Breast augmentation is most often performed to enlarge the breasts and enhance the body contour of a woman who is dissatisfied with her small breast size.
Other reasons to perform breast augmentation include the following:
- To correct a reduction in breast volume after pregnancy
- To balance a difference in breast size
- As a reconstructive technique following breast surgery
Breast augmentation before and after photos
How is Breast Augmentation Performed?
Breast augmentation is done on an outpatient basis in our surgical center, usually under general anesthesia. An implant 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.
Breast implants are composed of an outer silicone shell filled with saline or silicone gel. 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 may be 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 when saline implants are placed. However, in many instances the breast implant has a more natural appearance when placed above the muscle, under the breast tissue. Dr. Will can help you decide which placement and type of implant will work best.
Determining Breast Implant Size
The shape of your augmented breasts depends on your shape and chest wall anatomy. The most common breast implants used in our practice are round smooth silicone gel-filled implants. The choice ultimately depends on the look you want to achieve.
Anatomical, or “tear drop” breast implants are rarely used due to the risk of these implants rotating within the breast pocket and becoming asymmetric. Round implants create a smooth round curve in the upper part of the breast with favorable and predictable results. Another factor to consider prior to surgery is breast width, which determines the amount of “cleavage” between your breasts and the outer curves, which you may want to balance with your hips. It’s important to have realistic expectations. Women often think of breast size in terms of bra cup size. If you are currently a size “A” and wish to be a size “C”, there must be enough existing breast tissue, or complications can occur.
Breast Augmentation 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 3-4 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 Breast Augmentation 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 a saline implant can cause the contents to leak out, resulting in a "flat” implant and necessitating surgical replacement. This is completely avoidable, however, by taking proper precautions.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation is a safe procedure that has produced pleasing and satisfying results for many women. Those who are psychologically stable and have realistic expectations benefit the most. A preliminary consultation with Dr. Will can help you determine whether breast augmentation is right for you.
