Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the size, shape, or fullness of the breasts. This can be achieved through the insertion of breast implants and/or fat transfer. Implants are typically filled with saline or silicone gel and are placed either under the breast tissue or beneath the chest muscle. Fat transfer involves liposuction to take fat from other parts of the body and inject it into the breasts.
Board certified plastic surgeons Dr. Gabriel M. Kind and Dr. David S. Chang perform breast augmentation surgery in San Francisco. Women who desire larger breasts may wish to have a breast augmentation procedure. Breast augmentation may also be indicated for women who have one breast that is noticeably smaller than the other and is intended to give the patient larger and more shapely breasts. Breast augmentation can also be part of reconstructive surgery to add volume to a normal breast and improve symmetry with a breast reconstructed after mastectomy.
Benefits of Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation can significantly enhance body contour and improve overall body image. It can lead to greater self-confidence and a positive self-esteem by providing the desired breast size and shape. The procedure can also correct asymmetrical breasts and restore volume lost due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, or significant weight loss.
Breast augmentation surgery is done on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. The incision can be made under the breast, around the areola, or in the armpit. Patients have the option of a saline breast implant or a silicone gel breast implant. The implant can be inserted under the breast tissue or under the breast tissue and the underlying muscle.
After the surgery, the patient goes home in an elastic bra or an Ace wrap. Initial discomfort is controlled with oral medication. Sutures are placed under the skin and do not need to be removed. Light activities can be resumed as tolerated and aerobic activities or exercise can be started in about four weeks. If the breasts are sagging in addition to being small, an additional procedure that can enhance the result of a breast augmentation is a mastopexy (breast lift). Not every patient is a candidate for all of these options, and these are best discussed during a consultation with Dr. Kind or Dr. Chang.
Breast augmentation is suitable for adults who wish to enhance their breast size and shape for cosmetic or reconstructive reasons. It is ideal for those with naturally small breasts, asymmetrical breasts, or those who have lost breast volume due to weight loss, pregnancy, or aging.
Surgical Process
The breast augmentation treatment process begins with an initial consultation where the patient discusses their aesthetic goals, medical history, and any concerns with your surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon explains the types of implants available, the surgical techniques, and the potential risks and complications. Pre-operative instructions often include stopping certain medications, avoiding smoking, and arranging for someone to drive the patient home after surgery. On the day of the procedure, the patient undergoes anesthesia, and the surgeon makes the incisions based on the pre-discussed plan. Implants are inserted and positioned, and the incisions are closed.
Q: What is the recovery time after breast augmentation?
A: Most patients can return to work within a week, but should avoid strenuous activities for 4-6 weeks. Full recovery may take a few months.
Q: Are breast implants safe?
A: Breast implants are FDA approved and considered safe, but like any surgery, they carry risks. Discuss these with your surgeon.
Q: What are the potential complications?
A: Potential complications include infection, bleeding, scarring, implant leakage, and capsular contracture. Choosing an experienced surgeon and following post-operative care instructions can minimize these risks.
DISCLAIMER: Before and after results are NOT a guarantee that your results will be the same or similar. Each patient’s results will be different. Your results will vary from other patient’s results.