Breast augmentation is performed to enhance the appearance, size, and contour of a woman’s breasts. Women consider breast augmentation for many different reasons. Some women feel their breasts are too small. Some desire augmentation after their breasts changes after pregnancy. Others desire to correct an asymmetry in breast size.
You may be a candidate for breast augmentation if you are increasing the size, changing the shape, or improving the symmetry of your breasts. The FDA limits
silicone breast implants are used in women older than age 22, but saline implants can be used in any woman above age 18
Breast augmentation is performed with FDA approved implants that can be placed under a chest muscle or over a chest muscle. The incision can be placed in the axilla (armpit), areola (the area surrounding the nipple), or lower breast fold. In general, all breast augmentations are minimally invasive procedures.
At your initial consultation, we will discuss your needs and desires regarding breast augmentation. Dr. Archa will review your medical history and fitness for surgery, as well as your goals for this procedure. We will also discuss the sizing to see which one will look good on your body, surgery in detail, including pre-op requirements, what happens during surgery, and your expected post-operative recovery.
You may be asked to undergo lab testing or a medical evaluation to rule out any external issues that may interfere with your breast augmentation. You may also be asked to start, discontinue, or adjust your current medication schedule. You’ll recover more quickly if you stop smoking, and you should avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory medicines, or any herbal supplements as these can increase bleeding.
You will be instructed to avoid food and drinks on the day of your surgery. Dr. Archa and a partnering plastic surgeon will see you in the pre-operative area and place a series of planning marks on your breasts. You’ll be placed under general anaesthesia for the duration of your procedure, meaning you’ll feel and remember nothing regarding the surgery. Depending on the type of implant you receive, a small incision beneath the breast or under the nipple. The implant will be secured in place and your incision sutured shut. Most breast augmentations take 2-3 hours.
Breast augmentation recovery may involve the placement of bandages or dressings to allow the incisions to heal. You may be asked to wear an elastic garment for approximately six weeks to allow the breasts to heal. There may be a small amount of drainage, and it’s possible that your breasts will be bruised or uncomfortable for a few days. Recovery time varies but it helps considerably to be in good health and engage in regular physical activity before undergoing the surgery. You will be given detailed post-operative instructions regarding recovery and post-op activities. Most breast augmentation patients feel pretty good a day or 2 after surgery, and most patients return to non-strenuous work within a few days.
