Breast augmentation is a common surgical procedure to enhance
breasts' size and shape. Before consulting with a surgeon,
however, it's important to educate yourself. We've
compiled the following information as a basic overview. Keep in
mind that this information does not replace the advice of a
professional surgeon.
Your consultation
Before you undergo breast
augmentation, you'll meet with your surgeon. You should
prepare for this consultation by thinking about what you like and
don't like about your breasts. Remember, you're not
seeking perfection, but improvement. Also, be sure that
you're in good mental and physical health, overall, and that
you have realistic expectations. This surgery is not going to solve
problems for you.
Your surgeon will also need to take a detailed medical history,
including asking you what medications you are taking, what
allergies you may have, your smoking history and any prior
surgeries. This history taking will also include discussion of any
previous problems you've had with your breasts, including
lumps, previous mammograms and any family history of breast
problems.
How is a breast augmentation done?
The procedure
will take about one to two hours. It will be performed either under
general anesthesia (you'll go to sleep) or local anesthesia
with an oral sedative. You and your surgeon will determine this
together.
Breast augmentation can be performed in one of several ways.
Your surgeon can perform the procedure via the crease under your
breast (known as the inframammary fold); via the areola (known as
the "nipple" incision); or via your armpit (known as a
transaxillary approach). Your surgeon will discuss all the possible
methods with you and together you will determine which approach
best suits your needs.
Different types of implants are used as well, including saline
or silicone gel. Your surgeon will discuss all your implant options
with you. Ask your surgeon for FDA information on the different
types of implants.
There are two different ways for your surgeon to insert the
implant: either under the breast tissue or behind the breast
muscle. You can discuss the benefits of each method with your
surgeon and make that decision together.
After the implants are placed, the incision sites will be
stitched closed, and your surgeon may also use drainage tubes.
It's very important that you follow your surgeon's
follow-up care instructions for the incision site. Your breasts
will be covered with a gauze bandage or you may even be sent home
with a surgical bra.