Breast Augmentation   

(Mamaplasty)

What It Does

Breast augmentation is a plastic surgery that, utilizing implants, creates a fuller breast or restores breast volume lost after weight reduction or pregnancy. Augmentation can also be an option if your breasts vary in size or shape, or one or both breasts failed to develop normally.

Procedure Basics

There are currently two types of FDA-approved implants available: saline implants and silicone implants. Saline implants can be filled with varying amounts of sterile salt water; silicone implants are filled with an elastic gel that moves and feels like breast tissue. During your consultation, your surgeon can discuss the benefits and risks of both types of implant.

Breast augmentation requires surgery, including general anesthesia and either in-hospital care or post out-patient care at home. Your surgeon will explain the details of the procedure and incision options based on your desired outcome. Incisions are made in inconspicuous areas to minimize visible scarring. The types and locations of the incisions will be considered by your surgeon based on the type of implants inserted and their placement, the degree of enlargement you desire, your particular anatomy, or any location preferences you and your surgeon might discuss.

Recovery

You will require a post-surgical recovery period of 24 to 48 hours, followed by several days of limited activity—you should have someone available to assist you and be with you the day of and following surgery. Swelling and soreness may continue for a few weeks and normal activity should be resumed under the direction of your surgeon. You will be given specific instructions concerning post-surgical medications, breast care, and when to follow up with your surgeon. The success of your procedure and healing will be greatly enhanced by carefully following your doctor’s post-surgical instructions. Be sure to attend any follow up visits with your surgeon as directed.

Additional Information

Risks involved with Breast Augmentation include unfavorable scarring, changes in nipple or breast sensation, implant leakage or rupture, persistent pain, or revisional surgery among others. Your surgeon will discuss the risks of surgery with you as part of your consultation based on your medical history, current physical health, and the extent of surgery required.

Breast implants are not guaranteed to last a lifetime. You should consider that future surgery may be required to replace one or both implants. Pregnancy, weight loss, and menopause may also affect the appearance of an augmented breast, which may require additional corrective surgery. You should revisit your surgeon periodically to review your breast health and appearance, the position and status of your implants, and any changes to your breasts that might occur.

Additional Resources

There is a wealth of information available concerning breast Augmentation surgery provided by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (www.plasticsurgery.org); click on “Cosmetic” and choose from the list of procedures. The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, Inc. (www.surgery.org) also provides in-depth information; choose “Procedures” for a list of topics.

To schedule a consultation to discuss breast augmentation surgery with Dr. Christine Kelley, please call 317/575-0330.