a lift may be needed in addition, which we’ll cover shortly.)
The procedure itself involves making a small incision (often in the crease under the breast where it’s hidden, or around the lower edge of the areola) and creating a pocket either under the chest muscle or directly behind the breast tissue, then inserting the implant. Surgery takes about 1 hour under general anesthesia. Recovery from breast augmentation is relatively quick – many patients return to office jobs in about 5–7 days and can resume full workouts by 4–6 weeks.
The instant gratification of waking up with fuller breasts is one of the thrills of this procedure, though initial swelling will make them appear a bit high and tight; they soften and settle into a natural position over a couple of months. Our patients often share that they feel more feminine, can wear styles (like form-fitting tops or swimsuits) that they avoided before, and that their confidence is sky-high after augmentation.
It’s truly a transformative, albeit straightforward, surgery. If you’re curious about breast implants, we encourage you to read our in-depth Breast Augmentation page and FAQ, which covers everything from implant types to the safety and lifespan of implants. Rest assured, Dr. Bruno uses only FDA-approved, high-quality implants and follows meticulous techniques to minimize risks and achieve beautiful symmetry and shape.
Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
A breast lift is the ideal procedure if you’re mostly happy with your breast volume but unhappy with significant sagging or droopiness. Over time, factors like aging, gravity, weight changes, and breastfeeding can cause the breasts to lose firmness and the nipples to descend to a lower position. You might notice your breasts have a deflated, elongated look or that the nipple/areola sits below the breast crease when unsupported – classic signs of ptosis (sagging).
A mastopexy, or breast lift, addresses this by removing excess stretched skin, tightening the surrounding tissue, and elevating the entire breast (gland and nipple) to a higher, perkier position. Think of it as resculpting the breasts to a more youthful contour without adding or removing volume (though it can be combined with adding implants if more fullness is wanted, or with a reduction if volume should be decreased).
During a breast lift, Dr. Bruno makes incisions (the pattern depends on the degree of lift needed – common techniques include the “lollipop” incision around the areola and vertically down, sometimes with a small horizontal incision in the crease for very significant lifts). Through these incisions, he lifts and reshapes the internal breast tissue and repositions the nipple and areola higher on the breast mound, often also reducing enlarged areola size for a proportionate look.
The result is a firmer, rounder breast that sits higher on the chest, with the nipple pointing forward (rather than downward). Importantly, a lift does not significantly change your cup size; it’s about shape and position, not size. Some patients say their breasts look slightly smaller after a lift simply because the breasts are compacted into a taut, uplifted form (and because some skin is removed), but you’re typically wearing about the same bra cup, just filled differently. If you desire both a lift and a size increase, an implant can be inserted during the same surgery – this is known as augmentation-mastopexy (more on that below).
Recovery from a breast lift is similar to augmentation: about a week off work and a few weeks of avoiding heavy lifting. There will be more visible scars than augmentation (since augmentation scars are very small), but we employ techniques to ensure scars heal as discreetly as possible. Over time (by one year or so), mastopexy scars usually fade to thin lines that are easily concealed by a bra or bikini.
The trade-off of scars is well worth the outcome for most women – finally being able to wear bras without spillage or gapping, going braless under a dress if desired, and simply having perky, youthful breasts again. Many patients report that a lift gave them back their confidence, allowing them to feel sexy and attractive in ways they hadn’t since their youth.
Be sure to check our Breast Lift page for detailed info, including a diagram of incision types and answers to common questions (like whether a lift affects breastfeeding or sensation – spoiler: Dr. Bruno’s meticulous technique preserves nipple sensation in the vast majority of cases, and many lift patients can still breastfeed in the future since the ducts are largely left intact). A well-done mastopexy truly turns back the clock for your bust!
Breast Augmentation with Lift (Augmentation-Mastopexy)
Sometimes the optimal approach is a combination of augmentation and lift in one surgery. This is common for women who not only have sagging breasts but also have lost volume (the breasts are both “empty” and droopy). For example, after breastfeeding, you might notice your upper breasts look flat and your nipples hang lower – in such cases, placing an implant alone would add volume but could result in a puckered, saggy skin envelope if not tightened; conversely, doing a lift alone would tighten and lift but you might end up with smaller-looking breasts than you want.
Combining the two addresses both issues: the implant restores fullness (especially in the upper pole of the breast) and the lift ensures the breast skin and nipple are repositioned appropriately for the new volume. It’s like restuffing and firming the pillow, to use an analogy – you add filling and also smooth the pillowcase.
Dr. Bruno has extensive expertise in augmentation-mastopexy, which is known as one of the more technically challenging cosmetic breast surgeries (because it essentially marries two opposite goals: expanding the breast with an implant while also tightening the breast skin). In the hands of an experienced surgeon like him, however, the results can be fantastic. Patients can go from flat, saggy “mom boobs” to youthful, perky, and fuller breasts all in one procedure.
The incisions and recovery are similar to a standard lift, with the addition that an implant is placed (usually under the muscle). Recovery might involve slightly more soreness (due to the implant placement stretching the muscle), but still within a week or so most patients are doing well. Supporting the augmented and lifted breast with a proper surgical bra during healing is important to reduce tension on incisions.
One thing to understand: not every patient is a candidate for a combined one-stage aug-lift; in very massive weight loss patients or extremely droopy cases, it might be safer to stage the procedures (lift first, implant later). But Dr. Bruno will assess and let you know the best route. When done together, the synergy of these procedures provides a comprehensive enhancement – the lift gives you the youthful positioning and firmness, while the implant gives you the desired volume and cleavage.
If your goal is to have both bigger and perkier breasts, this combo is likely the answer. You can find more discussion on this in our blog article “Breast Lift, Implants, or Both – What Is Right For You?”, but rest assured that during your consult, we’ll help you figure out exactly what combination will achieve your ideal outcome. The joy on a patient’s face when she sees her augmentation-mastopexy results – often restoring the look she had in her 20s or 30s – is truly rewarding for us as a practice.
Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammaplasty)
While many seek larger breasts, others seek relief from breasts that are too large and heavy. Breast reduction surgery is a procedure that reduces the size and weight of the breasts by removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin, while also reshaping the breasts to be smaller, lifted, and proportional to the body. This surgery is life-changing for women (and some men with gynecomastia, though male breast reduction differs slightly) who have suffered under the burden of very large breasts.
Symptoms leading to a reduction often include chronic neck, back, and shoulder pain (sometimes with grooving from bra straps digging in), skin rashes under the breasts, difficulty finding clothes that fit (you might be one size in the waist but several sizes larger in the bust), and limitations on physical activities like running or even sleeping comfortably. There’s also a significant emotional toll – some women feel self-conscious about the unwanted attention large breasts can bring or frustrated that their silhouette doesn’t reflect their efforts at fitness (e.g., despite weight loss, the breasts remain disproportionately large).
If any of that resonates, breast reduction could dramatically improve your quality of life. During the procedure, Dr. Bruno removes the excess tissue and repositions the nipple (much like a lift) to create a higher, more compact breast. Often a breast reduction includes a full lift as part of it – the difference is simply that we remove a lot of tissue to downsize the breast. In many cases, several pounds of tissue might be removed (though it can be as little as a few hundred grams for a minor reduction).
The result is lighter, more youthful breasts that match your frame. For example, a patient might go from a very heavy DDD-cup to a perky C-cup. It’s not just about aesthetics (though patients love the improved shape and the fact that their breasts finally have perky cleavage instead of resting on their ribcage); it’s truly about physical relief and freedom. Many women report immediate improvement in back pain after surgery – as if a literal weight has been lifted off their chest. Activities like exercise become so much easier and more enjoyable. Shopping becomes fun rather than frustrating because you can wear standard sizes and styles (strapless dress? Yes, finally possible!). Psychologically, patients often feel a surge in confidence – they are no longer defined by their bust or discomfort.
Recovery from breast reduction is slightly more involved than augmentation alone, but very manageable. You’ll have incision lines similar to a lift (usually around the areola, vertically down, and sometimes along the crease – the “anchor” pattern). These fade over time and are a small price for the benefit gained. Most reduction patients take about 1–2 weeks off from work and refrain from heavy lifting (including lifting children) for about 4–6 weeks.
Swelling can take a couple of months to fully resolve, but you’ll notice the size difference right away. We often hear, at the first post-op visit, something like: “I can already tell how much lighter I feel!” or “I went for a walk and my back didn’t hurt for the first time in years.” That makes us incredibly proud to provide this service. Although breast reduction can be medically necessary, remember Bruno Plastic Surgery is out-of-network for insurance, but we can guide you on documentation if you plan to seek reimbursement (see the FAQ on insurance for more info).
For a deep dive into what a reduction entails, including potential criteria insurance companies look for, see our Breast Reduction Surgery page and FAQ. In summary, if overly large breasts are affecting your health and lifestyle, a reduction can be truly liberating, giving you smaller, beautiful breasts and a new lease on life.
Breast Liposuction (Scar-Minimizing Breast Reduction)
For select patients, breast liposuction is an alternative method to reduce breast size with minimal incisions. Unlike a traditional breast reduction (which involves surgical excision of tissue and skin), breast liposuction uses only a few tiny incisions through which fat is suctioned out of the breasts. This approach can only remove fatty tissue – not the denser glandular tissue – so it’s best suited for women whose breasts have a higher proportion of fat (often older women past menopause, as breasts become fattier with age, or women whose heaviness is moderate and mainly fatty).
The ideal candidate has moderately enlarged breasts with good skin elasticity and not a lot of sag. In such cases, liposuction can yield a noticeable reduction (perhaps one to two cup sizes) without the more extensive scars of a formal reduction. The advantages of breast liposuction are: much smaller incisions (only a few millimeters, often on the side of the breast or near the armpit, virtually invisible once healed), generally a quicker recovery and less post-op pain, and fewer changes to nipple sensation or ability to breastfeed since it’s less invasive. Additionally, because no large incisions are made, scarring is minimal to none – a big draw for those very concerned about scar appearance.
However, it’s important to consider the limitations: liposuction cannot significantly lift the breast, so if you have sagging, liposuction alone may leave you with deflated, droopier breasts (since fat is removed but extra skin remains). It also cannot remove glandular tissue effectively, so in younger women with dense breasts, it won’t achieve a dramatic reduction.
And the amount of reduction is somewhat less precise than a surgical removal – we can suction out a good amount of fat, but we don’t have the ability to sculpt the breast shape or move the nipple position significantly. In some cases, the nipple might retract or pull in slightly as volume decreases, but not to the extent of a surgical lift. What breast lipo is great for is a mild to moderate reduction with quick recovery. Many women who undergo it are thrilled to have lighter breasts without the trade-off of scars or longer downtime. They report less bra strap grooving and more comfort in daily life.
And since liposuction inherently tightens skin a bit (through the healing process), some patients do see a gentle lift (the nipple can lift a centimeter or two as the skin retracts after fat removal). The procedure is done through 2-3 tiny incisions per breast, under either local anesthesia with sedation or light general anesthesia, and takes 1–2 hours. Recovery involves some soreness and bruising for a week or two, and wearing a supportive bra. Many return to work within just 3-5 days.
Dr. Bruno will advise if this approach is an option for you. If your breasts are quite large or pendulous, a traditional reduction will likely be needed for a satisfactory outcome. Sometimes we combine techniques – for example, using lipo to assist in a reduction to minimize scars or improve side-of-breast contour. Each patient’s anatomy is different, and we tailor our strategy accordingly.
Our page on Breast Liposuction in NEPA provides additional insight and candid discussion of pros/cons. In summary, breast lipo is a “scarless” reduction technique that, in the right candidates, offers wonderful benefits: a lighter bust and improved comfort with tiny scars and a swift recovery. It’s part of our commitment at Bruno Plastic Surgery to offer cutting-edge solutions that best fit our patients’ needs.
Breast Implant Revision and Removal
Not all cosmetic breast surgeries are about first-time enhancements – many are about refining or correcting previous breast surgeries. If you have breast implants from an earlier augmentation that you’re no longer happy with, or you’ve experienced a complication, you may seek a breast implant revision. Bruno Plastic Surgery is highly experienced in revision surgeries; in fact, Dr. Bruno’s expertise in complex cases attracts patients who want their issues fixed correctly.
Common reasons for breast revision include: desiring a size change (either larger or smaller implants than your current ones), implant complications such as capsular contracture (excess scar tissue causing hardness or distortion), implant rupture/leak (more common with older implants or trauma), implant malposition (like symmastia, “double bubble,” or one implant riding too high/low), or cosmetic concerns like implants that are too far apart or results that look unnatural. Additionally, some women with older generation implants decide to update to newer, more advanced implants or remove implants entirely (for personal preference or health concerns).
Whatever the reason, revision surgery is individually tailored because the starting point varies widely. Dr. Bruno will assess the condition of your implants and breasts via exam (and sometimes imaging) and discuss your goals. For some, revision is as straightforward as removing old implants and placing new ones of a different size or type (with or without adjusting the implant pocket).
For others, especially if implants are removed or significantly downsized, a lift may be performed in the same surgery to tighten excess skin and ensure a good breast shape post-implant. In cases of capsular contracture or rupture, the old capsule (scar tissue) and any leaked silicone may need to be removed – a process called capsulectomy – before placing new implants. This makes the surgery a bit longer but is crucial for a successful outcome.
Dr. Bruno’s meticulous approach in revision ensures that issues are properly fixed, not just masked. Our goal in revision cases is to restore your confidence and comfort. We’ve helped many patients finally achieve the soft, symmetric, beautiful breasts they wanted all along, after living with unsatisfactory results from elsewhere.
Breast implant removal (explant surgery) is also an option chosen by some women. This involves taking out the implants (and often the surrounding capsule). Reasons can include a personal decision to return to a smaller breast size, concerns about Breast Implant Illness (BII) symptoms, or discovering the implants are no longer desired as one’s lifestyle changes. Bruno Plastic Surgery absolutely supports each patient’s autonomy – if you wish to remove your implants, we’ll ensure it’s done safely and that your breasts look as good as possible afterward.
In many cases, we combine an explant with a mastopexy (lift) to tighten the breast, since once the implant is removed the breast may appear saggy. Patients are often pleasantly surprised by how nice their natural breasts look post-explant with a lift. If implant removal is being done due to a complication like rupture or a recalled textured implant, we take extra care to remove all fragments and clean the pocket.
Revision surgeries can be more complex than first-time surgeries due to scar tissue and stretched tissues, but you are in experienced hands with Dr. Bruno. He has successfully revised cases ranging from minor asymmetry corrections to full reconstructions of severely encapsulated implants. We find immense professional satisfaction in helping patients who thought they were “stuck” with a bad result. You do not have to live with breasts you dislike or implants causing you problems.
In our dedicated Breast Implant Revision page, we discuss these scenarios in depth and share success stories. During your consultation, Dr. Bruno will outline a clear plan to achieve the outcome you want – whether it’s different implants or no implants at all – and inform you of any considerations (for example, if you remove large implants you’ve had for decades, expect a somewhat smaller, perhaps droopier final breast; adding a lift can address that).
Recovery from revision depends on what’s done: exchanging implants for similar ones can have an easy recovery akin to a primary augmentation, whereas removing implants and doing a lift is more like a primary lift recovery. In general, treat it as you would any breast surgery – give yourself about a week or two off for rest, wear the support garments we provide, and avoid heavy exercise for about a month or per Dr. Bruno’s instructions.
The outcome of a successful revision is often a big relief for patients: “Finally, my breasts feel right!” or “I’m so happy I switched to the smaller implants, they suit me so much better now.” We love giving patients that sense of contentment. If you’re considering a revision, come talk to us – you’ll get an honest assessment of what can be done to achieve your goals with your existing implants.
Breast Asymmetry Correction
It’s said that nobody’s breasts are perfectly symmetrical – and that’s true, almost all women have some variation between left and right. But for some, the difference is pronounced enough to be distressing. Breast asymmetry correction is not a single procedure but rather a customized plan to make your breasts more equal in size, shape, and position.
If one breast is larger than the other, solutions could include augmenting the smaller breast (with an implant or fat transfer) or reducing the larger breast (via reduction or liposuction), or sometimes a bit of both on each side. If one breast sits lower (saggier) than the other, a unilateral lift might be performed on that side. Often, asymmetry corrections combine techniques: for instance, one side might get an implant and lift, the other just a small lift, depending on what’s needed to match them.
Asymmetry can be developmental (you were born with it, and it became more noticeable after puberty) or acquired (for example, after breastfeeding, one breast “deflated” more). It can also result from prior surgery where things healed unevenly. Regardless, Dr. Bruno approaches asymmetry like an artist working on a balanced sculpture – carefully analyzing differences in volume, nipple level, inframammary crease level, etc.
It’s important to set expectations: while significant improvements can be made, human bodies are not perfectly mirror-image, so minor differences may persist and that’s normal. The goal is to have your breasts look sisters rather than distant cousins, so that in bras and clothing (and even nude) the asymmetry isn’t apparent or bothersome.
One study found over 80% of women had noticeable breast differences, so you’re certainly not alone. But when asymmetry is severe (like one breast a C cup and the other an A cup), it can really affect self-esteem. Many women with asymmetry pad one side of their bra or avoid form-fitting tops. Correcting it can be emotionally freeing – finally you can shop for bras normally and feel proportionate. The techniques used depend on the case: If one breast is just a bit smaller, a small implant on that side might suffice.
If one is significantly bigger, a reduction on that side could be done to match the smaller side (sometimes we then put a small implant in the smaller side too, to fine-tune shape and volume). If one nipple is lower, a one-sided lift brings it up to the level of the other. We pay attention to areola size too – reducing one side’s areola if needed to match the other. The surgical incisions and recovery are similar to whatever techniques are used (augmentation, lift, etc., just possibly one-sided).
Recovery in unilateral cases can actually feel easier than bilateral since one side is less manipulated – but you must still be cautious and allow full healing. Asymmetry correction is often done under general anesthesia in about 2–3 hours, depending on complexity. Stitches come out in a week or two if not dissolvable. We may have you wear a particular bra or even a small bolster on one side if needed to keep things level as they heal.
Over the ensuing weeks, swelling will subside and you’ll see the final symmetry improving. Sometimes a tiny asymmetry might remain; in rare cases a minor touch-up could be done under local anesthesia (like liposuctioning a bit more fat or adding a bit of fat graft) if a patient desires further refinement – but most are delighted with the initial outcome. A huge bonus: Asymmetry correction often inherently involves a lift or augmentation on one or both sides, so not only are the breasts more symmetrical, they also tend to be perkier and shapelier than before. It’s truly a confidence-boosting transformation.
Our Breast Asymmetry Correction page goes into more detail and shares examples of how different mismatches are corrected. If asymmetry has bothered you for years, don’t hesitate to consult with us. You might be surprised how straightforward the solution can be. Dr. Bruno will devise the safest, most effective plan to give you breasts that look like they belong together – and belong on you. After all, you deserve to feel great about your body’s balance and beauty.
Our Commitment to Excellent Results and Care
No matter which breast procedure (or combination) you undergo, you can expect the hallmark Bruno Plastic Surgery care: compassionate guidance, advanced surgical skill, and a sincere dedication to your happiness. Dr. Bruno’s precise techniques help ensure beautiful scars and long-lasting results. We use techniques like internal sutures and careful handling of tissues to optimize healing.
We also stay by your side through recovery – follow-up visits are scheduled to check your progress, and you’re encouraged to call with any questions. Our many thrilled breast surgery patients are a testament to our commitment: they report not only loving their results but also feeling genuinely cared for by our team. We never treat you as “just another case” – we know your story and your goals are unique, and we’re honored to be part of your journey to greater confidence.
It’s also worth mentioning that we practice surgery with an eye on the future. For younger women who may want children, we plan incisions and techniques that best preserve breastfeeding ability whenever possible (though any breast surgery can potentially impact milk production, many augmentation and lift patients do successfully breastfeed later – and we discuss those considerations individually).
For those with implants, we provide guidance on implant maintenance and eventual replacement (modern implants are durable, but not lifetime devices – many women choose to exchange or remove them after 10-20 years, and we’ll be here to help when that time comes). If you’re undergoing a reduction, we focus on techniques that maximize blood supply to the nipple for safety and sensation. Our meticulous approach and forward-thinking mindset help avoid complications, but if any arise, we will manage them promptly and effectively. Your safety and satisfaction are truly our top priorities.
In conclusion, Cosmetic Breast Surgery Services at Bruno Plastic Surgery are comprehensive and cutting-edge. From making breasts bigger, to making them smaller, to lifting them higher, to evening them out – we do it all with artistry and empathy. We understand the profound impact these changes can have on your everyday life, and we take that responsibility to heart.
When you come to us for breast enhancement, you become part of the Bruno Plastic Surgery family. We’ll ensure you feel informed, supported, and excited from the first consult to the final result. Northeast Pennsylvania has many women (and men) now enjoying life more, thanks to the breast procedures they underwent with us – we invite you to join them in feeling comfortable and confident in your own body.
If you’re ready to explore what breast cosmetic surgery can do for you, schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Bruno. We can’t wait to help you achieve your goals and see you flourish with new confidence!
Resource Center – Breast Surgery Pages
Detailed information on breast implant surgery, including implant choices, the procedure, and recovery tips.
All about mastopexy: who needs it, how it’s done, and what results you can expect.
Breast Reduction Surgery in NEPA:
Learn how reduction can relieve pain and improve your life, plus insight into insurance considerations.
A closer look at our scar-minimizing breast reduction technique for moderate cases.
Breast Implant Revision in NEPA:
If you have existing implants and want a change or have an issue, read about our expertise in correction and revision procedures.
Breast Asymmetry Correction in NEPA:
See how we address uneven breasts with tailored solutions, including before/after examples.
(Click the above pages to continue learning. Each contains an FAQ section specific to that topic. As always, our office is just a call away to answer any further questions or to book your consultation.)
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FAQs
Do I need a breast lift, breast implants, or both?
This is one of the most common questions, and the answer depends on your specific anatomy and goals. In general, breast implants (augmentation) are best if you want to increase volume and fullness, especially in the upper part of the breast. Implants will make the breasts bigger and can provide a slight lift (they fill out loose skin a bit), but implants alone do not correct significant sagging. A breast lift (mastopexy) is the go-to if you’re mainly concerned with breast droopiness and nipple position, but are satisfied with your volume. A lift will tighten skin and elevate the breasts, making them perkier, but it won’t add upper fullness or size. If your breasts are both saggy and lacking volume (for example, after children you might have “empty, droopy” breasts), then combining a lift with implants may be the ideal solution. The combination (augmentation-mastopexy) allows us to both increase size and rearrange tissue for a youthful shape and nipple placement. On the other hand, if your breasts are large but droopy, you might need a reduction with lift – which removes weight and also lifts the breast.
To determine what you need, do this simple test: Look at your nipple relative to your breast crease. If your nipple has fallen below the crease and points downward, a lift is likely needed to restore a youthful position. If you also wish your breasts were bigger, add an implant to that plan. If your nipples are above the crease and pointing forward but you just want bigger size, an implant alone suffices. Dr. Bruno will carefully evaluate you during your consultation and give an honest recommendation. We’ve had patients think they needed a lift when they didn’t (implants filled them out nicely), and others who hoped to avoid a lift but truly needed one for a good result. Each case is unique. Rest assured, the goal is to achieve beautiful, proportionate breasts. Sometimes that’s one procedure, sometimes two. With Dr. Bruno’s expertise, either approach (or both in combination) can be done safely and yield a gorgeous outcome – so trust his guidance on what will give you the look you want. In summary: implants for volume, lift for position – and both if required. We’ll create the right plan for you.
Are breast implants safe, and how long do they last?
Yes, modern breast implants are considered very safe medical devices, and complications are relatively low. We use only FDA-approved implants from top manufacturers. Silicone gel implants today are often the “gummy bear” type – a cohesive gel that tends to stay together even if the shell breaks, which adds to safety. Multiple large studies have found no link between silicone implants and systemic diseases like autoimmune disorders – in fact, the FDA actively monitors implant safety and requires manufacturers to conduct long-term studies. That said, any surgical implant in the body (whether a breast implant, hip joint, etc.) carries some risks. In implants, the primary risks include capsular contracture (scar tissue hardening around the implant), rupture or leakage over time (saline leaks are harmlessly absorbed; silicone leaks usually stay in the capsule and are often silent), and in very rare cases, ALCL (a treatable lymphoma associated with certain textured implants – note: Dr. Bruno primarily uses smooth implants, and textured ones linked to ALCL have been mostly taken off the market). Overall, the incidence of serious complications is low, and we take every precaution to further minimize risk (sterile “no-touch” techniques to reduce capsular contracture risk, proper implant sizing to avoid undue stress on tissues, etc.).
As for how long implants last: They are not lifetime devices. Implants do not have an expiration date, but they also aren’t guaranteed to last forever. The general guidance is that if you have no problems, you do not need to automatically replace them at a set time. However, many women elect some sort of revision or replacement at around the 10–20 year mark. According to some data, the rupture rate of silicone implants is about 1% per year – so roughly 10% at 10 years (some do last much longer). Saline implants will clearly flatten if they rupture, whereas silicone ruptures can be silent (this is why the FDA recommends periodic MRI scans after 5-6 years to check integrity). If an implant ruptures, it isn’t a medical emergency, but you’ll want to have it addressed and replaced. Aside from rupture, you might choose to change implants due to shifting cosmetic preferences (maybe you got them at 25 and at 45 you want a different size or to remove them). So realistically, you should be prepared that at least one additional surgery may be likely in your lifetime for maintenance or change.
The good news is that implant exchange or removal is typically easier than the first augmentation. And if you decide decades later you don’t want implants, a removal with or without a lift can restore a pleasing bust (with age-appropriate expectations). Dr. Bruno discusses the long-term aspect of having implants during your consult, so you’re well informed. Additionally, implant manufacturers provide warranties – for example, if an implant ruptures within 10 years, the company often provides replacement implants free and contributes to surgical costs. We’ll register you for your implant warranty and explain those details. In short: implants are safe for the vast majority of women, with a low complication profile. They last many years, often over a decade, but likely not forever. With proper monitoring and the option of revision when needed, women can enjoy their augmented breasts throughout life. Dr. Bruno will be your partner in care for as long as you have implants – we’re here if any issues arise down the road. Many of our patients maintain beautiful, soft augmented breasts for a very long time and feel it was completely worth it.
Will I be able to breastfeed after breast surgery?
The ability to breastfeed after cosmetic breast surgery depends on the type of procedure and the techniques used, but many women can successfully breastfeed after surgery, especially with careful surgical planning.
Here’s a breakdown:
– Breast Augmentation: Most augmentation patients retain the ability to breastfeed. This is because the implant is typically placed either under the chest muscle or beneath the breast tissue, but the breast glands and ducts themselves are not significantly disturbed. We usually use incisions either under the breast or around the areola’s edge. An inframammary (under-breast) incision doesn’t involve the gland at all, so it has virtually no impact on future milk production. A periareolar incision (around the nipple) could in rare cases partially affect a few milk ducts, but surgeons take care to minimize any disruption to the nipple complex’s functional anatomy. Studies have shown augmentation does not significantly lower breastfeeding success rates – if you could breastfeed before, you likely can after. That said, some women (with or without surgery) have trouble breastfeeding for various reasons, so it’s not a guarantee, but implants themselves are generally not a barrier. Also note: silicone implants pose no risk to breast milk; extensive research found no extra silicone in milk of implant patients vs. without, so it’s safe to breastfeed with implants.
– Breast Lift / Breast Reduction: These procedures potentially have a higher impact on breastfeeding because they involve cutting through breast tissue and relocating the nipple. In a lift or reduction, the nipple is often moved higher and remains attached to an underlying stalk of tissue for blood supply, but some milk ducts are cut especially in reductions. A lot depends on the technique – Dr. Bruno uses methods aiming to preserve as much of the central mound of breast tissue (which contains ductwork to the nipple) as possible. Many women have been able to breastfeed after a lift or reduction, at least partially (some may need to supplement with formula). Generally, the larger the reduction (more tissue removed), the greater the chance some gland tissue needed for milk is gone or some ducts are severed. If breastfeeding is extremely important to you and you haven’t had children yet, you might consider postponing reduction until after family completion, or accept that you may need formula. With lifts, especially minor ones, most of the gland is intact so breastfeeding is more likely.
– Implant Removal / Revision: Removing implants or changing them usually doesn’t affect breastfeeding further – if you could or couldn’t before, it’s typically the same after, unless a mastopexy is added (in which case consider the above about lifts).
It’s crucial to communicate your future family plans to Dr. Bruno. If you strongly desire the ability to nurse, he can adjust technique accordingly (for example, in a reduction, choose a technique that leaves more tissue under the nipple). Keep in mind, some women with very large or very asymmetric breasts might have had difficulty breastfeeding even before surgery – breast anatomy varies. After surgery, especially reduction, the sensation of “let-down” or milk flow might be reduced, and baby’s latch may need adjustment if nipple position/shape changed, but many patients do manage it.
In summary, breast augmentation has minimal impact on breastfeeding, while lifts and reductions carry a risk of reduced ability, though not an absolute inability in all cases. We have had breast reduction patients successfully nurse their babies – often with some patience and perhaps partial supplementation, but they were happy to provide some breast milk. If you cannot breastfeed after surgery, remember that formula-fed babies also thrive – so prioritize your own health and well-being too. Our team includes this topic in pre-op counseling for younger patients. And if you become pregnant after a breast surgery, come see us; we’ll check that everything (implants, etc.) is okay and advise on any precautions.
The female body is remarkable – even post-surgery, it often finds a way to nourish a baby if conditions allow. But you should be mentally prepared for the possibility it may not work and that’s okay. Ultimately, having the breast appearance that makes you confident now, versus the potential to breastfeed years later, is a personal weighing of priorities. Many choose to proceed with surgery and have no regrets, even if breastfeeding ends up not possible – they enjoy motherhood all the same, and they enjoyed years of improved quality of life thanks to their surgery. Dr. Bruno will help you make an informed decision based on your desires.
What kind of scars will I have after breast surgery, and how visible will they be?
Whenever we perform surgery that involves incisions, there will be scars – that’s an inevitable part of the healing process. However, Dr. Bruno is very mindful of scar placement and quality, so that your scars are as discreet as possible.
The location and length of scars depend on the procedure:
– Breast Augmentation: The most common incision we use is in the inframammary fold (the crease under the breast). This typically results in a ~1.5 to 2 inch scar hidden in that fold. When you stand up, the breast often covers it. These scars tend to heal quite well – in many patients they fade to a thin line that is hard to see unless you’re looking up at the breast from below. We also perform augmentations with peri-areolar incisions in some cases (around the lower half of the areola’s border). Those scars usually blend with the change in skin pigment at the areola. If you have very small areolas or other considerations, the crease is preferred. There’s also a transaxillary (armpit) approach, which leaves a scar in the armpit and none on the breast – Dr. Bruno can do this on request or if anatomy suits, but it’s less common as it can be slightly less precise for implant positioning. Regardless, augmentation scars are quite minimal and often not noticeable even in swimwear. We’ll guide you in scar care – things like silicone gel, massage, and sun protection – to optimize their appearance.
– Breast Lift / Reduction: These involve more extensive incisions because we are removing skin and repositioning tissue. A full mastopexy or reduction often has an “anchor” or inverted-T scar: one around the nipple (allowing us to reshape and possibly resize the areola), a vertical scar down to the crease, and sometimes a horizontal scar along the crease. The exact pattern depends on how much lift is needed – for a smaller lift, you may only have a “lollipop” (around areola + vertical). These scars are initially more visible than augmentation scars, but they are placed in locations normally covered by a bra or bikini. The vertical scar is on the lower pole of the breast – it usually lightens significantly over 6-12 months. The areolar scar often blends well with the edge of the areola (the pigment transition helps camouflage). The horizontal inframammary scar hides under the breast fold. After about a year, many patients say the scars don’t bother them, especially given how much better their breasts look and feel. If you form hypertrophic (thicker) scars, we can provide treatments like steroid injections or laser to improve them. Fortunately, most breast lift/reduction patients heal nicely – the scars may be pink for a few months, then gradually turn whitish or skin-colored and flatten out. We’ll give detailed scar care instructions; avoiding sun on fresh scars is key (UV can darken them). Also, the scars will continue to mature up to 2 years. By that point, many are fine lines.
– Breast Liposuction: One benefit is very tiny scars. You’ll have maybe 2-3 incisions about 3-4 mm long each (the size of a pencil eraser or smaller), usually on the side of the breast or near the underarm and possibly one in the crease. These heal as little dots that often become nearly imperceptible. We often have to search to find them at follow-ups!
– Breast Implant Revision/Removal: Typically uses your old scar site if possible, so you don’t gain new scars (e.g., re-open the crease or areola scar). If we do a lift with removal, then the lift’s scar pattern applies. Removal alone through an old scar is most common, leaving you just with the old scar which usually fades even more with time.
The good news is that scars on the breast/chest area generally heal better than, say, abdominal scars, because the skin there is more mobile and has good blood supply. Plus, you see them directly, so you can diligently apply scar therapies. Bruno Plastic Surgery will equip you with scar gel and guidance. We even offer laser scar revision down the road if needed, at a discount for our patients. Remember, scars are the trade-off for improved shape or size. Most women, when weighing visible scars vs. saggy or disproportionately large/small breasts, choose the scars – and after they heal, they usually say, “These scars were a small price to pay for how great I feel now.” In clothing or a bikini, others typically won’t see any scars.
Even in intimate situations, partners rarely find them off-putting, especially as they fade – they’re just evidence of you taking charge of your body. If you’re prone to keloids or bad scarring, mention that; Dr. Bruno can take preventative measures (special closure techniques, maybe post-op scar taping). Thankfully, keloids on the breast are uncommon (more often occur on chest sternum or shoulders). In summary, breast surgery scars are usually very manageable, strategically placed to be hidden, and they improve greatly over time with proper care.
Does health insurance cover breast reduction or other breast surgeries?
Health insurance in the U.S. generally does not cover cosmetic procedures, but it may cover procedures deemed medically necessary. Among the surgeries we’ve discussed, breast reduction is the one that sometimes qualifies for insurance coverage, because it can alleviate documented medical issues (like chronic back/neck pain, rashes, etc.). Each insurance company has specific criteria: typically they require evidence that you’ve tried conservative treatments (physical therapy, special bras, etc.), documentation from your doctor of symptoms, and often a minimum amount of tissue to be removed based on your body weight (for example, some insurers say at least 500 grams per breast must be removed for it to be “medically necessary”). These criteria can be quite strict and unfortunately arbitrary. Even if you meet them, approval can be a slow process and not guaranteed.
Now, at Bruno Plastic Surgery, we do not directly take insurance – we are an out-of-network/private practice focusing on cosmetic and elective cases. What this means is if you want a breast reduction with us, it would be a self-pay (we can provide you with the forms to seek reimbursement on your own, but payment to us is your responsibility). Some patients still choose to do that because they want Dr. Bruno’s expertise and don’t want to jump through insurance hoops or wait. Others might try to go through insurance with an in-network surgeon, and that’s a personal decision – just ensure that surgeon is experienced in reductions (since it’s as much an art as a medical necessity). If you do go through insurance, expect to provide documentation and possibly letters from other healthcare providers, and even then approval isn’t certain.
For other breast surgeries: Augmentation, lifts, implant revisions (unless it’s related to breast reconstruction after cancer), asymmetry correction – these are typically considered cosmetic and not covered. One exception could be if asymmetry is extreme (like one breast didn’t develop – a condition called Poland syndrome, or after mastectomy on one side) – then insurance might cover making the breasts even, considering part of it reconstructive. But for typical cosmetic asymmetry or changes after pregnancy, insurance will not cover it. Implant removal might be covered if there’s a clear medical issue (like a ruptured implant causing problems, or ALCL treatment requiring removal). Even then, coverage is hit-or-miss and may only cover part (e.g., removal but not replacement, calling replacement cosmetic).
It’s important to know that even if insurance does approve a reduction, you may have co-pays, deductibles, etc., and the process can be lengthy. Some patients find it worth it to just pay out of pocket and get it done on their own timeline. We do offer financing to ease the financial aspect (see our financing options, which many use for reductions if they don’t want to pursue insurance). On the flip side, if you have a case for medical necessity and want to try insurance, Dr. Bruno can evaluate you and let you know if it’s realistic. In some instances, he can write a letter for your primary doctor to include in an insurance request, even if he won’t be the one doing the insurance-based surgery, just to support you. But again, insurance companies have varying policies.
In summary: Cosmetic breast surgeries are usually self-funded, except breast reduction sometimes. Bruno Plastic Surgery is an out-of-network provider, so our services are billed to you, not insurance. If you do proceed with us for a reduction or similar, we can give you medical documentation (like operative reports, notes) afterward, and you could attempt to file a claim for reimbursement. Some patients have gotten partial reimbursement this way if they have out-of-network benefits and a supportive primary care referral. However, it’s not guaranteed and often the amount is small or subject to deductibles.
We know cost is a concern, so during your consult we will be upfront about fees and provide a detailed quote. We’ll also discuss the value you’ll be getting – for many, the improvement in quality of life or confidence is priceless. We do everything we can to make it accessible, like offering payment plans. If insurance won’t help, don’t lose hope: there are plenty of financing options that can make your surgery doable (often with low or no interest promotional periods). Our patients frequently tell us afterward that it was “the best money I ever spent on myself.” Only you can decide the financial route that’s best, but we’re here to assist with information.
Finally, if you have an HSA/FSA account, note that truly cosmetic surgeries usually cannot be paid from those pre-tax accounts. But if it’s a grey area (e.g., extremely symptomatic large breasts), some have used HSA for a portion. Consult your HSA rules or accountant on that. We provide the appropriate medical receipts if needed.
In conclusion, insurance coverage for breast procedures is limited, but don’t let that deter you from seeking the care you need. We’ll help guide you through your options. Our primary goal is your wellbeing and satisfaction – and we’ve seen how a successful breast surgery, even if paid out of pocket, ends up being one of the best investments in self-care a person can make. You’re worth it!