Breast augmentation involves the use of breast implants or fat transfer to increase breast size. This procedure can also restore breast volume lost after weight loss or pregnancy, achieve a more rounded breast shape, or improve natural breast size asymmetry. The increase in the volume of the breast is also referred to as Breast Augmentation. When fat from another part of the patient's body is used to create enhanced breast volume, the procedure is referred to as fat transfer breast augmentation (lipofilling).
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What Breast Augmentation Surgery Can Do:
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- Increases fullness and breast projection
- Improve the balance of the breast contours and body silhouette.
- Improve your self-image and self-confidence
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Breast implants can also be used for breast reconstruction after mastectomy or injury.
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What Breast Augmentation Surgery Cannot Do:
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Breast augmentation does not correct severely sagging breasts. A breast lift may be needed along with a breast augmentation for sagging breasts to give a fuller, lifted look. Breast lift can often be done at the same time as augmentation or it may require a separate operation.
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Preparation
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The surgeon generally:
- Assesses your medical history and general health
- Considers your expectations for breast size and appearance after surgery
- Provides a detailed description of the procedure and its risks and benefits, including likely scarring and possible loss of sensation and other possible complications
- Examines and measures your breasts
- Takes pictures of your breasts for your medical record
- Explains the type of anesthesia used during the surgery
Before the surgery, you will be asked to:
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- Complete various laboratory analysis
- Undergo a mammogram and breast ultrasound
- Stop smoking for a certain period of time before and after surgery
- Avoid taking Aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements, to control bleeding during surgery
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After the procedure
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Immediately after surgery:
- The breasts will be covered with gauze or bandages
- A drainage tube will be placed under each arm to drain excess blood or fluid
- You will likely be taking pain medications and antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection.
For the first few days or week after surgery:
- Your breasts will probably be sensitive
- It may be swollen and bruised
- Your surgeon may recommend a support bra to protect your breasts
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After:
- You will need to limit physical activity for two to four weeks while the breasts heal
- Your surgeon may suggest that you avoid underwire bras for a few months after surgery
- The scars become less visible over time but always present.
- You will need several follow-up visits with your surgeon to remove the stitches and check your healing.