Breast Augmentation Can Correct A Woman's Breast Assymetries

Breast augmentation, technically known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure to enhance the size and shape of a woman's breasts. It is one of the most common cosmetic procedures performed today.

In 2001, approximately 220,000 breast augmentations were performed in the United States. Over the years, several different types and styles of implants have been used. Today most physicians performing breast augmentation are using saline implants. These are implants that have a silicone shell and are filled with a saltwater solution known as saline.

There are currently several different methods for inserting and positioning the implants. The incisions can be made either in the crease where the breast meets the chest, beneath the areola, in the armpit or in the belly button. Surgeons over the years have used all these techniques numerous times. All the techniques can be performed safely with equally good results. The method you choose will depend on where you want the incision, as well as which procedure your surgeon feels will give you the best result.

The implants may be placed above or below the chest muscles. Most physicians are currently placing the implants under the muscle (sub-pectoral). The muscle provides an extra layer of padding to give a more natural appearance. In addition, placing the implants under the muscle may decrease the chance of scar tissue formation around the implant (capsular contracture) and also allows for greater ease in reading mammograms. When placing the implants under the muscle, an appropriate pocket must be created so that the breasts will have a nice shape as well as adequate cleavage. When performing the procedure your surgeon may prefer to place temporary implants, called "sizers" within the pocket to determine what size implants will give you the look you desire. These implants are only inserted for a few minutes but often will allow for a more precise result.

With all said, here are a few commonly asked questions about breast augmentation surgery:

Is breast augmentation for me?

During the consultation your surgeon, you have the chance to discuss the goals and expectations of the surgery. The surgeon will asses your breast and body contour and will discuss the outcome of your procedure.

Is the implant safe?

Yes. At this time, there is no evidence that implants would increase the risk of any disease or pre-expose one to any medical condition. A mammogram can be safely performed in women with breast implants. Today, the most common implant used is saline filled. Certain patients are also candidate for silicone filled implants. Both saline and silicone implants have been found to be very safe, although not everyone is a candidate for silicone filled implants.

What is the breast augmentation surgery like?

The procedure is commonly performed at an outpatient surgical facility. The procedure typically takes just over an hour to perform. Most patients recover within 1 to 2 hours after surgery and are discharged home.

What is the recovery from breast augmentation surgery like?

Most women are ambulatory few hours after surgery. It is suggested to rest a few days following the procedure. A post surgical sports bra is worn for several weeks. There is some discomfort and swelling after the surgery. The surgeon prescribes antibiotic and oral pain medication for control of discomfort. Depending on the type of job and level of activity at work, one can go back to work as early as 3 days following surgery.

We also utilize pain pump for speedy and painless recovery.

Can I breast feed after breast augmentation surgery?

Most likely, yes. By placing the implants under the muscle (sub-pectoral), the glandular breast tissue remains intact and the implant will have a more natural look and feel. The vast majority of women can breast feed following a sub-pectoral breast augmentation surgery.

Follow your surgeon's advice on when to resume your normal activities. Frequent postoperative checkups are beneficial to ensure proper healing. Your surgeon should discuss in full detail the steps required both before and after your surgery to attain the best results. This article is only meant to serve as a basic overview of the procedure.

About The Author-- Dave Stringham is the President of LookingYourBest.com an online resource for Los Angeles Breast Augmentation. Learn more about breast enhancement and Los Angeles Breast Augmentation procedures.

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