Breast enlargement, or augmentation mammoplasty, enhances the body contour of a woman who would like larger, fuller breasts. Other purposes of this procedure include:
- To correct reduction in breast volume after pregnancy.
- To balance a difference in breast size.
- As a reconstructive technique following breast surgery.
Augmentation mammoplasty is done on an outpatient basis in our surgical center, usually under general anesthesia. An implant (prosthesis) is placed through an incision, under the breast tissue or under the muscle. The incision can be made under the breast, around the nipple or under the arm. You and I will talk about the different incisions and choose one that is right for you. A breast implant is composed of an outer silicone shell filled with saline or silicone. The outer surface may be smooth or textured, and implants come in various shapes to meet the individual woman’s needs.
When the implant is placed sub muscularly under the breast, there is a lower chance of contracture (contraction of the tissue capsule surrounding the implant), and mammography is more reliable. There is also less risk of visible or palpable implant edges. However, some believe the implant has a more natural appearance when placed above the muscle, under the breast tissue. We will discuss based on your anatomy where the best position for your implant will be.
The four questions that you and I will work together to answer are
1) saline implants vs. silicone
2) SIZE (the fun part)
3) location of incision
4) over or under the muscle
The shape of your augmented breasts depends on the implant. I consider breast width, which determines the amount of “cleavage” between your breasts, and the outer curves of your breasts, which you may want to balance with your hips.vvRealistic expectations of this procedure are important. Women often think of breast size in terms of bra cup size – but most women are actually wearing the wrong bra size!
In our office we have a wide range of sizes that you can put in your bra and test out (the best way to pick size). I’ll have you feel the difference between saline and silicone implants and we will talk about the differences. Regardless, your consultation will be a relaxed, fun experience. I always think back to when I went in for my breast augmentation consultation. I remember feeling confused and overwhelmed, and had trouble picking a size. In my office, there is no rush, I will explain to you in a clear way what your surgical procedure will entail, answer any of your questions or concerns. I want you to feel excited about your surgery!
Before & After
This is a before an dafter of a woman with 325cc silicone implants.
This is a before and after of a woman with 350cc silicone implants
This is a before and after of a woman who had a breast lift and implants.
This is a before and after of a woman who had 175cc silicone implants exchanged for 400cc gel implants. She also had a capsulectomy (removal of scar tissue around the implant). Notice the much nicer shape and fullness
Post Operative Care
You must have someone drive you home and stay with you for 24 hours after surgery. You will experience some pain the first day or two that is easily controlled with pain pills. Some tightness in the breast area is also normal as your body adjusts to the implants.
You can move about freely after surgery. Wear a bra at all times (except when showering) during the first 2 weeks following surgery. Avoid heavy lifting for 2-3 weeks. Moderate exercise such as walking or stationary biking is allowed after the first week. Vigorous exercise such as jogging or aerobics may be resumed at 4 weeks. You will most likely be able to return to work within a few days, but you will need to avoid any strenuous activity for at least a couple of weeks.
During recovery, the breasts will be somewhat swollen. Within a few weeks, the actual shape and size will be evident. You may notice some asymmetry; however most breasts are naturally somewhat asymmetrical.
Possible Complications
Delayed wound healing may occur in persons with diabetes, history of radiation, autoimmune disease or smokers. Other complications include capsular contracture, bleeding, infection, or irregularity of the skin. It is important to have a thorough medical evaluation beforehand to address these potential risks. You also need to know that even a small hole in an implant can cause the saline to leak out, resulting in a “flat” implant and necessitating surgical replacement. Silicone can also leak out of the silicone gel implants though this occurrence is extremely rare.
About silicone gel implants: The FDA placed a hold on silicone implants in 1992 to further investigate their safety and effectiveness. They have since then been placed back on the market and the FDA has approved their use. There has been much discussion about the possibility of silicone and in particular silicone gel, being related to autoimmune disease. However, a large study of women with and without breast implants conducted at the Mayo Clinic showed that autoimmune disease occurred with the same frequency in both groups.
Conclusion
Augmentation mammoplasty is a safe procedure that has produced pleasing and satisfying results for many women. I personally wished I had gotten my breast augmentation sooner! My patients feel more confident, are able to wear clothes they like, can stop wearing that padded push up bra, and overall are very happy with their result!
REFER A FRIEND!
For those of you who have had Mentor Memory Gel implants by Dr. Begovic, refer a friend and get a $50 American Express Gift Card from Mentor. click on the link below.
