Breast augmentation

Breast augmentation, also called breast enhancement, is a surgical procedure designed to increase the size and shape of a woman’s breasts.

What is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation, also called breast enhancement, is a surgical procedure designed to increase the size and shape of a woman’s breasts. Worldwide, it’s the most requested and frequently performed cosmetic surgery for women of all ages.

During breast augmentation, breast implants (in some cases a woman’s own fat), are placed beneath the chest muscles or directly behind the breast tissue. Breast implants can be made with either silicone gel or saline, and each one offers different benefits.

Furthermore, a patient has options in terms of implant shape (round or teardrop) and sizes. All these factors are determined by the patient’s personal preferences, their body shape and which of these are advised by the surgeon for best results.

Why Have Breast Augmentation?

A woman may choose to undergo breast augmentation for several reasons. These include the following:

Enhance the size and shape of the breasts: To improve her self-image a woman may choose to increase her breast size and shape, or to achieve a more youthful profile. Many women seek breast augmentation to make their breasts more proportional to their body.

Correct asymmetry: It’s perfectly normal to have one breast larger than the other. Sometimes the differences are slight or noticeable enough to affect a woman’s confidence and self-esteem. Breast enhancement surgery can improve such breast symmetry in addition to size and shape.

Post weight loss: Losing a significant amount of weight, or sudden weight changes, can cause volume loss or sagging of the breasts. Cosmetic surgery can restore breast fullness, shape and size. Depending on the situation, the surgeon may also choose to perform a breast reduction or a breast lift in combination with breast augmentation.

Post-pregnancy or as part of a Mommy Makeover: Permanent changes to the breasts can occur after pregnancy and breastfeeding. Breast augmentation is the best option to restore the breasts to pre-pregnancy appearance.

FAQ’s

How long do breast implants last?
Breast implants are not permanent. They may need to be replaced every 10-20 years, or you may choose to remove them for personal reasons, or if you’re experiencing complications.

Are the scars visible after breast augmentation?
There will be some scars after surgery; however, they will be very well concealed and barely noticeable once they have healed. The location of the scars will depend on the incision. Some incisions can be made around the areola, in the breast crease or armpit. Your incision will be determined by the surgeon and your unique anatomy.

Can I breastfeed after breast augmentation?
Most women can successfully breastfeed after surgery. In rare cases, complications can arise that make breastfeeding difficult or challenging. Make sure to discuss all your concerns with the surgeon prior to your procedure.

Can breast augmentation be combined with other procedures?
Breast augmentation is often combined with other procedures such as breast reduction (mammoplasty), breast lift (mastopexy) or during a “Mommy Makeover” where breast enhancement and tummy tuck are performed at the same time.

We invite you to book a consultation with one of our expert plastic surgeons to find out if Breast Augmentation is right for you.

Breast Augmentation Quick Facts:

Cost of Breast Augmentation	TBD
Duration of Treatment	1-4 hours
Days of Social Downtime	1-2 weeks
Hospital Stay Required?	No
Stitches Removed	5-7 days

After Surgery:

Downtime and recovery: Each person experiences the recovery period differently. Your unique healing journey will be based on the placement and type of implants, and how quickly your body recuperates after surgery. Below are some general guidelines for what you can expect:

1-2 Days Post-Op: Breast augmentation is an outpatient procedure, and you will be discharged and cleared to go home after 2-3 hours of observation. You will wake up from surgery with your breasts wrapped in bandages and wearing a special surgical bra to provide support and minimize swelling during your recovery.

You may experience some pain, swelling and discomfort, and you will be prescribed pain medication to keep you comfortable. Make sure to get lots of rest during this time. Avoid strenuous activities such as heavy lifting, performing sudden movement and generally straining your chest muscles.

3-7 Days Post-Op: Pain and swelling will continue to decrease, keep taking your medication as needed. Your surgeon may recommend performing gentle arm exercises to avoid stiffness and to assist with healing. You will need to wear the bra for the next six weeks, except when bathing. You will be advised when transitioning to a soft, wireless bra is possible.

What to Expect Before Surgery:

Follow pre-operative instructions: You will be provided with detailed pre-operative instructions by your surgeon. These may include avoiding medications that promote bleeding, making sure you have all the medications you’ll need post-operatively and when to stop eating and drinking the night before.

Wear the right clothing: Choose comfortable, loose-fitting clothing such as button-up tops or dresses. Avoid wearing clothes that require raising your arms to be put on and removed.

Arrange for help: You will need someone to pick you up from the clinic or hospital and take you home. You may also need help getting to your first post-operative appointment in 5-7 days.

How to Prepare for Breast Augmentation

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Do your research

A consultation and medical evaluation with a qualified Plastic Surgeon is the first step in preparing for Breast Augmentation. During your initial meeting you can learn more about the procedure, discuss your concerns, treatment objectives and whether you’re a good candidate for the surgery. You can also discuss possible risks and complications, and the recovery process.

Choose the right implants

During your consultation your surgeon will present you with various implant options, including implant type (silicone vs. saline), shape (round vs. teardrop) and size. Based on your body type and desired outcome, your surgeon will recommend the right implant for you. If you decide to proceed with the surgery, the following recommendations will help you get through surgery with minimal complications and ensure the best outcome possible:

Quit Smoking

If you’re a smoker it’s best to quit smoking at least six weeks in advance. Nicotine and other chemicals in tobacco can constrict blood vessels and impair your body’s ability to heal adequately post surgery.

Lose excess weight

Losing or gaining a significant amount of weight after surgery can affect your breasts’ appearance in unexpected ways. For this reason, it’s best to achieve your ideal body weight prior to the procedure.

ELEGIBILITY Who is a Good Candidate

The ideal candidate is someone whose breasts have been irreversibly altered post-pregnancy. She has thoroughly researched the procedure and feels it’s the right decision after meeting with a qualified medical professional. Here are some other factors to consider:

Good overall health: A woman should be in excellent health and a non-smoker. This includes having a healthy body weight with no serious physical conditions (such as breast cancer) that could affect the outcome or be a contraindication to surgery and general anesthesia.

Breasts have reached maturity: A woman’s breasts should be fully developed before performing this type of surgery. This could mean waiting until she is in her late teens or early 20’s. Ultimately, it’s up to the surgeon’s discretion to ensure the safety of the patient.

Finished having children: Breastfeeding following breast augmentation is considered safe and possible. Keep in mind, however, that subsequent pregnancies and breastfeeding can potentially affect the breasts and their appearance, requiring revision surgeries in the future.

Have realistic expectations: Breast augmentation can improve a woman’s breasts, overall appearance and confidence. There are limitations, however, to the size of the implants based on a woman’s own frame and body weight. A positive attitude and knowing what to expect ahead of time can ensure she is happy with the results.

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