Breast Augmentation
Surgical/Procedure name:Augmentation mammoplasty
Common name:
Breast Augmentation, Boob Job, Breast Implants Surgery
Introduction
Over time, age, genetics, pregnancy, weight changes, sun exposure, and gravity can cause the size and shape of breasts to change. Breast augmentation can help women who are dissatisfied with the size of their breasts, or who have experienced changes in the appearance of their breasts.
It is one of the most common plastic surgery procedures performed today, however you should carefully consider whether breast augmentation is suitable for you before deciding to go ahead. You may ask your surgeon any questions that you may have and he or she will give you guidance and advice to make sure that your choice is fully-informed.
Risks and complications of breast augmentation
As with any surgical procedure there are risks which need to be taken into account before deciding upon breast augmentation surgery. Some of these risks include:
1. Infection
Although infection is rare (1-3%) it can be a very distressing problem. Signs of infection are fever, redness, swelling, and discomfort. If the infection does not respond rapidly to antibiotic treatment, the implant must be removed and the implant can be replaced three (3) months after the wound is completely healed.2. Bleeding
If bleeding occurs into the implant pocket after surgery, the implant must be surgically removed, the bleeding controlled, the wound washed out, and the implant replaced. Signs of bleeding include marked swelling, increasing pain, and severe bruising.3. Capsule contracture
Hardening of the breast with distortion and sometime pain may require a surgical incision of the fibrous scar capsule around the implant (capsulotomy) or partial or total removal of the scar capsule (capsulectomy). The implant can be immediately placed back in the new packet. If capsule contracture occurs multiple times, the patient may decide to remove the implants permanently.4. Asymmetry
Sometimes the implant will slip out of the position in which it was initially placed and appear too high, too low, or to one side. Most of the time this requires surgical repair.5. Problems with Mammography
The implant will block some areas of the breast from being visualized on mammography. This is usually less if the implant is placed under the muscle. Because breast implants might affect the clarity of the mammogram, patients who have multiple close family members with breast cancer probably should not have breast implants..6. Calcifications
Implants that have been in a patient for many years may cause calcifications in the scar capsule around the implant. These calcifications can almost always be distinguished from the calcifications which may indicate breast cancer.7. Deflation
An implant may leak from weakness in the patch or valve area, a hole from incomplete inflation, or other factors. The more modern saline implants have been estimated to leak in 1-5% of cases.8. Cancer
One risk or complication that should be dispelled is that silicone implants can cause cancer. There is absolutely no evidence that silicone implants cause cancer.Pre Operative Care
When assessing the size and placement of the implant our aim is to augment your breasts in proportion with your body and to maintain a natural look. The size and placement of the implant chosen depends on many factors, such as your cup size, your desired cup size, your build, including chest muscle tone.
If you have a small amount of breast tissue and want to augment as much as possible, it is recommended that a large implant is placed below the muscle, in order to prevent the feeling or appearance of the implant. There is also less chance of capsular contracture (hardening).
If you have large chest muscles the implant should be placed above the muscles in order to allow for comfortable movement and a natural look.
For patients with mild to moderate breast sagging, a larger implant placed over the muscle is recommended. This enables a full and natural augmentation.
Inform your surgeon of any allergies, all medical conditions, and any medication that you are taking (both prescription and non-prescription). Avoid aspirin and blood thinning medication such as brufen for two weeks prior to surgery to eliminate the chance of post op. bleeding. You should not smoke for 2 weeks prior to surgery as this may affect your reaction to the anaesthetic and prolong the healing process. Patients that suffer from hypertension must inform the surgeon prior to surgery.
Post Operative Care
All dressings and bandages are removed on the second or third day following the procedure. Afterwards, you are free to bath and shower as usual.
You will be directed by your nurse on the correct procedure and the reasons for breast massage which should be conducted twice a day or as directed by your surgeon.
You will probably be able to resume exercise and normal physical activities within a month or two, after any residual soreness has subsided.
Women that choose silicone implants should have an annual mammogram to ensure that their implants are not leaking, as silicone leaks out slowly unlike saline – which is easier to rupture and will deflate fairly quickly. If there is a leakage or break in the implant, it should be replaced.
Results
Most patients are extremely happy with breast augmentation. There is a certain amount of increased self esteem and self confidence which may result. For many women, including those who may have undergone a mastectomy, child birth or weight loss, you will notice a magnificent improvement and initial scarring will gradually fade.
The patient who desires augmentation should not be influenced by family or friends as to whether or not the surgery should be performed and what size is most desirable. This is a very personal matter to most patients and satisfaction is best when the patient makes the decisions.
In 2000, both Silicone and Saline implants were both approved by U.S. health officials. Implants manufactured by Inamed and Mentor - the two leading marketers of implants - were considered safe and effective for continued use.
What You Should Know Before Breast Augmentation Surgery
The success and safety of your breast augmentation procedure depends very much on your being completely candid during your consultation. You'll be asked a number of questions about your health, desires and lifestyle.Be prepared to discuss:
Your surgeon may also:
Recommended min length of stay in Thailand
10 days.
