Breast Augmentation
Is there a more quintessential symbol of femininity than the breast? It is not surprising then that breast augmentation is the most popular cosmetic surgery procedure in the United States. And it is becoming even more popular. In fact the number of breast augmentation surgeries has multiplied seven-fold between 1992 and 2004. It is an increasingly typical way for women to achieve a look that better fits their confidence and desire. Breast Augmentation surgery can help a woman restore fullness to her breasts after pregnancy or weight loss; help a woman achieve a more sensual silhouette; achieve more symmetry in the breasts or greater proportionality between her breasts and her other features. The reasons for breast augmentation are as varied and unique as the women who have the procedure performed. Clearly, one size does not fit all, and the ideal form and size is a matter of personal taste and judgment. At the Plastic Surgery Center, Dr. Green will take the time necessary to understand and appreciate your view of the "ideal" so that you can achieve the result you desire. Whichever surgeon you choose it is important that you find one who is as dedicated to your expectations as you are. There is no more discriminating eye than yours – except for perhaps your cosmetic surgeon's. Dr. Scott Green is someone who will share your "eye" of the ideal, and has the skill, experience and artistry to optimize your results. Whatever your view of the "ideal" is we invite you to have a consult with Dr. Green, to discuss what breast augmentation surgery can do for you, and learn how Dr. Green can help make your ideal a reality.
What You Should Know About Breast Augmentation Surgery
Over 250,000 women receive breast implants every year in the United States. Today, women have a choice of silicone gel implants or saline (sterile salt water). The choice of implant, size, shape and other features will be determined based on your breast anatomy, body type and desired increase in size. Other determinative factors include your lifestyle, goals and personal preferences. Dr. Scott Green will discuss the differences and advantages of each, and help you make the right choice for you. A breast augmentation surgery, also known as an Augmentation Mammoplasty, may be combined with a breast lift procedure for patients who have drooping or sagging breasts.
It is not unusual to experience soreness and swelling as well as bruising around the breasts following this procedure. Generally this will begin to dissipate after the first few days following surgery, but you can expect to have some soreness and swelling of the breasts for the first few weeks. Most women are able to return to work after the first week of their recovery. Stitches, if present, are generally removed after seven days. After two weeks a patient can resume limited physical activities. Breasts will begin to show the desired long-term shape and feel after three to four months post-surgery.
How Breast Augmentation Surgery is Performed
A professional anesthesiologist will administer general anesthesia or I.V. sedation may be used for breast augmentation surgery. The method of inserting and positioning your implant will depend on your anatomy and your surgeon's recommendation. The incision can be made either in the crease where the breast meets the chest, around the areola (the dark skin surrounding the nipple), or in the armpit. In addition, a saline implant may be placed through an incision at the navel. Every effort will be made to assure that the incision is placed so resulting scars will be as inconspicuous as possible.
Working through the incision, the surgeon will lift your breast tissue and skin to create a pocket, either directly behind the breast tissue (Submammary or Subglandular placement) or may be placed beneath the pectoral muscle and on top of the chest wall (Submuscular placement). Once the implant is positioned within this pocket, the incisions are closed with sutures, skin adhesive and/or surgical tape. A gauze bandage may be applied over your breasts to help with healing.
The surgery usually takes one to two hours to complete. Dr. Green will discuss all of the potential alternatives and advantages of the various procedures that can be performed in the breast implant procedure. Immediately after the procedure your breasts will be noticeably fuller and firmer. Dr. Green will instruct you as to the best sleeping positions to employ during your recovery.
As with any cosmetic surgery, be sure to follow your plastic surgeons instructions regarding taking medications and vitamins, eating, drinking and ceasing smoking.
