Breast Augmentation:

Why is Breast Augmentation performed?

Breast Augmentation is performed to counter the effects of weight loss, pregnancy, breast-feeding and aging changes.

What is a Breast Implant?

A breast implant is a soft shell or a rubber sac that is filled with silicone gel or saline (salt-water). The feel of the implant is very natural and close to the feel of the normal breast tissue. They are available in several different sizes to accommodate different patient's needs and surgeon's preference. The surface texture of the implant can be smooth or contoured.

What are the different approaches that are used for Breast Augmentation?

There are different approaches used for Breast Augmentation surgery: 1) Infra-mammary Breast Augmentation - This is the most commonly used approach for Breast Augmentation operation. In this approach an incision is made in the crease just below the breast where the breast tissue meets the chest wall. 2) Peri-areolar Breast Augmentation - In this approach a semi-circular incision is made around the lower part of the areola (areola is the dark area of skin surrounding the nipple). 3) Trans-axillary or Axillary Breast Augmentation - In this approach an incision is made in the armpit to insert the breast implant. 4) Trans-umblical or Umblical Breast Augmentation - In this approach, a breast implant is inserted through the umbilicus or belly button with the help of an endoscope.

Where is the breast implant placed in Breast Augmentation?

Breast implant can either be placed under the breast tissue (sub-glandular) or under the chest muscle (sub-muscular) in Breast Augmentation procedure.

Who is an ideal candidate for Breast Augmentation operation?

If you are a healthy woman above 18 years of age who is not pregnant or breast feeding and wants to improve her appearance, then you are an ideal candidate for Breast Augmentation surgery.

What does the procedure of Breast Augmentation involve?

Your surgeon makes an incision (as described above), creates a pocket either under the breast tissue or under the muscle, inserts the implant, pushes it to the center so that it is under the nipple and sutures the incision. Some surgeons prefer to place the implant under the chest muscle. Breast Augmentation surgery takes about 2 - 3 hours. Most commonly you can go home the same day or the following day. The sutures are covered with a gauze dressing to promote speedy healing.

How do I prepare for Breast Augmentation surgery?

Breast Augmentation is performed under general anesthesia. You may or may not be required to get hospitalized the night before. However, you will be instructed to refrain from eating or drinking at least 10 hours before the Breast Augmentation surgery. Make sure to inform your surgeon as well as your anesthetist about all the prescription and non-prescription medications (including vitamin, mineral and herbal supplements) that you are taking. Stop smoking at least 2 weeks before Breast Augmentation surgery to avoid problems with healing during the post-operative period. Make arrangements for someone to drive you home and to help you around the house for a couple of days following Breast Augmentation surgery.

What is the recovery period like following Breast Augmentation surgery?

There is some degree of pain, swelling, bruising and soreness following Breast Augmentation surgery. Your surgeon will prescribe you pain medication to take after Breast Augmentation surgery. In the next 2 - 3 days, your gauze dressing will be removed and you will be given a surgical bra to wear (day and night) for the next one-month or so. Surgical bra or compression garment will help the fluid to drain down and minimize swelling and bruising. Your stitches will be removed in about 10 days. Refrain from performing any strenuous activities like participating in sports or lifting heavy objects for about 6 weeks after the Breast Augmentation operation. It is normal to be able to resume you full daily routine in about 3 months after the Breast Augmentation operation.

What is the outcome of Breast Augmentation procedure?

The outcome of Breast Augmentation is very satisfactory and successful. Your breasts will be enlarged for life. Clothes fit better and it certainly boosts your self-confidence and self esteem. Some cases of leakage or breaking of the breast implant have been reported. In this case, a second Breast Augmentation surgery may be needed.

Benefits of Breast Augmentation

The breast tissue is actually pushed to the surface as the breast implant is inserted behind the breast tissue. Following Breast Augmentation surgery it might become easier to perform breast self examination to gain familiarity with your breast tissue. Of course the obvious benefit Breast Augmentation is improved look of your breasts and your overall body image remains undisputed without any doubt.

Risks of Breast Augmentation

• Capsular contracture - In this scenario, there is a buildup of scar tissue around the breast implant. In this case a second surgery will have to be performed to remove or replace the breast implant.
• Leakage of the implant - The implant may rupture or leak, this may require a second surgery either to remove or replace the implant.
• Rippling or unevenness in breast texture - This usually happens when the breast implant moves.
• Increased sensitivity or loss of sensitivity in the nipple area - This may be temporary or permanent
• Interference with mammogram - Make sure that you inform your radiology technician about your breast implant
• Excessive bleeding
• Infection around the implant
• Symptoms of immune diseases - Rare but have been reported by some women more commonly by those women who have used silicone implants

Alternatives to Breast Augmentation

Breast Lift - Breast Augmentation is mostly performed in conjunction with Breast Lift. In Breast Lift the shape and contour of the breast is improved however, the size of the breast remains the same.

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