Breast Augmentation

Breast Augmentation is surgical procedure designed to increase the size and enhance the shape of one's breasts. Not only can this procedure enhance your appearance, it can possibly help build your self-confidence and self esteem. Also as a result of the procedure, many women have found it easier to dress in certain styles of clothing. Women have different reasons for undergoing breast augmentation.

The best candidates for breast augmentation are:

• Women who feel their breasts are too small and are looking to improve their figure.
• Women who have lost breast volume and shape as a result of pregnancy and nursing.
• Women whose breasts have lost volume and shape as a result of aging.
• There is a significant difference in the sizes of both breasts.
• Weight loss has changed the shape and or size of your breast.

For any reason a woman might have for wanting breast augmentation, ultimately the individual should be in good physical condition and have realistic goals and expectations in order to be considered a good candidate for the procedure.

The breast augmentation procedure involves the surgical placement of an implant within a woman's breast. A breast implant is a silicone shell filled with either a saltwater solution known as saline, or filled with a silicone gel. If the saline-filled implant leaks, the fluid is absorbed into the body. This is the same as if the saline were given as an IV fluid. Currently the FDA approves saline-filled implants to be used on an unrestricted basis, while silicone gel-filled implants are only to be used in certain cases. Information regarding implants is discussed with the patient during consultation and at the time of surgery.

The incision can be placed in a number of different locations including around the areola, in the armpit, but often times it is made underneath the breast and just above the crease. The doctor takes every effort to assure that the incision is placed so the resulting scars will be as inconspicuous as possible. After the incision is made, a pocket is created either under the breast tissue or under the pectoralis muscle. This pocket is made just large enough to accommodate the implant. The implant is then positioned to give the best cosmetic result. The method of inserting and positioning an implant is dependent upon factors based on the patient's anatomy that are discussed with your doctor at the time of the consultation.

Following surgery, detailed instructions are given to the patient as to postoperative care and activity. It is important for a patient to follow these instructions in order to minimize any complications and to help achieve the best results. The surgeon will also advise the patient as to when they can return to their normal activities. Most patients are able to return to work within a few days, and more strenuous activities in about two to three weeks following surgery.

Breast Reconstruction

Breast reconstruction has become one of the most rewarding surgical procedures performed today. Each year, many women become afflicted with breast cancer. Unfortunately for some, this disease leads to the removal of one or both breasts. However, advancements in breast reconstruction have allowed doctors to actually recreate a breast that is almost identical in look and feel of a natural breast. This is accomplished through the use of breast implants and skin expansion or flap reconstruction techniques. Doctors can even perform breast reconstruction immediately after the breast removal, or mastectomy. This allows the woman to awaken from surgery and not see herself missing a breast. Not only can breast reconstruction help improve appearance; it has helped many women improve their quality of life and regain a sense of femininity. However this is a major surgical procedure, and there is a lot of information one needs to know before undergoing breast reconstruction. That is why it is important for a patient to discuss her options with not only her plastic surgeon, but also her breast surgeon.

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Breast Reduction

Women with very large, sagging breasts tend to have neck, back and shoulder pain. Patients find breast reduction surgery to greatly benefit their life. Patients not only have relief from their symptoms but also the ability to exercise better, wear more fitting clothes and many have psychological benefits. Of all surgeries that plastic surgeons perform, breast reduction ranks among the highest in patient satisfaction. Patients of most any age may have breast reduction surgery, however, most surgeons recommend waiting until after breasts have fully developed. Breast reduction surgery is not recommended for those women who intend to breast-feed.

You may be a good candidate for breast reduction if you have any of the following problems:

• Neck, back or shoulder pain
• Shoulder notching / furrowing from you bra strap
• Heavy, sagging breasts
• Breasts that are too large for your body size
• Irritation and rash beneath your breasts
• Difficulty with exercise and physical activities due to large heavy breasts
• One breast that is larger than the other creating a significant asymmetry

During Breast Reduction surgery, fatty tissue in the breast, along with glandular tissue and excess skin are removed. By removing these elements, the breast can be pulled tighter making them lighter, smaller and firmer. Breast Reduction surgery is generally performed under a general anesthesia, and usually takes between 2 to 4 hours to complete. After your surgery, you will be wrapped in an elastic bandage, or surgical bra over gauze for 2-3 days. You may have a drain placed in to allow excess fluid and or blood to drain from the incision. You can expect a recovery period of about 2 weeks.

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BEFORE & AFTER PHOTOS

(The same "before" and "after" results may not occur for all patients)

PATIENT 8
Breast Reduction / Mastopexy - Actual Patient
Age:36
Height:5' 10
Weight:150

PATIENT 7
Breast Augmentation - Actual Patient
Age:34
Height:5' 6
Weight:154
Placement:Retromuscular
Incision:Periareolar

PATIENT 6
Breast Augmentation - Actual Patient
Age:23
Height:5' 7
Weight:135
Placement:Retromuscular
Incision:Periareolar

PATIENT 5
Breast Augmentation - Actual Patient
Age:37
Height:5' 5
Weight:117
Placement:Retromuscular
Incision:Periareolar

PATIENT 4
Breast Reduction / Mastopexy - Actual Patient
Age:35
Height:5' 3
Weight:115
Placement:Retromuscular
Incision:Periareolar / Mastopexy

PATIENT 3
Breast Augmentation - Actual Patient
Age:21
Height:5' 4
Weight:125
Placement:Retromuscular
Incision:Periareolar

PATIENT 2
Breast Augmentation - Actual Patient
Age:25
Height:5' 7
Weight:134
Placement:Retromuscular
Incision:Periareolar

PATIENT 1
Breast Augmentation - Actual Patient
Age:21
Height:5' 4
Weight:130
Placement:Retromuscular
Incision:Periareolar