Breast Augmentation

Introduction

When considering breast augmentation, many patients picture older style implants that look false and unrealistic. However, breast augmentation techniques and implant materials have made great advances over the last few years. Now, breast augmentation is a safe procedure that results in long-lasting, realistically larger breast.

Ideal Candidates

Breast augmentation can be performed on adult women over the age 18. Younger women's breast may still change, affecting procedure results. If you are over 35, we require that you have a mammogram prior to surgery, so that you will have an original mapping of your breasts as they appeared prior to the procedure. Any abnormalities identified during your mammogram should be
addressed prior to your surgery.

Otherwise, any healthy women who desire additional breast tissue are good candidates for the procedure. However, if you are planning on having children and would like to breastfeed, please discuss this with your doctor at your consultation.

Implant Types

There are two commonly used implant material: silicone and saline. Depending on your needs and concerns, your surgeon will recommend the best option for you.

Silicone implants are pre-filled implants. Silicone molds itself to the surrounding tissues where inserted, to appear natural. Full discussion of whether silicone implants are right for you can be had with your surgeon.


Saline implants are inserted and then filled, meaning a smaller incision is necessary. Saline implants are essentially a salt-water solution and have a slightly lower incidence of side effects. Though rare, these implants are liquid-filled, so they may break or leak if damaged.

How It's Done

There are a variety of surgical techniques for breast augmentation. The incision site, type of implant and position of the implant will be discussed at your consultation. Basically an incision is made and a pocket developed in the appropriate plane. The implant is inserted, and then the incision is closed. Submuscular placement may take longer.

Breast augmentation incisions may be around the areola, under the fold of the breast or under the armpit. Your surgeon will decide which method is best or your situation. Absorbable sutures are used, so there is no need for removal. Rarely, a drain to help clear the surgery site may be necessary, but is generally removed after 48 hours.

Recovery

You will be asked to wear a supportive bra 24 hours a day until you surgery has healed, which may be up to a month. You will feel back to normal in about a week, and will be fully healed in eight weeks. Your results are apparent immediately, but some settling will occur. Final results will be seen at 3 months.

After your surgery, avoid raising your arms over your head, or any exercise that uses your chest muscles, for eight weeks.

Breast implants are not meant as a permanent solution. Every few years, you should schedule a consultation with your surgeon to ensure that the implants are still doing well.

Whatever method or type of implant you desire, our skilled surgeons can help you create the look you want in a professional, comfortable environment.