What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure to enhance breast size using either breast implants or your own fatty tissue. In some cases, breasts may be naturally small or asymmetrical, where one is smaller than the other. This can be corrected to achieve better symmetry. Additionally, factors like age, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or breast cancer can lead to a loss of breast volume. These conditions may require a surgical solution, either through breast implants or fat transfer, to enlarge and reshape the breasts.
Breast Augmentation Surgery
Before The Operation
Before surgery, you will have a consultation with your doctor to assess your body proportions and discuss your expectations. Together, you will choose the most suitable procedure. In cases of breast sagging, a breast lift may be combined with breast augmentation to achieve a fuller and lifted appearance. Breast lifting can often be done during the same surgery, but in some cases, a separate procedure may be required. Your plastic surgeon will guide you through this decision.
The doctor will also conduct appropriate medical tests to ensure you are ready for surgery.
During The Operation
Breast augmentation is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours.
If the option chosen is fat transfer, the surgeon will remove fat from areas such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks using liposuction. The fat is then processed and injected into the breasts to achieve the desired size and shape.
For breast implants, the surgeon makes an incision, creates a pocket in the chest or breast area, and places the implant in one of the following positions
- Underneath the pectoral muscle, between the breast tissue and chest wall.
- On top of the pectoral muscle, beneath the breast tissue.
Incisions may be made in one of four locations:
Transumbilical: In the navel.
Inframammary: Beneath the breast, just above the crease.
Transaxillary: Near the armpit, where the arm meets the chest.
Periareolar: Around the lower edge of the areola.
After The Operations
During recovery, you will need to wear a special medical bra and closely follow the doctor’s post-operative instructions. The results of the surgery are immediately visible, although final results will appear as swelling subsides.
Breast Augmentation Risks
As with any surgery, breast augmentation comes with potential risks, including:
- Anesthesia risks.
- Bleeding or hematoma.
- Infection.
- Changes in nipple or breast sensation.
- Poor scarring.
- Wrinkling of the skin over the implant.
- Rare cases of breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma.
How Much Does Breast Augmentation Cost?
The cost of breast augmentation varies depending on the technique used, the type of implant, and the areas involved. Prices may also change if the procedure is combined with other surgeries. It’s best to consult your surgeon for detailed pricing.
What Types of Breast Implants Are Available?
- Saline Breast Implants: Filled with sterile salt water. If the implant leaks, the saline is safely absorbed and expelled by the body. These are FDA-approved for women aged 18 or older.
- Structured Saline Implants: These have a more natural look due to their internal structure.
- Silicone Breast Implants: Filled with silicone gel, offering a more natural breast tissue feel. Recommended for women aged 22 or older.
- Gummy Bear Breast Implants: These maintain their shape, with a fuller bottom and tapered top.
- Round Breast Implants: Provide a fuller and larger appearance.
- Smooth Breast Implants: Offer a soft and natural feel.
- Textured Breast Implants: Develop scar tissue that adheres to the implant, reducing movement and repositioning.
Frequently Askes Questions
Who is a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation?
You may be a good candidate for breast augmentation if:
- You are in good health.
- You are not pregnant or breastfeeding.
- You feel that your breasts are too small.
- Your breasts are asymmetrical.
- One or both breasts failed to develop normally.
- The upper part of your chest appears empty.
