METROPOLMED Health Group
Breast Augmentation
Breast Augmentation
Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a popular surgical procedure aimed at enhancing the size and shape of a person’s breasts. It involves the use of breast implants, typically made of silicone gel or saline, which are skillfully inserted through discreet incisions into the breast tissue or placed behind the chest muscle. Breast augmentation is sought after by individuals for various reasons, including a desire for fuller breasts, improved symmetry, or restoration of breast volume after pregnancy or weight loss. Whether for cosmetic purposes or breast reconstruction following mastectomy, this procedure can provide a natural-looking enhancement, but it is essential for prospective patients to carefully consider the potential risks and benefits and consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to achieve their desired results safely and effectively.
What Is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to increase the size and enhance the shape of a person’s breasts. It is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries worldwide and is commonly sought after by individuals who desire fuller or more proportionate breasts.
The procedure involves the use of breast implants, which are typically made of silicone gel or saline (saltwater). These implants are inserted into the breast tissue or placed behind the chest muscle to create a natural-looking, enhanced breast appearance. The surgeon makes incisions in inconspicuous areas, such as around the areola (the dark skin around the nipple), under the breast crease, or in the armpit, to access the breast tissue and create a pocket for the implant.
Age requirement: There is no specific age requirement for breast augmentation. However, most plastic surgeons prefer to perform the procedure on individuals who have reached full physical and emotional maturity. This typically occurs in the late teens or early twenties.
Personal motivations: It is essential to have clear and realistic motivations for seeking breast augmentation. Some common reasons include a desire for larger breasts, improvement in breast shape or symmetry, restoration of breast volume after pregnancy or weight loss, or reconstruction following breast surgery.
Consultation with a plastic surgeon: It is crucial to consult with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon to discuss your goals, expectations and medical history. The surgeon will evaluate your breast anatomy, overall health and determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
Implant options: Breast implants are available in various sizes, shapes, and materials. The choice of implant will depend on factors such as your desired outcome, existing breast tissue, body proportions, and the surgeon’s recommendation. During the consultation, you can discuss the available options and make an informed decision.
Risks and complications: Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation carries potential risks and complications. These can include infection, bleeding, scarring, implant rupture, changes in nipple or breast sensation, and the need for additional surgeries in the future. Your plastic surgeon will discuss these risks with you during the consultation.
Recovery and downtime: The recovery period after breast augmentation can vary, but most individuals can expect to take about a week off from work or regular activities. You may experience temporary discomfort, swelling, bruising and changes in breast sensitivity. Following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions is crucial for optimal healing and results.
It is important to have realistic expectations, thoroughly research the procedure, and choose a skilled and board-certified plastic surgeon who can guide you through the process. They will help determine if breast augmentation is the right option for you and provide personalized advice based on your individual circumstances.
Quick Facts
Avarage Length of Stay: 1-2 Hour
Anesthesia: Local Anesthesia – General Anesthesia
Techniques: Closed
Net Result: 6 Months
Breast Augmentation Types
Breast augmentation is a popular surgical procedure aimed at increasing the size and enhancing the shape of a person’s breasts. There are different types of breast implants and surgical techniques used for breast augmentation. Here are the primary breast augmentation types:
Silicone Gel Implants: These implants consist of a silicone outer shell filled with a cohesive silicone gel. Silicone implants are known for their natural look and feel.
Saline Implants: Saline implants are made of a silicone outer shell filled with sterile saline (saltwater) solution. They can be filled with saline during surgery, allowing for smaller incisions.
Round Implants: These implants are symmetrical and equally full on all sides. They can provide increased upper pole fullness, giving a more noticeable lift to the breasts.
Teardrop (Anatomical) Implants: Teardrop implants have a sloped contour, mimicking the natural shape of the breast with more fullness in the lower portion. They are designed to create a more natural look.
Textured Implants: Textured implants have a rough surface designed to reduce the risk of implant rotation and help maintain their position within the breast.
Smooth Implants: Smooth implants have a smooth surface and may have a slightly softer feel compared to textured implants. They can move more freely within the breast pocket.
Submuscular Placement: In this technique, the breast implants are placed partially or completely under the chest muscle (pectoralis major). This method can provide more natural results and reduce the risk of certain complications.
Subglandular Placement: The breast implants are positioned directly behind the breast tissue, but above the chest muscle. This method may result in a quicker recovery but might be more noticeable, especially in individuals with little natural breast tissue.
Dual-Plane Placement: This approach combines aspects of both submuscular and subglandular placement. The upper part of the implant is positioned beneath the muscle, while the lower part is behind the breast tissue.
It’s essential to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and preferences and determine the most suitable breast implant type and surgical technique for your unique anatomy and desired outcome. The surgeon will consider factors such as breast size, shape, and existing tissue to achieve the best possible results.
Breast Augmentation Procedure Step-By-Step
Here is a step-by-step breakdown of the breast augmentation procedure:
- Anesthesia: The procedure begins with the administration of anesthesia. You and your surgeon will have discussed the anesthesia options during the preoperative consultation. It can be general anesthesia (where you are asleep) or local anesthesia with sedation (where you are awake but relaxed).
- Incision placement: Once you are under anesthesia, the surgeon will make incisions based on the predetermined incision plan. The incisions can be made in various locations, such as in the crease under the breast (inframammary incision), around the areola (periareolar incision), or in the armpit (transaxillary incision). The choice of incision location depends on factors such as implant type, size and surgeon preference.
- Creation of a pocket: After making the incisions, the surgeon will create a pocket to accommodate the breast implant. The pocket can be made either directly behind the breast tissue (subglandular placement) or beneath the chest muscle (submuscular placement). The placement option will be determined based on factors like your anatomy, implant type and surgeon’s recommendation.
- Insertion of the implant: The surgeon will carefully insert the breast implant into the pocket created. The implant can be placed above or beneath the pectoral muscle, depending on the chosen placement technique. The surgeon will ensure proper positioning and symmetry.
- Adjustment and evaluation: Once the implants are in place, the surgeon will evaluate their position, size and symmetry. They may make any necessary adjustments to achieve the desired result. The surgeon will also check for any signs of implant rupture or complications.
- Closure of incisions: After the implants are properly positioned, the surgeon will close the incisions using sutures, surgical glue, or surgical tape. The incision closure technique will depend on various factors, including the incision location and surgeon preference.
- Dressings and bandages: The surgeon will apply dressings and bandages to protect the incision sites and provide support to the breasts. Depending on the surgeon’s preference, a surgical bra or compression garment may also be placed to aid in the healing process.
- Recovery and postoperative care: Following the procedure, you will be moved to a recovery area where you will be monitored as you wake up from anesthesia. You may experience some discomfort, swelling and bruising in the days and weeks following the surgery. Pain medication and instructions for postoperative care will be provided to help manage these symptoms. It is important to follow your surgeon’s postoperative instructions closely for optimal healing and results.
- Follow-up appointments: You will have scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your healing progress, remove any sutures, and address any concerns or questions you may have. These appointments are crucial for ensuring proper recovery and achieving the best possible outcome.
Please note that this step-by-step breakdown provides a general overview of the breast augmentation procedure. The specific details of your surgery may vary based on your individual circumstances and the surgical technique used by your surgeon. It is important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can provide personalized guidance and information based on your unique case.
What Happens After Breast Augmentation?
After breast augmentation surgery, the recovery process is crucial for achieving the best results and ensuring a smooth healing process. The specific post-operative instructions will vary depending on the surgical technique used, the type of implants, and individual factors, but here are some general aspects of what to expect after breast augmentation:
- Recovery Room: After the surgery is completed, you will be taken to a recovery room where medical staff will monitor your vital signs and ensure that you are waking up from anesthesia safely.
- Dressings and Bandages: The surgical incisions and implant pockets will be covered with dressings or bandages. Some surgeons may also place a supportive surgical bra or compression garment to aid in healing and support the breasts.
- Pain Management: It’s normal to experience some pain, discomfort, or soreness after breast augmentation surgery. Your surgeon will provide pain medication or recommend over-the-counter pain relief to keep you comfortable during the initial recovery period.
- Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising around the breasts are common after breast augmentation and can take several weeks to subside. Cold compresses and elevating the upper body can help reduce swelling and ease discomfort.
- Activity Restrictions: You will be advised to limit physical activities and avoid lifting heavy objects, strenuous exercises, or activities that strain the chest area for a specific period. Following these restrictions is crucial to support proper healing and prevent complications.
- Drainage Tubes (if applicable): Some surgeons use drainage tubes to remove excess fluid from the surgical site. If used, these tubes are usually removed during a follow-up appointment once the drainage decreases.
- Follow-up Appointments: You will have scheduled follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon to monitor your healing progress. During these visits, the surgeon will assess the surgical site, remove sutures if necessary, and address any concerns you may have.
- Scar Care: Breast augmentation incisions will leave scars, but their appearance can improve over time. Your surgeon may recommend scar care treatments or ointments to help minimize their visibility.
- Supportive Bra: You will likely be advised to wear a supportive bra without underwire for a specific period to aid in healing and protect the surgical area.
- Final Results: The breasts will evolve and settle over time. The final results of breast augmentation may not be immediately evident due to swelling and healing. It can take several weeks to months for the implants to settle into their final position and for swelling to subside.
It’s essential to follow your plastic surgeon’s post-operative instructions diligently to ensure a smooth recovery and achieve the best possible outcome. If you have any concerns or questions during the recovery process, don’t hesitate to contact your surgeon for guidance and reassurance. Remember that every individual’s recovery experience will be unique, and it’s crucial to be patient and give your body the time it needs to heal properly.
Breast Augmentation Before And After
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that can have transformative effects on a person’s breasts. The specific results of breast augmentation can vary depending on individual factors such as body type, existing breast tissue, implant size and type, and the surgical technique used. Here are some general considerations regarding breast augmentation before and after:
Before breast augmentation:
- Consultation: Before the procedure, you will have a consultation with a plastic surgeon to discuss your goals, expectations, and medical history. The surgeon will assess your breast anatomy, discuss the available options, and recommend the most suitable approach for you.
- Preoperative planning: During the consultation, you will work with your surgeon to choose the desired size and shape of the breasts. You may also have the opportunity to see before-and-after photos of previous patients to get an idea of potential outcomes. Your surgeon will guide you through the decision-making process and provide recommendations based on your individual body proportions and goals.
After breast augmentation:
- Immediate post-operative period: After the surgery, you will experience some swelling, bruising and discomfort in the breast area. Your surgeon will provide instructions on how to care for your incisions, manage any discomfort and support your healing process.
- Recovery and healing: The initial recovery period typically involves taking a week off from work or regular activities to allow for proper healing. You will need to avoid strenuous physical activities for a few weeks, as directed by your surgeon. Over time, the swelling will gradually subside and you will start to see the final results take shape.
- Long-term results: It’s important to note that the final results of breast augmentation may not be immediately apparent. It can take several weeks or even months for the breasts to settle into their new shape and for the incision lines to fade. The scars will continue to improve over time but may not completely disappear.
It’s important to have realistic expectations about the outcome of breast augmentation. While the pro