Is a Breast Augmentation Painful?

Most individuals describe the discomfort after breast augmentation as mild to moderate and manageable with prescribed medication during the first several days. It’s common to experience tightness, soreness, and swelling, particularly when implants are placed beneath the chest muscle. These symptoms gradually improve as your body heals, and most people notice steady progress during the first week.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

Your journey typically begins with an initial consultation followed by your surgical procedure and several follow-up visits to monitor healing. The exact number of appointments varies depending on your individual recovery and whether additional follow-up care is needed. Dr. Chopra will outline your expected schedule during your consultation.

How Long Until I See Results?

You’ll notice an increase in breast volume immediately after surgery, but swelling will temporarily affect your appearance. Over the following weeks, the implants gradually settle into position while the swelling continues to improve. Final results are typically appreciated over the course of several months as healing progresses.

What Will the Scarring Look Like?

Every surgical incision creates a scar, but Dr. Chopra carefully plans incision placement to make scars as discreet as possible. Their appearance depends on the incision technique used, your skin type, and how your body heals. Most scars gradually soften and fade over time with proper care.

When Can I Exercise Again After My Breast Augmentation?

Light walking is encouraged soon after surgery to promote circulation. More strenuous exercise, upper-body workouts, and heavy lifting should be postponed until Dr. Chopra determines your healing is progressing appropriately. Returning to activity too soon may interfere with your recovery.

How Soon Can I Travel After a Breast Augmentation?

Travel recommendations vary depending on the distance and method of travel. Many individuals can travel after their initial follow-up appointment, although longer trips may require additional planning. Dr. Chopra will provide personalized guidance based on your recovery and travel plans.

What Are the Risks Associated with Breast Augmentation?

Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation carries potential risks, including bleeding, infection, changes in sensation, implant-related complications, scarring, and anesthesia risks. Following your pre- and post-operative instructions and attending your follow-up appointments can help support a smooth recovery. Dr. Chopra will review these risks with you during your consultation so you can make an informed decision.

How Do I Find the Best Breast Augmentation Plastic Surgeon in McLean, VA?

When choosing a plastic surgeon, look for someone who is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), has extensive experience performing breast augmentation, and takes time to develop a personalized treatment plan. Reviewing before-and-after photos, learning about the surgeon’s education and training, and scheduling a consultation can also help you determine whether they’re the right fit. Dr. Chopra’s advanced fellowship training, personalized approach, and commitment to natural-looking results have made him a trusted choice for many individuals seeking Breast Augmentation in McLean.²

Tysons Corner & McLean, VA | Washington, D.C.

Breast Augmentation

Introduction

Introduction to Breast Augmentation

Feeling confident in your appearance begins with making choices that reflect your personal goals. Whether you’ve always wanted fuller breasts, hope to restore volume after pregnancy or weight loss, or are looking to create better balance throughout your figure, breast augmentation can be tailored to your unique anatomy. At Chopra Cosmetic Surgery, every surgical plan is thoughtfully customized to create beautiful, proportionate results rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach.

Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Vinod “V” Chopra combines advanced training with an artistic approach to breast enhancement, helping each patient achieve results that complement their natural proportions and lifestyle. Conveniently located in Fairfax, Chopra Cosmetic Surgery proudly welcomes individuals seeking breast augmentation in McLean, Tysons Corner, Northern Virginia, and the greater Washington, D.C. area.

What Is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that increases breast volume and improves breast shape using breast implants. It is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic plastic surgery procedures and is highly customizable, allowing you to select the implant type, size, shape, and placement based on your anatomy and aesthetic goals.

At Chopra Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Chopra offers several implant options, including Mentor® implants, Natrelle® implants by Allergan, and Preservé™ by Motiva®, allowing your surgical plan to be tailored to your individual needs. During your consultation, he carefully evaluates your existing breast tissue, chest wall dimensions, skin elasticity, and overall body proportions to recommend the most appropriate approach.

The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient surgery. After creating carefully planned incisions, Dr. Chopra develops a precise implant pocket based on the surgical technique best suited to your anatomy.

Depending on your goals, this may include a traditional placement beneath the chest muscle or an advanced Subfascial Breast Augmentation, in which the implant is positioned beneath the fascia covering the pectoralis muscle while remaining above the muscle itself. He also offers Preservation Breast Augmentation for appropriately selected candidates, a technique designed to preserve as much of the breast’s natural anatomy and support structures as possible while creating beautiful, natural-looking results.

Once the implant is positioned, symmetry is evaluated, and the incisions are meticulously closed before you are taken to recovery. Most breast augmentation procedures take approximately one to two hours to complete.¹

While increasing breast size is a common goal, breast augmentation can also restore lost volume following pregnancy, breastfeeding, aging, or significant weight loss. Many individuals also choose the procedure to improve breast symmetry or create better balance between their breasts and the rest of their body. For those with noticeable sagging, Dr. Chopra may recommend combining Breast Augmentation with a breast lift to achieve the most comprehensive result.²

A young woman with shoulder-length brown hair and a light complexion is shown from the mid-chest up, gazing toward the upper right. One arm is raised above her head. She wears a fitted, black ribbed sleeveless top and subtle makeup. The background is a plain light beige or gray, with soft, professional lighting casting gentle shadows and highlights. - Breast Augmentation in Fairfax, VA

Why Choose Dr. Chopra for Breast Augmentation in McLean, VA?

Choosing a plastic surgeon is one of the most important decisions you will make during your cosmetic journey. Dr. Vinod “V” Chopra has dedicated his career to aesthetic surgery, combining extensive surgical training with an individualized approach that emphasizes natural-looking results. Every breast augmentation procedure begins with a detailed consultation, allowing him to understand your goals while developing a treatment plan that complements your body rather than simply increasing cup size.
Dr. Chopra graduated with Honors in Biochemistry from the University of Virginia before earning his Doctor of Medicine from The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. He completed rigorous training through a General Surgery residency followed by a Plastic Surgery residency at Cooper University Hospital. He then pursued additional subspecialty education with a fellowship in reconstructive microsurgery at Weill Cornell Medical College and an Aesthetic Surgery Fellowship endorsed by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (The Aesthetic Society), providing advanced experience in cosmetic breast surgery and other aesthetic procedures.
Dr. Chopra is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and has earned recognition as a Washingtonian Top Doctor, Virginia Living Top Doctor, and one of Washington’s Top Healthcare Providers. These honors reflect both his technical expertise and his reputation for delivering consistently outstanding patient care.³
At Chopra Cosmetic Surgery, breast augmentation is never approached with a cookie-cutter philosophy. Dr. Chopra offers multiple implant manufacturers, including Mentor®, Natrelle® by Allergan, and Preservé™ by Motiva®, as well as advanced techniques such as preservation breast augmentation and Subfascial Breast Augmentation for appropriately selected candidates. Rather than recommending the same procedure for everyone, he carefully considers implant dimensions, tissue characteristics, chest anatomy, and long-term outcomes to determine the technique best suited to each individual. His goal is to create proportionate, elegant enhancements that fit your lifestyle while preserving a soft, natural appearance. Individuals seeking breast augmentation appreciate the time he spends educating them, answering questions, and ensuring they feel confident throughout every step of their experience.

Close-up, low-angle shot of a woman with long, wavy blonde hair and light tan skin. She wears a white, strapless embroidered bra and has her eyes closed with a serene, contemplative expression. Warm, golden sunlight highlights her face and hair against a dark background, creating a soft, sunlit atmosphere. - Neck Liposuction in Fairfax, VA

Breast Augmentation Quick Facts

Surgery Time: Approximately 1-2 hours
Price: Varies based on your individualized surgical plan. For an accurate quote, please schedule a consultation.
Recovery: Most individuals return to non-strenuous activities within about one week, with exercise gradually resumed over several weeks.
Results: Initial improvements are visible immediately, with final results continuing to refine as swelling resolves over several months.

What Are the Benefits of Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation remains one of the most popular cosmetic procedures because it offers highly customizable improvements that can be tailored to your individual anatomy and cosmetic goals. Whether you desire subtle enhancement or a more noticeable increase in volume, Dr. Chopra designs every procedure to create balanced, natural-looking results for individuals seeking breast augmentation.

Benefits may include:

Increased breast volume and fullness
Improved breast symmetry
Restoration of volume after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss
Enhanced cleavage and upper-pole fullness
Better balance between the breasts and overall body proportions
Greater clothing and swimwear options
Long-lasting results with modern breast implants
A personalized surgical plan tailored to your aesthetic goals

For individuals with loose skin or significant breast descent, combining breast augmentation with a breast lift may provide more comprehensive rejuvenation by restoring both volume and breast position. Dr. Chopra discusses all available options during your consultation to help you make an informed decision based on your anatomy and desired outcome. ²

Who Are the Best Candidates for a Breast Augmentation?

The best candidates for breast augmentation are healthy adults who want to enhance breast size, improve breast shape, or restore lost volume. During your consultation, Dr. Chopra performs a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether surgery is appropriate and to recommend the implant options that best complement your body.

You may be a good candidate if you:

Desire fuller or more proportionate breasts
Have experienced volume loss following pregnancy or weight changes
Have naturally small breasts or noticeable breast asymmetry
Are physically healthy and do not have uncontrolled medical conditions
Maintain realistic expectations about surgery and recovery
Are at or near a stable body weight
Do not smoke or are willing to stop before and after surgery
Are seeking long-lasting enhancement with natural-looking results

Your consultation is also an opportunity to discuss your lifestyle, future pregnancy plans, implant preferences, and long-term goals. These conversations help Dr. Chopra develop a surgical plan that fits your anatomy while supporting beautiful, lasting results you’ll feel confident about for years to come.

How to Begin Your Breast Augmentation Journey

Your breast augmentation journey begins with a personalized consultation at Chopra Cosmetic Surgery. During your visit, Dr. Chopra takes time to understand your goals, evaluate your anatomy, and explain the options available to help you achieve the results you’re looking for. Together, you’ll create a surgical plan tailored to your body, lifestyle, and long-term expectations.

Schedule Your Private Consultation: Meet with Dr. Chopra to discuss your concerns, aesthetic goals, and what you hope to achieve through breast augmentation.
Receive a Comprehensive Evaluation: Your breast tissue, chest dimensions, skin quality, and overall body proportions will be carefully assessed to determine the most appropriate surgical approach.
Explore Your Implant Options: Review implant types, sizes, profiles, placement techniques, and incision options while learning how each choice may influence your final results.
Develop Your Personalized Surgical Plan: Based on your anatomy and preferences, Dr. Chopra will recommend a customized treatment plan designed to create balanced, natural-looking enhancement.
Prepare for Surgery with Confidence: Our team will provide detailed pre-operative instructions and answer your questions so you know exactly what to expect before, during, and after surgery.

A young woman with shoulder-length wavy brown hair and light skin gazes thoughtfully out a window. She wears a black lacy crop top under a sheer top. A beige fuzzy chair is behind her, with soft, diffused lighting highlighting her face and upper body. - Breast Reduction in Fairfax, VA

Steps of Selecting Your Implants

Selecting breast implants is about much more than choosing a cup size. Every decision, from implant type and dimensions to placement and incision location, contributes to your final result. During your consultation, Dr. Chopra explains each option in detail and helps you choose the combination that best complements your anatomy, lifestyle, and aesthetic goals.

Type of Implant

One of the first decisions you’ll make is selecting the implant that best fits your anatomy and cosmetic goals. Dr. Chopra offers both saline and silicone implants, including trusted options from Mentor®, Natrelle® by Allergan, and Preservé™ by Motiva®. Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water after placement and may require a slightly smaller incision, while silicone implants are pre-filled with a cohesive gel designed to provide a soft, natural feel. Most often, silicone implants are the preferred implant for breast augmentation. During your consultation, Dr. Chopra will explain the benefits of each implant and recommend the option that best aligns with your body type, lifestyle, and desired results.¹

Implant size is selected based on your body proportions rather than bra cup size alone. Dr. Chopra considers your chest width, existing breast tissue, skin elasticity, and overall frame to recommend implant dimensions that create balanced, proportional results. His goal is to achieve enhancement that looks natural and complements your figure instead of overwhelming it.

Depending on your goals, you may choose between round implants or anatomically shaped implants when appropriate. Round implants often provide additional fullness in the upper portion of the breast, while shaped implants are designed to create a gentle slope that resembles natural breast anatomy. Dr. Chopra explains which option is best suited to your desired outcome.

Implant placement is another important part of your surgical plan. Depending on your anatomy and cosmetic goals, Dr. Chopra may recommend placing the implant beneath the chest muscle or utilizing Subfascial Breast Augmentation, where the implant is positioned beneath the thin layer of fascia that covers the pectoralis muscle. This approach may be appropriate for select candidates and is discussed in detail during your consultation.

In addition to traditional breast augmentation techniques, Dr. Chopra offers Preservation Breast Augmentation for appropriately selected candidates. This approach focuses on preserving as much of the breast’s natural anatomy and support structures as possible while achieving beautiful enhancement. During your consultation, Dr. Chopra will determine whether this technique is appropriate based on your anatomy and aesthetic goals.

The location of your incision is another important decision during the planning process. Dr. Chopra will recommend the approach that best supports your anatomy, implant selection, and cosmetic goals while also considering scar placement and surgical access. Together, you’ll discuss the advantages and considerations of each option to determine which technique is most appropriate for your procedure.

Common incision techniques include:
- Inframammary: Made within the natural crease beneath the breast, this is the most commonly used approach because the scar is typically well concealed in the breast fold.
- Transaxillary: The incision is placed within the underarm, allowing the implant to be inserted without creating a scar on the breast itself. An endoscope may be used to assist with implant placement.
- Periareolar: The incision is made around the edge of the areola, where the change in skin color can help camouflage the scar. Dr. Chopra will discuss whether this approach is appropriate based on your anatomy and surgical goals.
- Transumbilical Breast Augmentation (TUBA): For select candidates, an incision may be made near the belly button, allowing the implant to be placed using an endoscope.

- Implant size is selected based on your body proportions rather than bra cup size alone. Dr. Chopra considers your chest width, existing breast tissue, skin elasticity, and overall frame to recommend implant dimensions that create balanced, proportional results. His goal is to achieve enhancement that looks natural and complements your figure instead of overwhelming it.
- Depending on your goals, you may choose between round implants or anatomically shaped implants when appropriate. Round implants often provide additional fullness in the upper portion of the breast, while shaped implants are designed to create a gentle slope that resembles natural breast anatomy. Dr. Chopra explains which option is best suited to your desired outcome.
- Implant placement is another important part of your surgical plan. Depending on your anatomy and cosmetic goals, Dr. Chopra may recommend placing the implant beneath the chest muscle or utilizing Subfascial Breast Augmentation, where the implant is positioned beneath the thin layer of fascia that covers the pectoralis muscle. This approach may be appropriate for select candidates and is discussed in detail during your consultation.
- In addition to traditional breast augmentation techniques, Dr. Chopra offers Preservation Breast Augmentation for appropriately selected candidates. This approach focuses on preserving as much of the breast’s natural anatomy and support structures as possible while achieving beautiful enhancement. During your consultation, Dr. Chopra will determine whether this technique is appropriate based on your anatomy and aesthetic goals.
- The location of your incision is another important decision during the planning process. Dr. Chopra will recommend the approach that best supports your anatomy, implant selection, and cosmetic goals while also considering scar placement and surgical access. Together, you’ll discuss the advantages and considerations of each option to determine which technique is most appropriate for your procedure.
  
  Common incision techniques include:
  - Inframammary: Made within the natural crease beneath the breast, this is the most commonly used approach because the scar is typically well concealed in the breast fold.
  - Transaxillary: The incision is placed within the underarm, allowing the implant to be inserted without creating a scar on the breast itself. An endoscope may be used to assist with implant placement.
  - Periareolar: The incision is made around the edge of the areola, where the change in skin color can help camouflage the scar. Dr. Chopra will discuss whether this approach is appropriate based on your anatomy and surgical goals.
  - Transumbilical Breast Augmentation (TUBA): For select candidates, an incision may be made near the belly button, allowing the implant to be placed using an endoscope.

Breast Augmentation Recovery

Recovering from breast augmentation is a gradual process, and every individual heals at their own pace. It’s normal to experience swelling, tightness, bruising, and mild to moderate discomfort during the first several days after surgery. These symptoms typically improve as your body heals, and Dr. Chopra will provide detailed postoperative instructions to help support a smooth recovery.

Most individuals are able to return to light daily activities within about one week, although strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided until cleared by Dr. Chopra. Wearing your surgical bra as directed, attending follow-up appointments, and following your recovery guidelines are all important steps toward achieving the best possible outcome. While you’ll notice an improvement in breast volume immediately after surgery, your implants will continue to settle, and swelling will gradually resolve over the following weeks and months, revealing your final results.

6 Tips for Recovery From Breast Augmentation

Healing takes time, and following your recovery instructions can help optimize your results while minimizing unnecessary complications.

Wear Your Surgical Bra as Directed: Your surgical bra helps support healing tissues and minimizes swelling during the early stages of recovery.
Take It Easy During the First Week: Avoid lifting, pushing, pulling, or strenuous activity until you’re cleared to resume normal exercise gradually.
Take Medications as Directed: Follow your prescribed medication schedule to help manage discomfort and support a comfortable recovery.
Attend Every Follow-Up Appointment: Routine follow-up visits allow Dr. Chopra to monitor your healing and ensure your recovery is progressing as expected.
Sleep on Your Back: Keeping pressure off your breasts while sleeping helps protect your results during the early healing period.
Be Patient with Your Results: Swelling gradually improves as your implants settle into their final position. Your results will continue to refine over the weeks and months following surgery.

How Much Does a Breast Augmentation Cost in McLean, VA?

The cost of breast augmentation in McLean and the surrounding Tysons Corner area depends on several factors, including the implant selected, the surgical technique used, anesthesia, facility fees, and whether additional procedures are performed. Because every surgical plan is personalized, your investment will be based on your individual recommendations and aesthetic goals.

In many cases, the quoted surgical fee includes the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, accredited surgical facility costs, and routine follow-up appointments. During your consultation, Dr. Chopra will review your surgical recommendations, discuss your implant options, and provide a customized estimate based on your aesthetic goals and anatomy.

Due to breast augmentation being considered an elective cosmetic procedure, it is generally not covered by health insurance. However, Chopra Cosmetic Surgery offers financing options to help make treatment more manageable, and programs such as CosmetAssure® may provide coverage for certain unforeseen surgical complications. The best way to receive an accurate quote is by scheduling a private consultation with Dr. Chopra to discuss your goals and develop a treatment plan that’s tailored specifically to you.

Why Choose Dr. Chopra?

Dr. Vinod “V” Chopra graduated with Honors in Biochemistry from the University of Virginia before earning his Doctor of Medicine from The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. He completed a General Surgery residency followed by a Plastic Surgery residency at Cooper University Hospital, then pursued additional fellowship training in reconstructive microsurgery at Weill Cornell Medical College and an Aesthetic Surgery Fellowship endorsed by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). This advanced training provides extensive experience in cosmetic breast surgery and other aesthetic procedures.

Board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), Dr. Chopra has also been recognized as a Washingtonian Top Doctor, a Virginia Living Top Doctor, and one of Washington’s Top Healthcare Providers.³

Every breast augmentation begins with a comprehensive consultation focused on your anatomy, lifestyle, and long-term goals. Dr. Chopra carefully evaluates breast dimensions, tissue characteristics, skin quality, and body proportions before recommending implant type, surgical technique, and placement. Whether you’re considering Mentor®, Natrelle® by Allergan, or Preservé™ by Motiva® implants, or you’re a candidate for advanced approaches such as Preservation Breast Augmentation or Subfascial Breast Augmentation, every recommendation is made with one goal in mind: creating balanced, elegant results that feel authentic to you.

Schedule Your Consultation

If you’re considering breast augmentation in McLean or the surrounding Tysons Corner area, we invite you to schedule a private consultation with Dr. Vinod Chopra. During your visit, you’ll discuss your goals, explore your implant options, and receive personalized recommendations based on your anatomy and desired outcome. Our team is committed to providing honest guidance and individualized care from your first consultation through your final results.

Breast Augmentation FAQ’S

Most individuals describe the discomfort after breast augmentation as mild to moderate and manageable with prescribed medication during the first several days. It’s common to experience tightness, soreness, and swelling, particularly when implants are placed beneath the chest muscle. These symptoms gradually improve as your body heals, and most people notice steady progress during the first week.
Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation carries potential risks, including bleeding, infection, changes in sensation, implant-related complications, scarring, and anesthesia risks. Following your pre- and post-operative instructions and attending your follow-up appointments can help support a smooth recovery. Dr. Chopra will review these risks with you during your consultation so you can make an informed decision.
When choosing a plastic surgeon, look for someone who is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), has extensive experience performing breast augmentation, and takes time to develop a personalized treatment plan. Reviewing before-and-after photos, learning about the surgeon’s education and training, and scheduling a consultation can also help you determine whether they’re the right fit. Dr. Chopra’s advanced fellowship training, personalized approach, and commitment to natural-looking results have made him a trusted choice for many individuals seeking Breast Augmentation in McLean.²

Sources

Chopra Cosmetic Surgery. (2026, July 2). Breast augmentation in Washington D.C. | Breast implant specialist in Fairfax, VA. https://chopracosmeticsurgery.com/service/breast-augmentation/
Chopra Cosmetic Surgery. (2026a, June 3). DC’s Premier plastic Surgeon | Vinod Chopra, MD. https://chopracosmeticsurgery.com/about/dr-vinod-chopra/
Staff, W. (2025, November 14). Vinod Chopra – Washingtonian. Washingtonian – the Website That Washington Lives By. https://washingtonian.com/best/doctors/vinod-chopra/

Patient Reviews

Dr. Chopra is an excellent surgeon with a fantastic office staff! I went to Dr. Chopra to get my 12 year old implants removed and replaced, plus a mastopexy 3 months ago. The staff in the office had great communication with appointments, the hospital requirements, and follow-ups. I am very happy with the results and couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Everything is perfect! Wish I had done this years ago.

View Results
Maggie E.
After meeting with Dr. Chopra, I was mesmerized and comforted by his amazing personality and his stellar knowledge in the cosmetic industry. He performed a breast augmentation on my sister, and did an amazing job! Working with him from pre op to post op has been a breeze. Dr. Chopra is impressive, knowledgeable, and knows how to care for people. I have never met a Doctor that is so down to earth, honest and friendly. Don’t walk, RUN to Chantilly Cosmetic Surgery. They offer state of the art laser technology to maximize results for your skin needs as well! Thank you Dr. Chopra for all of your support and big thanks to the amazing results you have been providing me and my family.

View Results
Chris M.
My experience is was incredible for my breast augmentation. From my first consultation to the procedure and post-op has been phenomenal. I was nervous at first and wasn’t sure about sizing, but Michelle and Dr. V were so helpful and patient with me. I not only love my results, but Dr. Chopra and his team are some of the greatest people and I feel they truly care about me and how I like my results. Highly recommend!

View Results
Ramona S
My experience with Dr. Chopra and staff was phenomenal! I received breast augmentation and I am so happy with my results! He was very thorough and ensured I would get the results I wanted. I felt safe and confident with Dr. Chopra and the the staff during the entire process. – Shari

View Results
SLD

Schedule a Consultation

Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at 703-962-2520