Breast Augmentation
(Breast Implants)
Breast augmentation is the enlargement of the breast by placing a prosthesis directly behind the breast tissue or below the pectoral muscle of the chest. Current breast implants consist of a silicone bag containing saline or cohesive silicone gel. Usually, the breast prosthesis is inserted through an incision in the skin fold below the breast.
It is important to note that this procedure is guided by each patient’s individual anatomy. Modest asymmetry may be improved with breast augmentation alone, but the procedure may be combined with mastopexy (breast lift) to address more significant breast shape concerns, such as ptosis (droopiness), areolar size/shape issues, or considerable asymmetry. Your surgeon would discuss these details and come up with a specific surgical plan for you.
Though rare, post-operative complications from any procedure are possible. These can include bleeding (hematoma), infection, seroma, asymmetry, contour abnormalities, capsular contracture, rippling of implants, rupture of implants, and unsatisfactory scarring. Altered sensations (numbness, tingling, and/or hypersensitivity) are to be expected while you are healing, and can persist for several weeks or months. Our health care team follows you closely to recognize and treat any complications, should they arise.
Consultation for this procedure includes a full exam of the proposed surgical area(s), review of patient goals, education on the procedure(s), and explanation of potential risks, complications, and benefits. VECTRA® 3D imaging would also be performed.
Additional details:
Anesthesia: General Anesthetic
Length: Approximately one hour
Preparation:
Prior to booking, you should ensure you have a responsible adult available to care for and assist you, including making meals, caring for your animals/children, cleaning, etc. You cannot be alone for the first 24 hours after surgery and will require some amount of help for the first week. We also recommend having someone available to drive you to your post-op appointment(s). You must be prepared to pay a 15% deposit to secure your surgical date, and the remaining balance four weeks prior to your procedure.
Recovery:
You can expect mild to moderate bruising and swelling post-operatively, peaking at around 72 hours and slowly resolving over the first couple of weeks. Slight breast asymmetry is quite commonly seen in the early stages of healing. Many patients experience a feeling of heaviness or tightness on their chest. Dressings remain in place for 48 hours.
You will be seen in office for postoperative care with our nurses, typically about 1-2 weeks after surgery, and subsequently as needed. Modified positioning, restriction of arm movement, and incision care will be reviewed with your nurse.
You must refrain from strenuous physical activity, heavy lifting (including lifting and carrying your children), and excessive movement/engagement of the pectoral muscles for about 4-6 weeks after surgery.
As with any surgery, results cannot be guaranteed. The goal of cosmetic plastic surgery is improvement, and perfection is not attainable. Final results depend on many factors and healing can vary from patient to patient. It is important to remember to have patience during convalescence to allow your body time to recuperate and settle.
Long-Term Follow-Up:
Patients will be seen in the office by the surgeon approximately three months after surgery for assessment and postoperative photographs.
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