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Endoscopic Breast Augmentation

Palo Alto & San Jose

Innovation Meets Ease in Breast Enhancement

We understand that the decision to undergo breast augmentation is a deeply personal journey. Endoscopic Breast Augmentation is unique in that it offers natural-looking results without the visible scarring one may experience with traditional methods. This procedure also provides a significantly easier recovery with much less downtime.

Less Invasive Breast Surgery with Endoscopic Breast Augmentation at Illuminate Plastic Surgery

At Illuminate Plastic Surgery, we combine surgical innovation with compassionate care, guiding each patient through an understanding and supportive experience. Dr. Michael Berkowitz developed this unique surgical procedure, using an endoscope to perform the surgery through a transaxillary incision in the underarm. This approach minimizes trauma to breast tissue, reduces the risk of complications such as capsular contracture, and allows for a faster recovery with no scars on the breasts themselves.

Both Dr. Berkowitz and Dr. Boudreault bring extensive experience in performing breast augmentation surgery, ensuring that each patient receives excellent results tailored to their individual goals.

Palo Alto & San Jose breast asymmetry treatment model with blonde hair

What is Endoscopic Breast Augmentation?

Endoscopic Breast Augmentation is a modern, minimally invasive approach to breast enlargement using a tiny camera (endoscope) inserted through a small incision in the underarm. The camera provides direct visualization during implant placement, allowing the surgeon to form the implant pocket with extreme precision behind the breast tissue or under the chest wall.

This procedure can use either saline implants, which are ideal for this approach, or smaller silicone implants, including gummy bear options. The implants are placed without touching the skin, minimizing the risk of infection, scar tissue, or capsular contracture. This technique also reduces the likelihood of any silent ruptures or shifting. The result is a refined breast shape with a smooth contour and natural feel.

Benefits of Endoscopic Breast Augmentation

This technique allows women to enjoy the benefits of traditional breast augmentation surgery with a more discreet incision and less downtime. Benefits of endoscopic breast augmentation include:

  • No scars on the breasts or breast crease
  • Smaller incisions and less disruption to breast tissues
  • Less discomfort during recovery
  • Faster healing and return to light exercise or normal activities
  • Minimal bleeding and swelling during recovery
  • Reduced risk of complications like capsular contracture
  • Ideal for modest breast size goals
  • Preservation of nipple sensationAbility to use saline or small silicone gel implants

Endoscopic Breast Augmentation Candidates

Endoscopic Breast Augmentation is best suited for women who want subtle breast enhancement and prefer to avoid visible scarring on the breasts. Many of our patients have previously delayed surgery because they didn't want scars on their chest, and this approach solves that concern beautifully. You may be a candidate if:

  • You are seeking discreet, natural-looking breast augmentation
  • You are concerned about scarring on the breast surface
  • You are in overall good health and a responsible adult
  • You have not had previous breast surgery or need only a minor revision
  • You have sufficient underarm anatomy for the transaxillary incision
  • You want a modest increase in breast volume
  • You are not currently pregnant or breastfeeding
  • You want to preserve nipple sensation and breastfeeding ability

This technique may not be ideal for women who require a breast lift, need revision surgery, or are seeking a larger implant size than the axillary approach allows. During your initial consultation, we'll determine the best approach to align with your goals.

Consultation and Preparation

Your journey begins with a thorough initial consultation at our office in Palo Alto. We'll review your medical history, discuss your goals, and evaluate your anatomy. Before your surgery, we will:

  • Take photographs and precise measurements of the two breasts
  • Listen to your concerns and goals, and discuss implant type (saline vs. silicone), implant size, and implant placement
  • Advise about risks such as capsular contracture, saline implant ruptures, and breast capsule formation
  • Help you select a surgical support bra for recovery
  • Review options such as fat grafting or combination procedures
  • Answer questions about future revision surgery, nipple sensation, or impact on breastfeeding

You'll receive a customized surgical plan tailored to your vision, lifestyle, and optimal recovery.

The Endoscopic Breast Augmentation Procedure

Performed under general anesthesia, this surgical procedure typically takes between 60 and 90 minutes. A small incision (less than one inch) is made in the natural crease of the armpit area. Using a high-resolution endoscope, our board-certified plastic surgeon will guide the formation of the implant pocket, ensuring symmetrical and accurate placement behind the breast tissue or chest wall. The selected breast implants, either saline or silicone gel, are then inserted. Because the endoscope enhances visibility, you can expect less bleeding, trauma, and overall risk than traditional breast augmentation procedures.

Palo Alto & San Jose breast asymmetry treatment model with brown hair

Endoscopic Breast Augmentation Recovery

Most patients return to light activities and desk work within three to five days. Complete healing and return to strenuous exercise or heavy lifting typically occur within four to six weeks. Post surgery: 

  • Wear a surgical support bra to help shape the breasts
  • Avoid raising your arms above your shoulders for the first week
  • Minor swelling and tightness in the chest are normal
  • Most patients do not need drains or hospital stays
  • Follow-up visits are built into your care for high-touch healing

Our team will guide you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth, safe, and supported healing process.

Endoscopic Breast Augmentation Results

Patients immediately notice a more youthful contour and improved breast shape, although swelling may temporarily obscure the final results. Your implants will settle over time, with the final positioning typically reached within two to three months. Your results will:

  • Offer a natural look and feel
  • Complement your unique anatomy
  • Typically last 10 to 20 years, depending on implant type and lifestyle
  • Be maintainable with annual check-ins or revision surgery as needed

Implants are long-lasting but not considered lifetime devices. We encourage patients to reach out to us at any time with questions or concerns, even after the initial recovery process is complete.

How Much Does Endoscopic Breast Augmentation Cost?

The cost of endoscopic breast augmentation varies based on the implant type, surgical complexity, and any combination of procedures (like fat grafting or breast lift) that may be included. Your total fee may include:

  • Surgeon's fees
  • Facility and anesthesiologist fees
  • General anesthesia
  • Cost of breast implants
  • Post-op care and follow-up visits

We offer support at every step of your journey. This includes convenient financing options and transparent pricing.

Why Choose Illuminate?

From your initial consultation through all of your follow-up appointments, you'll be supported by one of the most experienced and results-focused plastic surgery teams in the San Francisco Bay Area. At Illuminate Plastic Surgery, we care deeply about your unique aesthetic goals and helping you feel more confident every day. We take the time to listen to your concerns and pride ourselves on patient satisfaction. We combine advanced surgical techniques with a truly personalized experience. Whether it's plastic surgery, skin care, or wellness services, we can design a comprehensive program to help you look and feel your best.

Schedule Your Endoscopic Breast Augmentation Consultation in San Jose or Palo Alto

Ready to explore a better way to enhance your curves and feel more confident? We're here to guide you with kindness, clarity, and expert care. Call us at (408) 369-9300 or book your consultation online to get started.

Endoscopic Breast AugmentationFrequently Asked Questions

Discomfort is typically mild and easily managed with oral medications.

Yes, our surgeons, Dr. Berkowitz and Dr. Boudreault are have decades of experience and put safety first with every procedure.

One of the major benefits of endoscopic breast augmentation is that it is less invasive than traditional methods. As a result, recovery is much easier. Most patients resume daily tasks within a few days and return to full activity within a few weeks.

Implants typically last 10 to 20 years, though individual results may vary.

Yes. The procedure avoids the breast ducts, preserving your ability to breastfeed in most cases.

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“I had my Brazilian Butt Lift in 2017 with Dr. Boudreault and I couldn’t be any happier with my results. My butt and hips look SO natural – my only regret was not doing it sooner!”

“I fully trust Dr. B and will go to him for all my procedures. He really cares about his clients and their results.”

“The day after my surgery when the garment came off, I almost cried. Dr. B exceeded my expectations and gave me an even BETTER body than I had imagined.”

At Illuminate we’re with you during every step of your journey toward greater self-confidence. Schedule a consultation with us today and let Illuminate’s expert team listen to your concerns and guide you through treatments and procedures to help you reach your individual goals. We look forward to seeing you and celebrating your renewed appearance and realized potential.

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