Breast Augmentation-
Also known as Breast Implants or Breast Enlargement
Breast augmentation is perhaps one of the most common cosmetic
surgeries in the US today. Modern day breast augmentation involves
enhancing the size of a breast using silicone or saline implants.
Prior to silicone implants, fat tissue, silicone injections, glass
balls, ground rubber and other synthetic substances had been used
for breast augmentation. Silicone and saline implants have been
in use since the 1970’s and have replaced other less stable
substances.
How is breast augmentation carried out?
Breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure. Frequently a small
incision is made under the breast (inframammary crease) and a
pocket is made either directly under the breast or under the muscle.
The implants are then placed in the pockets, and checked for balance
and appearance with the patient in an upright position and the
pocket closed. Small waterproof dressings are placed over the
incisions and the patient is placed in a bra.
What type of implants are used for breast augmentation?
There are currently two major types of implants used for breast augmentation.
Saline implants were first invented in the year 1964 and are essentially
a silicone elastomer shell filled with salt water. Silicone implants
are a composite of silicone elastomer shells filled with silicone
gel. Both are available choices for most patients.
Which implant is best for breast augmentation?
Several factors are taken into account when determining what
type of implant to use. Saline implants will essentially go flat
when they rupture, only leaving behind the plastic bag. Silicone
implants will rupture, but the thick gel does not go away. It
has been determined by multiple studies that the gel will not
cause disease, but can be a localized problem. Silicone tends
to feel more natural, and is often preferred in thin women. The
final choice of which implant to use will be determined by the
patient and the surgeon together.
Is breast augmentation painful?
Breast augmentation is not categorized as ‘major surgery’
but like all surgery there is a certain amount of pain associated
with breast augmentation. The pain will vary depending on the
tightness of the skin and the size of the implants. Most women
undergoing breast augmentation usually experience some discomfort
while their body adjusts to the implant.
Can I choose where I want the incision?
As part of your consultation, where the incision is placed is will
be discussed. The inframammary incision (under the breast) is
one of the more popular placement spots. At times the incision
is placed just under the nipple. The incision placement may change
if the breast is being lifted at the same time.
What complications can arise?
Bleeding and infection are risks of any surgery. There is about
a 1% risk of infection. Bleeding, infection, asymmetry, change
in nipple sensation, rupture of the implants, tightness of the
internal scar and interference with mammogram, are some of the
complications Dr Wray will discuss with you.
What can happen if the implant ruptures?
If a saline implant ruptures, the breast will flatten and it is obvious
there is a rupture. Silicone does not go away, so it is harder
to detect a ruptured silicone implant. The breast may still look
and feel the same. Studies have shown that the silicone does not
cause illness even when it is loose in the body.
Will I get stretch marks after breast augmentation?
Stretch marks are subject to the elasticity of your skin. It
is impossible to judge how your body will react to the implant
and stretch marks can occur if the skin in very tight or if the
implant is large. The incidence of stretch marks is very low,
and only a small percent of women develop stretch marks after
breast augmentation.
Will there be swelling after breast augmentation?
Swelling is one of the most common post operative side effects
of breast augmentation and a majority of women undergoing breast
augmentation experience some swelling. The breasts will initially
feel tight, and with time will soften, usually within a few weeks.
How long is the recovery period?
Breast augmentation surgery is an outpatient surgery, and most patients
are back to work in a few days. The bruising and soreness can
last several weeks, and it is usually 4-6 weeks before a patient
can resume vigorous exercise.
For more information about Breast Augmentation in Virginia...
The professionals at The Center for Plastic Surgery and MediSpa
are always available to answer any questions regarding our Breast
Augmentation procedures. Please give us a call at 1-540-444-4343
to schedule a consultation. You can also schedule a consultation
online by clicking here: Schedule
a Consultation Online for a Breast Augmentation
Breast Augmentation Before and After Photos
To Learn more about Breast Augmentation, Click Here
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