|
 Breast
augmentation is a surgical procedure to
enhance the size and shape of a woman's
breast. The reasons for this procedure
vary individually but may include wanting
a larger breast size, to correct a reduction
in breast volume after pregnancy, to balance
a difference in breast size, and as a
reconstructive technique following breast
surgery.
Breast
augmentation is performed with a general
anesthesia, so you'll sleep through the
entire operation.
The
method of inserting and positioning your
implant will depend on your anatomy and
surgical recommendation. The incision
can be made either in the crease where
the breast meets the chest, around the
areola, or in the armpit. Every effort
is made to assure that the incision is
placed so resulting scars will be as inconspicuous
as possible.
Working
through the incision, a pocket is created,
either directly behind the breast tissue
or underneath your chest wall muscle.
The implants are then centered beneath
your nipples.
Some
surgeons believe that putting the implants
behind your chest muscle may reduce the
potential for capsular contracture (scar
tissue formation). This placement may
also interfere less with breast examination
by mammogram than if the implant is placed
directly behind the breast tissue. Placement
behind the muscle however, may be more
painful for a few days after surgery than
placement directly under the breast tissue.
After
the surgery, you'll have drainage tubes
in place for two days. Stitches are used
to close the incisions and a gauze bandage
may be applied over your breasts to help
with healing. You're likely to feel tired
and sore for a few days following your
surgery, but you'll be up and around in
24 to 48 hours. You should be able to
return to work within a few days, depending
on the level of activity required for
your job. You will need to refrain from
lower body exercise for three weeks, and
upper body exercise for six weeks.
For
many women, the result of breast augmentation
can be satisfying, even exhilarating,
as they live with their fuller appearance.
Your decision to have this surgery is
a highly personal one
that not everyone will understand. The
important thing is how you feel about
it. If you've met your goals, then your
surgery is a success.
Complications
are rare - but must be thoroughly discussed
and considered before you decide to have
surgery.
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| Breast augmentation
is usually done to balance a difference
in breast size, to improve body contour,
or as a reconstructive technique following
surgery. |
Incisions are made to keep scars
as inconspicuous as possible, in the
breast crease, around the nipple,
or in the armpit. Breast tissue and
skin is lifted to create a pocket
for each implant. |
The breast implant may be inserted
directly under breast tissue or beneath
the chest wall muscle. |
After surgery, breasts appear fuller
and more natural in tone and contour.
Scars will fade with time. |
At
the time of consultation and the pre-operative
appointment, a very detailed packet is
reviewed with every patient including
the following:
| Procedure
Description: |
Enhance the size of breasts using
inflatable implants filled with saline.
|
Surgery
Length: |
1
to 2 hours. |
| Cost
Range : |
Saline Implants: $5,600.00
Gel Implants: $6,700.00
(includes Operating Room and an Anesthesiologist)
See our payment
options for cosmetic surgery.
|
Breast
Lift w/ Augmentation
Cost Range : |
$8500.00-
$10,000.00 (includes Operating Room
and an Anesthesiologist)
See our payment
options for cosmetic surgery.
|
| Anesthesia: |
Local
with sedation, or general. |
| In/Outpatient: |
Usually outpatient. |
| Side
Effects: |
Temporary soreness, swelling, change
in nipple sensation, bruising. Breast
sensitive to stimulation for a few
weeks. |
| Risks
associated with Surgery: |
Lack of implant permanence -- surgical
removal or replacement of the implants
may be required to treat problems,
including: deflation; the formation
of scar tissue around the implant
(capsular contracture), which may
cause the breast to feel tight or
hard; bleeding or infection. Increase
or decrease in sensitivity of nipples
or breast skin, occasionally permanent.
Mammagraphy requires a special technique.
(Note: Some women have reported
symptoms similar to those of immune
disorders. Ask your doctor about these
and other FDA concerns.) |
| Recovery
Period: |
Back to work : a few days.
Physical contact with breasts
: 3 to 4 weeks. Fading of
scars : several months to a year
or more. |
| Duration
of Results: |
Variable. Implants may require removal
or replacement. |
|
Procedures
- Breast Enlargement
