In Breast Augmentation surgery, the breast is supplemented with implants designed to look and feel like actual breast tissue. Breast Augmentation has many variables. You should consult with your doctor about types and shapes of implants, where to place them and the location of the incision. Each type and method comes with its own advantages and disadvantages. Although it is possible to do the procedure under a local anesthesia with sedation, this surgery is usually done under general anesthesia. You will sleep through the entire procedure. Afterwards, arrange for transportation to take you home.

• Implant fills: Most implants for breast augmentation are filled with saline, which is contained in a soft silicone shell. Should a leak develop in the implant shell, the saline is absorbed harmlessly into the surrounding tissue. Saline implants are filled at the time of surgery through a small tube and self-sealing valve. Silicone implants are preferred for their look and feel, but require regular MRIs every few years to detect possible rupture. Silicone gel implants have recently been FDA approved for use in both reconstructive and augmentation procedures.
• Implant shapes: There is some disagreement over whether round or teardrop-shaped implants give a more realistic look. There are also smooth implants, for a more natural look and feel, or textured implants, designed to resist hardening and stay in place.
• Implant placement: Implants can be inserted above or below the muscle of the chest. Submuscular implants are less likely to form firm scar tissue and have a more natural feel. They also do not complicate mammograms. However, the surgery is more invasive and takes longer to recover from. Implants inserted above the muscle but below the breast glands give better projection, but may have a higher risk of hardening. Placement above the muscle may also make mammograms more difficult, requiring you to find a technician experienced with implants.
• Incision location: The incision may be made at the border of the areola, under the crease of the breast, through the armpit or through the bellybutton. Each incision has advantages and disadvantages. You should discuss your concerns with your doctor to select an approach. The physicians of Specialists in Plastic Surgery do not perform breast augmentation through the belly button because it negates the manufacturers warranty on the breast implants.

Breast Augmentation is the most popular plastic surgery among women. Saline implants are filled with saline solution that is harmlessly absorbed into the body should a break occur. Silicone implants have shown an excellent safety profile after extensive testing. As a surgical procedure, there are risks, such as bleeding, infection, rippling, shifting, excessive scarring, loss of sensation, and hardness due to scar contracture (capsular contracture).

Temporary alteration in sensation is normal, but loss of nipple sensation is not common, occurring in less than ten percent. Temporary swelling, pain and itching are normal. Some may experience occasional breast pain or hypersensitivity. Your ability to breast feed may also be affected. For more information of the safety of breast implants, visit http://breastimplantsafety.org.

Yes, this is a surgical procedure and requires recovery time. You will need to arrange transportation to bring and take you home. Most woman resume usual daily activity in one to five days.

Breast Augmentation enhances the breast by making it larger and in better proportion to the body based on your personal preference. Most woman report feeling more confident about themselves.

Improved breast size, increased cleavage and better body proportion are the results.

You should expect some discomfort, which varies from person to person and may be worse for those getting implants under the muscle. Some bruising is common. Incision scars may be red at first, but usually fade with time. Implants may temporarily sit high until they settle and may be firm at first. This generally takes a few weeks.

A visible change is immediate. Desired results can be seen once swelling diminishes and the implants settle, usually within a few weeks.

The procedure typically takes one to two hours.

Healthy women over the age of 18 (saline implants) or 21 (silicone implants) who are seeking increased breast size are good candidates. Existing breast shape, size and skin quality largely determine subsequent results. Woman who have lost breast tissue do to changes associated with having children or aging are often good candidates.

Women with untreated breast cancer or active infections are not candidates. Women with autoimmune disorders or family history of autoimmune disease should discuss this with their doctor.

Afterwards, some swelling, tightness, tenderness and pain are normal.

Sagging breasts may be addressed with a breast lift rather than an implant, or the procedures can be combined. Some slight breast enhancement can be achieved through the hormones in birth control pills. Herbal medications and over-the-counter medications may provide temporary swelling and are not regulated by the FDA.

Breast implants are not lifetime devices and should be checked regularly. Your doctor should advise you when you need to come in for follow-up appointments. Women undergoing breast augmentation should understand there is a significant chance that they will require revision or implant replacement.

Breast implants will never have the exact feel of breast tissue, although some may not notice. While implants may help correct asymmetry, the implant itself will not correct asymmetric nipple position or problems with breast shape.

Avoid ibuprophen and aspirin for two weeks before surgery, as they are blood thinners and may increase bleeding. You should avoid smoking for the duration as well. Leave your fingernails unpainted for monitoring purposes during surgery. If you will not have help during your recovery, make preparations. Take items you will need off of high shelves and set out clothing that is easy to put on.

Expect to be on pain medication for a few days. Rest and limit your movement. If you show any signs of infection, such as fever or bleeding, see your doctor. You may be up in one or two days, but your motion will still be limited. After several days, any dressings you have will be removed, and you may be given a surgical bra. At this time, you can return to work. After two weeks, any pain sensations should fade. Until then, avoid close physical contact. At three to five weeks any swelling should diminish, and you may resume exercise. It should take several months for your scars to fade.