Breast Augmentation
How Does Breast Augmentation Work?
The surgeon increases or restores your breast size using silicone gel implants, saline implants or, in some cases, fat transfer. Your surgeon will explain what type of implant is best and safest for you.
During the procedure, the surgeon makes incisions in areas of the breast that will minimize visible scarring and inserts or places the implant under the pectoral muscle or directly behind breast tissue - over the muscle- before suturing the incisions. There are several types of implants:
- Saline breast implants are filled with sterile salt water, provide a uniform shape, firmness and feel, and are FDA-approved for augmentation in women age 18 or older.
- Silicone breast implants are filled with silicone gel, which feels a bit more like natural breast tissue. If you choose silicone implants, you may need to visit your surgeon regularly to make sure the implants are functioning properly. These implants are FDA-approved for augmentation in women age 22 or older.
- Form-stable implants, sometimes referred to as gummy bear breast implants, maintain their shape even when the implant shell is broken. The consistency of the silicone gel inside the implant is thicker than traditional silicone gel implants, and they're firmer.
Some women decide to also undergo a breast lift. If you choose this combined procedure, your surgeon will remove some breast tissue, tighten the skin and lift it, and then insert the implant.
What Can I Expect During and After Breast Augmentation?
Your physician will provide you with detailed information about your procedure, but in general:
- During the procedure, you'll either be under sedation and numbed with local anesthesia or under general anesthesia so you won't feel pain as your implants are inserted.
- After your surgery, you will likely experience minimal discomfort- similar to a pulled muscle - which generally resolves over three days.
- Your surgeon will likely recommend you take about a week off from work and refrain from strenuous exercise until you're given the all-clear.
- Incision scars should fade, though you will have some permanent scarring, which your surgeon will hide very well.
Breast Reduction
How Does Breast Reduction Work?
During breast reduction surgery, your surgeon will remove breast fat, glandular tissue and skin to create a more comfortable, proportional breast size, which will improve your posture and decrease back, neck and shoulder pain.
What Can I Expect During and After Breast Reduction?
- Generally, a breast reduction takes about two hours, during which you'll be under general anesthesia - so you won't feel any pain. This is an outpatient procedure, so you will be able to go home the same day.
- Recovery from this major procedure takes time. Your surgeon will prescribe a postoperative care plan for the first few days. Swelling and minor bruising are normal.
- You may need to wear a special surgical bra or elastic bandage as you heal from the procedure.
- You will need to take at least a week off from work and avoid strenuous activity until your surgeon gives you the OK to resume regular activities.
- You will experience scarring - some permanent - but your surgeon will plan incisions that are easily hidden by most clothing and swimsuits.