Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation, or “augmentation mammaplasty,” is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures performed today. This surgery is designed to increase the size and enhance the shape of the breasts using either saline or silicone implants, but we also offer the “gummy bear” and IDEAL implants as well as fat transfer for increased breast size. Breast implants can be used to improve asymmetrical breasts, to reconstruct one or both breasts after mastectomy (see breast reconstruction), or to correct congenital breast deformities or misshapen breasts resulting from injury. Breast augmentation surgery can also restore breast volume lost after pregnancy or weight loss.
The breast augmentation procedure is not designed to lift sagging breasts. However, breast lift surgery can be performed in conjunction with the breast augmentation procedure for women who desire to lift and increase the size and projection of their breasts.
Candidates
- Ideal candidates for breast augmentation are in good physical and mental health, are dissatisfied with the size or shape of their breasts, and have realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure.
- Women considering breast augmentation should want to undergo the procedure for their own desires rather than to fit someone else’s ideal image
- It’s very important to communicate openly with your plastic surgeon and ask him questions about breast augmentation. It’s natural to feel some anxiety, whether it’s excitement for your anticipated new look or a bit of preoperative stress. Discuss these feelings with your plastic surgeon and ask any questions that you may have about the procedure and recovery.
Procedural Steps
- Anesthesia will be administered to make you comfortable and numb to pain.
- Incision Placement Options: There are a number of incision placement options available to you. You and your plastic surgeon will discuss these options and make a decision for the incision location prior to the procedure
- The implants will then be inserted through the incisions. Again, you will have made your choice between saline or silicone implants, as well as decided on the size, shape, and texture of your implants, prior to the procedure.
- Implant type ( saline, silicone, or other based on reconstructive needs)
- Implant placement (subglandular, submuscular)
- The incisions will then be sutured closed and bandaged.
Recovery
- Follow all physician’s instructions for a successful surgery and recovery.
- Bruising and swelling may be apparent after the procedure for a couple of weeks.
- Most patients return to work within ten days of their breast augmentation procedure, but strenuous activity should be avoided for at least six weeks.
- A compression garment should be worn to provide support during the entire recovery period
- If you experience any shortness of breath or chest pain during your recovery, you should seek medical attention immediately.
- It is essential that the surgical incisions are not subjected to excessive force, swelling, abrasion, or motion during the time of healing.
Important Facts About the Safety and Risks of Breast Augmentation. Potential complications include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Changes in nipple sensation
- Fluid accumulation
- Possibility of the need for revisional surgery
Results
- Results will be long lasting but implants will likely need to be replaced over time.
- The increased projection of the breasts will be visible immediately, but their new shape will become more apparent as bruising and swelling resolve and your recovery progresses.
- More true results will be visible in the coming months as you continue to recover and your breasts settle into their new shape and size.
- Most women are very happy with the results of their procedure and find new confidence in their bodies after breast augmentation.
