Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure to enhance the size and shape of a woman’s breasts. In 2006 breast enhancement surgery was the most common aesthetic surgical procedure performed in United States. Over the years, several different types and styles of implants have been used. Today most physicians performing breast augmentation are using saline-filled implants as well as the new FDA approved memory gel Silicone Implants.
There are currently several different methods for inserting and positioning the implants. The incisions can be made either in the crease where the breast meets the chest, beneath the areola, in the armpit or in the belly button. The method you choose will depend on where you want the incision, as well as which procedure your surgeon feels will give you the best result.
The implants may be placed above or below the chest muscles. Most physicians are currently placing the implants under the muscle (sub-pectoral). The muscle provides an extra layer of padding to give a more natural appearance. In addition, placing the implants under the muscle may decrease the chance of scar tissue formation around the implant (capsular contracture) and also allows for greater ease in reading mammograms.
With all said, here are a few commonly asked questions about breast augmentation surgery:
Is breast augmentation for me? During a consultation with a plastics surgeon you have the chance to discuss the goals and expectations of the surgery. The surgeon will asses your breast and body contour and will discuss the outcome of your procedure.
Is the implant safe? Yes. At this time, there is no evidence that implants would increase the risk of any disease or pre-expose one to any medical condition. A mammogram can be safely performed in women with breast implants. Both saline and silicone implants have been found to be very safe. Silicone breast implants have a more natural look and feel and there is less rippling of silicone implants when compared to saline implants.
What is the breast augmentation surgery like? The procedure is performed at an outpatient surgical facility. The procedure typically takes just over an hour to perform. Most patients recover within one to two hours after surgery and are discharged home.
What is the recovery from breast augmentation surgery like? Most women are ambulatory few hours after surgery. It is suggested to rest a few days following the procedure. A post surgical sports bra is worn for several weeks. There is some discomfort and swelling after the surgery. Depending on the type of job and level of activity at work, one can go back to work as early as three days following surgery.
Can I breast feed after breast augmentation surgery? Most likely, yes. By placing the implants under the muscle (sub-pectoral), the glandular breast tissue remains intact and the implant will have a more natural look and feel. The vast majority of women can breast feed following a sub-pectoral breast augmentation surgery.
The decision on which method to choose and who will perform your surgery should be carefully considered. These choices can be difficult, but being well informed will help you make the appropriate ones. If possible, try to get a referral from a friend who has had a good experience and always check to see that your physician is a true plastic surgeon. You want your surgeon to be board eligible or certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. You should also ask your plastic surgeon to show you before and after pictures of his/her prior patients or even ask to talk to a few prior patients.
The result of breast augmentation can be satisfying as women learn to appreciate their fuller appearance. For the women whose body has undergone changes after childbirth, it could be a life-changing experience. In recent years with the baby boomer population explosion, many women feel they need a breast enhancement procedure such as a breast augmentation or a breast lift. Other professional women feel that a cosmetic breast procedure will increase their chance of staying competitive with the younger work force.
For any further questions, please call 1-800-788-1416.