Breast augmentation enhances the contour and size of a women’s breasts. Though most commonly performed because the patient would prefer a larger sized breasts, breast augmentation may also correct volume loss after pregnancy, improve breast symmetry, or reconstruct the breast after surgical removal. Most women know someone who has had a breast augmentation. However, much knowledge about breast augmentation is obtained during a consultation.
Breast implants may be placed directly under the breast tissue (subglandular), or it may be placed under the pectoral major muscle (submuscular). Submuscular placement though making recovery longer, has the benefits of better impalnt concealment, a more natural look and less risk of the breasts becoming firm, called a capsular contracture. Occasionally subglandular placement is considered in certain instances.
Implants come in two major types, saline or silicone. Though concerns about silicone gel safety existed in the past, more than ten years of study established their safety and led to FDA re-approval. All implants will be palpable and ripple. Rippling is when a fold in the implant shell can be felt or seen. Silicone implants ripple less and feel more natural. Saline implants are less expensive and can be placed through a smaller incision.
Implants can be placed through four different incisions; the crease under the breast (infra-mammary crease), next to the areola (peri-areolar), the arm-pit (trans-axillary) and through the belly-button. At Envision Cosmetic Surgery only the infra-mammary crease and peri-areolar incisions are used. The most common incision site chosen is in the crease under the breast. However, the incision next to the areola heals less noticeable.
Most women have slight differences in size or shape between their breasts. Major asymmetries are always improved. Minor asymmetries are often improved, however, subtle differences between the two breasts may persist after surgery. Not often are two breasts exactly the same.
The surgery itself lasts about an hour. The patient is usually asleep or sedated although from the patients perspective it feels the same. Patients are able to go home shortly after surgery. Initially the implants will be slightly high and the breasts firm. The implants settle into position after two weeks to two months. Once the implants have settled your breasts feel soft and natural. Patients are typically thrilled with their results.
