Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation, also referred to as augmentation mammaplasty, is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to increase the size of the breast by inserting a saline or silicone implant under the breast tissue or under the chest muscle. Incisions may be located in the crease beneath the breast (inframammary), around the areola (periareolar), or in the armpit (axillary). The implant may also be inserted through an incision made at the naval, or belly button. Your desired results and the surgeon’s preferences will help to determine the particular technique used for breast surgery.

Saline-filled implants, which are comprised of a silicone rubber shell that is filled with sterile saltwater, are used most today. With these implants, the saltwater can be harmlessly absorbed by the body if the implant ruptures or leaks. Silicone gel implants are also available and their use can be discussed with the surgeon at the time of consultation.

Are You a Good Candidate for a Breast Augmentation?

You may be a good candidate for breast augmentation if you are bothered by any of the following:

• Feelings that your breasts are too small
• A loss of breast size and firmness resulting from pregnancy and childbirth
• A change or reduction in breast size and shape following weight loss
• A noticeable difference between the sizes of each breast
• Difficulty finding clothing because clothes that fit well at the waist and hips prove too large in the bust line
• Feelings of self-consciousness when wearing form-fitting tops or swimsuits

Women considering breast augmentation must be emotionally mature and realistic in their expectations. Patients should understand their own motivations for undergoing the procedure and know that surgery can provide improvement but not perfection.

For younger patients, surgery should be performed only once breast development is complete.

Benefits

A breast augmentation can help enlarge small breasts, even out imbalanced breasts or restore breast volume that has decreased due to weight loss, pregnancy or aging. The result can be a more proportional body shape, increase confidence and an improved self-image.

Keep in mind, certain factors may affect your results, such as significant weight loss or gain after surgery or future pregnancy. Also, additional procedures may be recommended to help you achieve your goals, such as a breast lift in cases where the breasts are sagging.