Breast Enlargement, technically called augmentation mammoplasty remains one of the most common cosmetic procedures performed. An implant is placed behind the breast tissue to enhance the size and shape of the breast. Usually performed under general anesthesia, a breast implant is inserted either behind the breast tissue or behind the pectoralis muscle.
There are two primary types of implants: silicone gel and saline filled implants. Saline implants are more commonly used because the implant can go in empty and be filled once inside the body. This is the preferred method because the incision and following scar is smaller and less noticeable. However, some surgeons believe silicone gel implants are less prone to rippling or wrinkling and prefer using this type when a patient has very little breast tissue to begin with. During your initial consultation with your surgeon, the advantages and disadvantages of each type of implant will be discussed. And, together with your surgeon, the appropriate type of implant will be selected.
There are a few different techniques surgeons use for making the incision for inserting the implant. Incisions can be made underneath the fold of the breast, around the lower part of the areola, or by making the incision at the underarm area. Again, advantages and disadvantages will be discussed with you during consultation.
Nearly all cosmetic procedures involve post procedure swelling and bruising. During this period, the implants may appear firm and high for the first 48 hours. Recovery times depend on a few factors; whether the implant is over or under the muscle, where the incision was made, the size of the implant, and what body type the patient has. Initial recovery is generally only a few days. Strenuous activities should be limited for the first few weeks.
*Yanhee International Hospital uses NATRELLETM silicon and saline implants. Allergan’s NATRELLETM collection offers women the widest range of safe and high quality breast implant options. Ranging from different fillers, surfaces, shapes, and profiles, Allergan is committed to leading the field in research and development of breast aesthetics.
Breast Augmentation FAQs
Q: I have heard that after a woman has breast augmentation performed, she can no longer breast feed. Is this true?
A: This is a very common question among breast augmentation candidates. Assuming your breast milk would adequately feed an infant prior to the procedure, yes you should be able to breast feed a child. It is important to discuss this with your surgeon because the incision should not be made under the areola. Instead, the implant should be inserted either through the armpit or under the fold of the breast.
Q: Am I too old for breast Augmentation?
A: For all you ladies in your 40's and 50's, there is good news. You can never be too old to enjoy your body! Your only regret may be that you waited this long to have the procedure performed.
Uneven Breast Size
Q: My breasts are extremely uneven. One is an A/B cup, and the other is a B/C cup. This is partly due to an uneven breast bone and partly because I have less tissue in one breast. I am interested in breast implants but am concerned that it will only exaggerate my problem. What can I do?
A: Uneven breast are more common than most people think. Fortunately, for those with uneven chests, breast augmentation can bring excellent results. Implants themselves can be of different size as well as the pockets they occupy be in different locations. Another option would be reducing the size of the larger breast through a reduction mammoplasty procedure.
Q: What is capsular contracture and what happens if I suffer from this condition post surgery?
A: Capsular contracture is the hardening of internal scar tissue. You will be educated in proper massage techniques that should minimize the problem. Antibiotics or Vitamin E may also be used to deter the problem. In serious cases, studies have shown that taking the asthma drug Accolate twice a day for three to six months can soften existing complications. In extreme cases the breast implant should be removed or replaced.
Sub Muscular Placement
Q: Would placing the implant under the muscle (sub muscular) provide a more natural looking breast?
A: In very thin patients, a sub muscular or sub pectoral implant may look more natural and rippling may be less noticeable. A sub glandular implant would look more natural in a patient with a higher degree of ptosis (drooping) or a woman with more breast tissue.
Loss of Nipple Sensation
Q: I have heard rumors that women experience a loss of sensation in the nipple following breast augmentation, is this true?
A: These rumors are unsupported by patients. Most doctors will agree that loss of sensation in the nipple is minimal. Usually less than a 10 percent loss of feeling is normal. In most cases even a small loss of sensation goes unnoticed.
Increasing Size Without Surgery
Q: I have very small breasts. My cup size is less than an A. I have tried everything from herbal formulas to gaining weight to increase the size. Is there any way to increase my bust size without surgery?
A: Unfortunately, there is no proven way to significantly increase bust size without surgery. There is a suction device that may stimulate blood flow and marginally increase cup size, but is most effective on making large breasts even larger.
Q: I have heard about implants going in through the umbilical/naval, resulting in no scarring around the breast area. Is this a preferred method, or should I go with a more conventional method?
A: It is more difficult for a surgeon to make an even pocket for both implants when using this method. This can lead to uneven breasts following the surgery. Most prefer an incision site closer to the breast.
Silicone Implants Illegal
Q: Why are silicone gel implants illegal in the United States?
A: Silicone gel implants are not illegal for women replacing their existing silicone gel implant or those undergoing breast reconstructive surgeries. However, silicone gel implants are no longer available to women seeking augmentation for the first time.