Breast Augmentation

Breast Augmentation is a surgical procedure to enhance the size and shape of a woman’s breast for a number of reasons:

• To enhance the body contour of a woman who feels her breast size is too small.
• To correct a reduction in breast volume after pregnancy.
• To balance a difference in breast size.
• As a reconstructive technique following breast surgery.

By inserting an implant behind each breast, surgeons are able to increase a woman’s bustline by one or more bra cup sizes. The best candidates for breast augmentation are women who are looking for improvement, not perfection, in the way they look. If you’re physically healthy and realistic in your expectations, you may be a good candidate.
A breast implant is a silicone shell filled with either silicone gel or a salt-water solution known as saline. In your initial consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your health and explain which surgical techniques are most appropriate for you, based on the condition of your breasts and skin tone. If your breasts are sagging, your doctor may also recommend a breast lift.

Be sure to discuss your expectations frankly with your surgeon. He should be equally frank with you, describing your alternatives and the risks and limitations of each of your concerns. And be sure to tell your surgeon if you smoke, and if you’re taking any medications, vitamins, or other drugs.

The method of inserting and positioning your implant will depend on your anatomy and your surgeon’s recommendation. The incision can be made either in the crease where the breast meets the chest, around the areola (the dark skin surrounding the nipple), or in the armpit. Every effort will be made to assure that the incision is placed so resulting scars will be as inconspicuous as possible. Working through the incision, the surgeon will lift your breast tissue and skin to create a pocket, either directly behind the breast tissue or underneath your chest wall muscle (the pectoral muscle). The implants are then centered beneath your nipples.

The surgery is an outpatient procedure and usually takes one to two hours to complete. A gauze bandage may be applied over your breasts to help with healing. You should be able to return to work within a few days, depending on the level of activity required for your job. Follow your surgeon’s advice on when to begin exercises and normal activities.

For many women, the result of breast augmentation can be exhilarating, as they learn to appreciate their fuller appearance.