Breast augmentation is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to enlarge or enhance the shape of a woman’s breasts through the use of artificial breast implants. Women may choose to have breast enlargement surgery either as a reconstructive technique following mastectomy, to balance different sized breasts, or to accentuate the contours of the body. Whatever the specific purpose, women who undergo breast enhancement can expect larger, firmer, and more visually satisfying breasts.
Breast Augmentation Surgery
Breast augmentation, technically known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure to enhance the size and shape of a woman’s breasts. It is performed for a number of reasons:
- To enhance the body contour of a woman who, for personal reasons, feels her breast size is too small.
- To balance the breast size if differences exist.
- To correct a reduction in breast volume after pregnancy.
- Used as a reconstructive technique following breast surgery.
Breast augmentation surgery begins with an incision, made either in the crease of the breast, the armpit, or the perimeter of the areola (the dark skin surrounding the nipple). The placement of the incision will vary according to body type and the specifics of each breast enhancement procedure. The plastic surgeon then creates a pocket for the breast implant; either underneath the breast tissue or under the chest wall muscle. Breast implants can be placed in either location, centered directly behind the nipple. Finally, the original incision is sutured.
After Breast Enlargement
Once the surgical incisions have been closed and taped, the breasts are wrapped and supported by a gauze bandage. Breast augmentation patients are fitted with a surgical bra that provides support for several weeks. Fatigue, soreness, and discomfort are postoperative conditions that are greatly reduced through medication. The swelling that follows breast enhancement surgery gradually subsides and becomes undetectable in one month’s time. Stitches are removed within seven to 10 days following breast augmentation.
Breast Enhancement Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, complications following breast augmentation, although rare, do exist. Capsular contracture (a tightening of the scar or capsule surrounding the breast implants) can occur following a breast augmentation procedure. If this happens, the plastic surgeon either “scores” the scar tissue, or removes the breast implant and re-inserts another. Other breast enhancement complications include excessive bleeding and infection in the area surrounding the implants. Scars may be evident for several months, but they gradually fade. In some cases, the nipples may become hypersensitive or under-sensitive for a period after breast augmentation surgery. In rare instances, the breasts may produce milk for several days after the surgical procedure. To maximize the success of breast enlargement and minimize the risk of complication, always follow your plastic surgeon’s instructions for surgical preparation and postoperative care. It is very important that you choose a qualified and highly experienced plastic surgeon perform your breast augmentation.
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