Breast Augmentation
Also known as augmentation mammaplasty, breast augmentation is one of the most common plastic surgery procedures. Common reasons for breast augmentation surgery include a desire to increase the size of small or underdeveloped breasts, correct asymmetry problems, or to restore breast volume lost after weight reduction or pregnancy.
There are two common types of breast implants. Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water, and can be filled at the time of surgery. Silicone implants are filled with soft, elastic gel and are pre-filled. There are several different incisions that are possible to use for breast augmentation that Dr. Loghmanee and Dr. Cerio will discuss with you. The size and type of implant recommended for you will be determined by body shape, your breast tissue, and the goals you and Dr. Loghmanee or Dr. Cerio discuss.
Am I a good candidate for breast augmentation?
One or more of the following may indicate you are a good candidate for breast augmentation;
- Your breasts are fully developed and you are in good physical condition
- You are bothered by the feeling that your breasts are too small
- You are unhappy with the shape or volume of your breasts due to weight loss, aging, or pregnancy
- Clothing that fits well around the hips and waist are often too large at the bust
- You feel self-conscious wearing revealing clothing such as a swimsuit or form-fitting top
- One of your breasts is noticeably smaller than the other, or one or both breasts failed to develop normally
Dr. Cerio and Dr. Loghmanee will conduct an examination and discuss with you your desired breast size and expected outcome and determine whether your desires can realistically be achieved. You must come prepared to discuss your full medical history, including any medical conditions, previous surgeries or treatments, family history of breast cancer, drug allergies, current medications, and use of alcohol, tobacco or illegal substances.
Considerations with breast augmentation:
Breast Cancer: There is no scientific proof that breast augmentation increases your cancer risk. However, breast implants do make it more difficult to acquire thorough mammograms. This may be a special consideration for women who have a higher risk of breast cancer.
Weight Loss: If you are planning to lose a significant amount of weight, be sure to inform your surgeon. He will likely recommend you achieve your weight-loss goals prior to surgery.
Pregnancy: It is also important to inform your surgeon if you are considering having children in the future. Pregnancy can cause unpredictable breast changes and could affect your breast augmentation. Breast implants do not affect pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Surgery and Recovery
Breast Augmentation is an outpatient surgery, usually performed with general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. After a few hours of recovery you will be permitted to go home. Your breasts will be wrapped in gauze dressings or a surgical bra. You will be given detailed information from Dr. Cerio and Dr. Loghmanee detailing normal symptoms, signs of complications and instructions for recovery.
You should be able to walk and be up and about immediately following surgery. Your breasts will be stiff and tender to the touch for the first few days, and you must not lift, pull or push anything and not engage in any strenuous activity for at least two weeks. Dressings will be removed within several days and you may be required to wear a supportive garment. Stitches are usually absorbable and disappear by the first few weeks. Swelling and discoloration may occur but resolve within about a month.Dr. Loghmanee and Dr. Cerio will recommend follow up visits to evaluate your healing process. It is important to follow doctor’s orders for the best outcome.