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Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is the surgical placement of breast implants to increase fullness and projection of the breasts or to improve symmetry of the breasts. Clinically referred to as breast augmentation, the procedure is used cosmetically to enlarge a naturally small breast, most commonly the result of heredity, restore breast volume lost following pregnancy as a result of breast-feeding or due to weight loss, and to achieve better symmetry when breasts are moderately disproportionate in size and shape. Breast augmentation does not, however, correct sagging breasts.
Adult women of any age can benefit from breast augmentation to enhance small breast size or restore fullness. It is recommended that breasts be fully developed prior to breast augmentation. Permanent breast enhancement can only be achieved surgically. There is currently no medical treatment of any kind for breast enhancement with the proven result and satisfaction of breast augmentation.
Procedure
Breast augmentation requires surgical placement of breast implants to enhance breast size. The most common incisions include an inframammary incision (near the crease under the breast), an axillary incision in the underarm area, or a periareolar incision placed at the edge of the areola. Incision patterns vary based on the type of implant, degree of enlargement desired, patient anatomy, and patient and surgeon preference.
Through the incisions a pocket is created either directly behind the breast tissue or beneath the pectoralis muscle. The implant is positioned within the pocket and incisions are closed with a layered, non-removable suture in the breast tissue and with sutures, skin adhesive or surgical tape to close the skin. Implant placement, type and size will be determined based on the patient’s breast anatomy, body type, and desired increase in size, as well as our surgical judgment.
The results of breast augmentation are immediately visible. Over time post-surgical swelling resolves and incision lines will refine. Satisfaction with your enhanced body image should continue to grow as you experience the fulfillment of your goal for fuller breasts.
Breast implants have not been shown to impair breast health. Careful review of scientific research by independent groups has found no proven link between breast implants and autoimmune or other systemic diseases in women. Implants can, however, create subtle or more noticeable changes in the look and feel of the breasts. Capsular contracture, a condition that causes the natural forming scar tissue around the breast implant to contract, occurs in a variable percentage of patients and can make the breasts feel firmer than normal.
You should be aware that breast implants are not guaranteed to last a lifetime, and future surgery may be required to replace one or both implants. Pregnancy, weight loss and menopause may influence the appearance of augmented breasts over the course of a woman’s lifetime. Breast augmentation requires maintenance over time, including regular examinations for breast health and to evaluate the condition of one’s implants.
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