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Breast augmentation, also known as breast enlargement and augmentation mammoplasty, is a procedure designed to enhance the shape and size of the breasts using a breast implant. Breast augmentation may be performed to enlarge the size of small breasts, create a balance between different breast sizes, restore breast volume after pregnancy or weight loss, or to reconstruct the breast following cancer surgery. Candidates for breast augmentation should be physically healthy and realistic in their expectations.
There are several different kinds of breast implants. All implants have a silicone plastic shell, but are filled with either liquid silicone gel or saline (salt water). They can be high, medium or low profile. They can be smooth or have texture. They can be round or 'anatomic' (tear drop). Dr. Light can guide you in selecting the optimum implant for your needs.
Breast Augmentation is done under the care of a board-certified anesthesiologist with either local anesthesia and sedation or general anesthesia. The procedure itself typically takes between one and two hours to perform. Breast augmentation may be performed through different incisions, with the three most common being around the areola, underneath the breast, and in the armpit. Once the incisions are made, the breast tissue is lifted and a pocket is created for insertion of the implant. The implant may be placed either underneath the breast tissue itself or underneath the pectoral muscle. The implants are then centered beneath the nipples and the incisions are closed.
Patients can expect to experience some discomfort after the procedure. Prescription pain medication is provided to help control this discomfort. A support bra or sports bra should be worn for about four weeks. Though the breasts will appear unusually high in the first few weeks after surgery, they will eventually settle into place. Bruising and swelling can occur, and the swelling will fade within three to five weeks. Most patients are able to return to work and other normal activities within a few days, though physical contact with the breasts should be avoided for three to four weeks.
The potential complications associated with breast augmentation include: adverse anesthesia reactions, bleeding, capsular contracture, changes in nipple or breast sensation, implant deflation or rupture, infection, mammography interference, and implant replacement or removal. These complications are rare and satisfaction with breast augmentation is very high.
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