Breast Augmentation and Reduction
WHAT IS BREAST AUGMENTATION?
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure intended to increase the size and improve the shape of the breasts involving minimal incision and insertion of breast implants. It enhances body shape, balance breast irregularities or reconstruct tissue following surgery.
IS BREAST AUGMENTATION SAFE? IS IT TRUE THAT IT EVENTUALLY LEADS TO BREAST CANCER?
There has been no scientific evidence that proves that breast augmentation leads to breast cancer or that it increases the risk of developing such. If performed by a skilled, well-experienced and qualified surgeon and the patient is in good physical condition, this procedure is safe and rewarding.
HOW CAN APPROPRIATE BREAST SIZE BE DETERMINED PRIOR THE SURGERY?
Choosing the right implant size is a decision that the patient and Dra. Montesa make based on personal preferences, weight, height, body built and shape, breast contour and original breasts size.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT KINDS OF IMPLANT?
Breast implants consist of two types: a silicone gel and a saline-filled solution. World’s leading manufacturers of implants are Inamed Aesthetics, Mentor and McGhan. The patient has the option of having texture-surfaced implants or smooth-surfaced implants. Both have their advantages and disadvantages which Dra. Montesa discusses with the patient.
DO IMPLANTS LEAK AND BREAK EASILY?
No, specially those made by the leading manufacturers mentioned earlier. Implants are made to take a lot of pressure making it impossible to break by mere squeezing and active lifestyle. The implant may get broken if a sharp object accidentally got injected into it (i.e. needle), or if impacted by an enormous force in an instant (such as car accident). However, rate of occurrence is very low at about 5/1000 to 7/1000.
HOW IS THE PROCEDURE DONE?
Breast augmentation is an out-patient procedure which takes about 2 to 3 hours under general or local anesthesia with sedation. Incisions are done in either the peri-areolar (through the nipple and areola), infra-mammary (just under the breast in the crease where it meets the chest wall) or axillary (armpit) location. Pockets are then created wherein the implants are inserted and placed under the muscles (sub-pectoral) or under the breasts (sub-mammary).
WHICH INCISION AND PLACEMENT APPROACHES ARE SO FAR THE BEST?
Incision and placement approaches are greatly dependent on the original breast size, weight and preferences of the patient which shall be discussed and agreed upon during the consultation.
WILL THERE BE ANY VISIBLE SCAR?
Incisions will be nearly invisible once the healing is completed.
WHAT IS RECOVERY LIKE?
There will be swelling, minimal bruising and mild to moderate pain. The breasts will be tender and feel tight. Nipple sensation is temporarily reduced but should return to normal after a couple of weeks. A surgical support bra has to be worn for a week. Prescribed antibiotics and pain relievers shall be taken to prevent infection, reduce the swelling and address the discomfort.
HOW SOON CAN A PATIENT GO BACK TO WORK?
Much of the swelling is resolved in about 5 to 7 days making it possible for the possible to go back to work. However, for those with strenuous job, it may take 3 to 4 weeks.
HOW SOON CAN RESULTS BE SEEN?
Significant improvement can be seen right after the surgery. When the majority of the swelling and bruising is gone by the 2nd week, the breasts will start to look and feel more natural. The final result will be evident at 3 to 6 months when all the swelling has resolved.
IS IT STILL POSSIBLE TO BREASTFEED AFTER BREAST AUGMENTATION?
Yes. With sub-muscular placement of the implants, there should be no interference whatsoever with breastfeeding.
WHAT OTHER PROCEDURE IS COMMONLY DONE SIMULTANEOUS WITH BREAST AUGMENTATION?
If the patient has extremely sagging breasts, breast lift and liposuction are usually done along with breast augmentation.
WHO ARE THE CANDIDATES FOR THIS PROCEDURE?
Good candidates for this procedure are those who are generally healthy, emotionally and psychologically stable, with realistic expectations, and want to correct the following:
- Intrinsically or extrinsically underdeveloped breasts
- Shrunk or droopy breasts due to aging or pregnancy
- Asymmetrical breasts in terms of shapes and sizes
- Well-developed breasts needing further enhancement
Candidates are advised to disclose their medical history, illness and medications during the consultation.
WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS?
Complications are very rare with this procedure making it one of the most popular procedures with more than 90% approval rating. Occasional risks include asymmetry, nerve injury, implant hardening, bleeding, unfavorable scarring and infection.