Breast augmentation, or augmentation mammoplasty, enhances the size and shape of a woman's breasts through the placement of implants. Many women experience dissatisfaction with their breast size or shape, with studies showing that around 70% feel this way at some point in their lives. Breast augmentation addresses these concerns by increasing size, correcting asymmetry, and restoring volume lost due to pregnancy, weight loss, or aging.
You may be a good candidate for breast augmentation if you are in good overall health, have realistic expectations about the outcomes, feel your breasts are too small or uneven, have lost breast volume due to weight loss, pregnancy, or aging, and are not currently pregnant or breastfeeding. A thorough consultation with one of our surgeons will help determine if this procedure is right for you.
The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes about 1 to 2 hours. The surgeon makes an incision in one of three locations: around the nipple (periareolar), under the breast (inframammary), or in the armpit (transaxillary). The implants are then inserted either under the chest muscle (submuscular) or over the chest muscle (subglandular). The incisions are closed with sutures, and you will be monitored in a recovery area before going home.
Breast augmentation is typically performed under general anesthesia, ensuring that you are completely comfortable and pain-free during the surgery. Our board-certified anesthesiologists administer the anesthesia and monitor you closely throughout the procedure to ensure your safety.
Patient safety is our top priority. Our highly experienced anesthesiologists use state-of-the-art monitoring equipment to continuously track your vital signs throughout the procedure. We conduct a thorough pre-operative assessment to tailor the anesthesia plan to your specific needs and medical history. Our comprehensive approach ensures that you are safe and comfortable from start to finish.
Yes, after the procedure, you will be moved to a recovery area where our medical team will monitor you as you wake up from the anesthesia. We provide personalized post-operative care instructions and are available to address any concerns you may have during your recovery. Our goal is to ensure a smooth and comfortable transition to your recovery at home.
Recovery from breast augmentation generally takes a few weeks. Initially, you will experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication. You should avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for at least 4 to 6 weeks. Most patients can return to work and light activities within a week. Your surgeon will provide detailed post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
Breast implants are not considered lifetime devices. While they can last many years, it is common for women to need implant replacement or revision surgery at some point. On average, implants may need to be replaced every 10 to 20 years. Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon are essential to monitor the condition of your implants.
Many women can successfully breastfeed after breast augmentation, especially if the incisions are made under the breast or through the armpit, avoiding the milk ducts. However, there is a small risk that breast surgery could affect milk production. Discuss your breastfeeding goals with your surgeon during the consultation to choose the most appropriate surgical technique.
Breast implants can make mammograms more challenging, but specialized techniques can be used to obtain accurate images. It’s important to inform your radiologist about your implants before the procedure. Additional views or imaging methods, such as MRI or ultrasound, may be recommended to ensure thorough breast cancer screening.
Choosing the right implant size and shape is a personal decision based on your aesthetic goals, body type, and lifestyle. During your consultation, your surgeon will discuss your desired outcome, measure your chest dimensions, and use imaging tools or sizers to help you visualize different options. Your surgeon’s expertise will guide you in selecting the most appropriate implant size and shape for natural-looking results.
Yes, breast implants can rupture, although it is relatively uncommon. Saline implant ruptures are immediately noticeable as the saline solution is absorbed by the body, causing the breast to deflate. Silicone implant ruptures, known as silent ruptures, may not be immediately apparent, as the silicone gel remains within the implant shell or surrounding tissue. Regular MRI or ultrasound screenings are recommended to detect silent ruptures.
All surgical procedures leave some scarring, but the location and extent of scars can vary. Breast augmentation scars are typically minimal and well-hidden. Common incision sites include the inframammary fold (under the breast), periareolar (around the nipple), or transaxillary (in the armpit). Your surgeon will use advanced techniques to minimize scarring and provide post-operative care instructions to help scars heal and fade over time.
Yes, breast augmentation can be combined with other procedures, such as a breast lift (mastopexy), tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), or liposuction. Combining procedures can enhance overall body contour and achieve more comprehensive results with a single recovery period. Discuss your goals with your surgeon to determine the best combination of procedures for your needs.
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