Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is probably one of the most difficult and underestimated of all plastic surgical operations. It is a very commonly performed procedure. Women of all ages, from teenagers to women in their 70s, are candidates for breast implant surgery. Needless to say, younger patients are much more commonly candidates for augmentation alone. Older patients typically require a breast lift (mastopexy) in conjunction with breast augmentation. One of the difficulties with this operation is that no two breasts are exactly alike; all women have slightly asymmetric breasts. They are asymmetric with respect to size, shape, position on the chest wall, nipple size, and projection. It is the job of Dr. Michael Bain to augment the breasts and improve symmetry in the process. This can be a challenge, especially when nipple position is very different.
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a procedure that involves the use of breast implants. Both saline and silicone breast implants are available to increase the size and fullness of the breasts. It is a common procedure among women who want to improve the size and shape of their breasts or restore fullness after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss.
Before undergoing breast augmentation, it is important for patients to have a thorough consultation with Michael Bain, MD to discuss their goals and expectations. The plastic surgeon will assess the patient’s breast tissue, skin elasticity, and overall health to determine whether breast augmentation is the appropriate treatment.
There are several different types of breast implants that can be used in breast augmentation surgery, including saline implants, silicone implants, and “gummy bear” implants. The type of implant used will depend on the patient’s individual characteristics and the desired result. Round, smooth, textured, and cohesive gel implants are all options.
Breast augmentation is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes one to two hours to complete. There are several different techniques that can be used for breast augmentation, including the periareolar technique, the inframammary technique, and the transaxillary technique. The technique used will depend on the patient’s individual characteristics and the desired result.
Breast Implant Surgery Techniques
Periareolar technique involves an incision made around the edge of the areola. This technique is suitable for patients with small breasts or minimal sagging and is not ideal for those with larger breasts or significant sagging.
Inframammary technique involves an incision made in the crease under the breast fold. This technique is suitable for patients with any size or shape of breast and allows for the most control over implant placement and contour.
Transaxillary technique involves an incision made in the armpit. This technique is suitable for patients with minimal sagging and allows for the least visible scarring.
Post Plastic Surgery – Breast Augmentation Recovery
After the cosmetic surgery procedure, the patient will need to wear a special surgical bra to support the breasts and promote healing. Pain, swelling, and bruising are common after breast augmentation surgery, and patients may need to take pain medication and avoid certain activities for the first few weeks to allow proper healing.
The results of breast augmentation surgery are typically long-lasting, although implants may need to be replaced or removed at some point in the future due to complications or changes in the patient’s individual characteristics. To maintain results, patients should maintain a stable weight, avoid significant fluctuations, and protect their skin from sun exposure.
There are several potential risks and complications associated with breast augmentation, including scarring, changes in nipple sensation, and breast asymmetry. It is important for patients to discuss these risks with their breast augmentation surgeon and carefully follow all post-operative care instructions to minimize complications.
Overall, breast augmentation surgery can be a highly effective procedure for increasing the size, appearance, and fullness of the breasts and improving shape and symmetry. In addition to physical benefits, many patients report improved self-confidence and body image after the procedure. It is important to thoroughly research and consider all options before deciding on surgery.
Schedule a consultation with this board-certified plastic surgeon today.
Location of Scar from Breast Implants
Incisions can be made under the breast, around the lower half of the nipple, in the armpit, and in the belly button. Dr. Bain is able to use any of these approaches. His preference is to avoid scarring on the breast, and he has found the transaxillary approach (armpit incision) to be a great way to achieve this. Dr. Bain prefers the armpit incision over the belly button incision because it provides more control over the operation. The periareolar incision is also another method of a hidden scar on the breast itself at the interface between the areola and the breast.
Breast Implant Type: Saline vs Silicone
Saline breast implants are filled with sterile saltwater and are typically less expensive than silicone implants. They can be adjusted more easily after the procedure and have a lower risk of complications such as leakage or rupture. However, saline implants may feel less natural and have a higher risk of rippling or wrinkling.
Silicone implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel that is similar in consistency to human fat. They tend to look and feel more natural and have a lower risk of rippling or wrinkling. However, silicone implants are more expensive and have a higher risk of complications such as leakage or rupture. If a silicone implant ruptures, it may not be immediately noticeable and may require additional surgery to remove or replace the implant.
Implant options include round and teardrop (anatomical or contoured) shapes. Both implants come in a variety of sizes and profiles. One patient may choose a particular implant shape over another depending on personal aesthetic preferences, incision site, and implant placement. The decision is also influenced by unique anatomy, including body type, chest wall shape, and existing breast tissue. Both implant types are FDA approved and considered safe. It is important for patients to discuss the pros and cons of each type with their surgeon to determine the best option for their needs and goals.
Are you a candidate for breast implants? Schedule a consultation in our medical office for a breast augmentation in Newport Beach, CA with board-certified plastic surgeon Michael Bain, MD serving the Orange County, CA area. For a natural look and feel, call today. If you have questions about augmentation procedures, advantages and disadvantages of implants, treatment plans, profile, volume, cost, rippling, scars, implant pocket, discomfort, muscle placement, implant replacement, implant size, or other concerns, speak with our doctor.
Schedule a Breast Augmentation Consultation
Michael Bain, MD offers other services and procedures such as liposuction, revision surgery, facelift surgery, mastopexy, reduction mammoplasty, mommy makeover surgery, tummy tuck, and breast reconstruction.
