Breast Augmentation
(Breast Implants, Breast Enlargement)
Related topic: Breast lift
(mastopexy)
Many women regard their breasts as important to their sexual attractiveness, as a sign of femininity that is important to their sense of self. The size and shape of the breasts are important considerations denoting youth and faminity. Women concerned about their breast shape or size report improved physical health, physical appearance, social life, self-confidence, self-esteem, and satisfactory sexual functioning after augmentation.
Silicon Breast Implants :
Silicon implants can be placed under the breasts to give them greater volume and a better projecting shape. This is the most frequent and established way of breast augmentation. Variations include size of implant, its shape and texture and the incision used to place the implant. 5th generation breast implants are now available in the market with 'cohesive silicon gel' to minimize complications.
The procedure is usually done under general
anaesthesia as a day case procedure. Which means that the patient
can go home in the evening. The incision is usually well hidden in
the armpit, around the areola or under the
breast.
Silicon filled breast implants
http://en.wikipedia.org
Incisions for implant placement
Anaesthesia: Usually done under General Anaesthesia, possible to do with numbing only
Hospital stay: Day case procedure. Patient can go home in the evening
Down time: 1-2 days. Heavy exercises/aerobics to be avoided for 10 days.
Scars: Usually well hidden in the armpit, around the areola or under the breast
Complications: Early: Hematoma, Seroma, Wound Break Down, Infection, Poor Scarring,
Late: Asymmetry, Contour Abnormality, Capsular Contracture,
Implant Extrusion,
Fat Injections:
This is a newer technique. Fat is removed from the patients body and injected into the breast to increase their volume and improve the shape. The results are less predictable than breast implants but there are fewer long term complications. It has the added benefit of removing fat from areas that are bulky.
Anaesthesia: Usually done under General Anaesthesia, possible to do with numbing only
Hospital stay: Day case procedure. Patient can go home in the evening
Down time: 1-2 days. Heavy exercises/aerobics to be avoided for 10 days.
Scars:
Less than 5 mm scars, usually well hidden and not
noticeable.
Complications: Early: Fluid discharge from liposuction site, Hematoma, Seroma, Infection, Mondor's Disease
Late: Asymmetry, Contour Abnormality, Graft
Absorption
FAQs
Do I need breast implants?
Deciding to have breast implant surgery is a very personal decision. The plastic surgeon can help you in reaching a decision by sharing his experience and knowledge but the final decision has to be yours.
What are the steps in having breast implant surgery?
The usual steps are
- Initial consultation
- Choice of implant size and type
- Booking for surgery
- Surgery
- Post surgical care and followup
Initial Consultation
At the initial consultation you should discuss your concerns with the doctor and your idea of how much bigger you want your breasts to be. It is easier if you know your correct cup size and what size you want to have with implants.
The doctor will examine you to look for present condition of the breasts, presence of any lumps, symmetry, and the degree of sagging.
During this consultation you and the plastic surgeon will also decide which incision to use, which implant to use and which plane to put it in.
Do let your doctor know if you have any medical condition or if you are taking any medications including vitamins and supplements.
Choice of implant size and type
After talking to you and examining your breasts the plastic surgeon will decide what sized implants you ill require on either side. Some times he may also simulate the post surgery volume by putting a ‘sizer’ or water filled balloon into the bra. It is sometimes possible to have different size implants on either side to compensate for previous asymmetry.
The most commonly used implants are ‘silicon implants’. They have outer silicon capsule filled with cohesive silicon gel. This minimizes the chances of leakage. The surface of the implant is textured to reduce chances of capsular contracture.
Booking for surgery
It is essential that you discuss all the pros and cons of implant surgery and the risks with you plastic surgeon before being booked for surgery. The plastic surgeon will also order some tests to assess your fitness for anesthesia. You may also want to meet the anesthetist beforehand to discuss the anesthesia plan and post operative recovery.
Surgery
The surgery is usually done under general anesthesia. However it does not usually require overnight hospital stay. Which means that you may be able to go home 4 – 6 hours after surgery.
Post Operative Care and Followup
You will usually be allowed to go home 4-6 hours after surgery. An accompanying adult will have to drive you home. You will be given medication to be taken orally. This will include pain medication. There will be some discomfort for the first 24-48 hours. You will also be required to wear a tight fitting bra or a sports bra for at least a week to keep the implant firmly in place.
The first follow-up visit is usually 5 days after surgery.
What are the choices of incision for breast implant surgery?
The incision may be in the armpit, under the breast or just around the nipple. The scar is usually very thin and not noticeable.
What are the options for placement of breast implant?
The implant may be placed just under the breast, under the muscle(pectoralis major, or partially under both. The choice will depend upon the shape and size of your breast.
What is the total down time after breast implant surgery?
Patients are usually up and about the very same day. On the day after surgery they are allowed a shower and light activity. Aerobics are avoided for a week to 10 days. Patients usually resume normal activity after 3 weeks.
What are the possible risks and complication after breast implant surgery?
The early complications are hematoma formation, infection and implant displacement.
Later on the patient may develop breast asymmetry, capsular contracture (painful breasts), breast deformity, rippling or bottoming out. She may require surgical revision, change of implants or implant removal. There is also a slight risk of impaired nipple sensation after implant surgery
Do breast implants cause cancer?
No. extensive research has been done to study a link between breast implants and breast cancer or any other illness. No link has so far been found.
Do breast implants affect breast feeding?
No. Breast implants are placed under the breast tissue and do not interfere with feeding?