Breast Implants (Breast Augmentation or Mammoplasty)

A Very Common Cosmetic Surgery Procedure That Can Enhance Or Redefine The Volume, Size Or Shape Of Women’s Breasts.

Since its inception, back in the 60s’, this surgical procedure has now become fairly common. Women who desire better definition, size or have asymmetry (congenital) can usually rely on this procedure to give them consistently good results. Women who’ve had multiple childbirths and have breast-fed can also employ mammoplasty to re-volume the breast—eliminating breast sagging after feeding stops (postpartum) and milk production ceases. Size increases in bust can typically result in one or more bra sizes.

Breast Implant Insertion (incision) Considerations
While the basis for the procedure is fairly standard—that being the insertion of either saline or silicone prosthetic devices (breast implants)—the method of surgically inserting the implants has evolved over the years in an effort to conceal incision/procedural scars. Generally, four methods of insertion are used—TUBA (Transumbilical Breast Augmentation—via an incision in the navel; insertion via the underarm; insertion below the natural crease of the breast; or insertion via the areola pigmentation border.

Breast Implant Placement
The placement of the breast implant is another surgical consideration and can greatly rely on the type of breast implant utilized—anatomical versus standard implant. Generally, when viewing a midsagittal section of the mammary gland, anatomical implants are placed between the pectoralis major (pec or chest muscle) and the lateral side of the intercostal muscles (rib cage muscles). By doing so, the outline of the implant is well hidden below the pec muscle group and appears more natural. Another alternative is to place the implant beneath the lactiferous glandular/adipose tissue region. Commonly called, “above the muscle placement” this location yields a more pronounced effect, but can also appear less natural.

Breast Implant Material And Construction
Two basic material designs exist. They are, cohesive gel implants (silicone gel in a polymer shell), and saline component in a polymer shell. Each offers distinct advantages, and patient considerations. Silicone gel implants generally have a more natural feel, but, in the past have been reported to lead to complications in some women, if they rupture. Saline implants (salt water) don’t have the same feel as silicone (but very similar), but if ruptured for any reason they will be easily absorbed without complications. Generally, silicone implants cost a bit more as well. In construction design, anatomical implants are made in a teardrop shape, offering a natural appearance that flows with the existing breast shape. Regular implants are symmetrical and look less natural. Anatomical implants (see example before and after photos below) usually cost several hundred dollars more than regular implants. You and your surgeon, at the preoperative consult, will decide the size, implant type and placement of the implant.

You can expect to be sore for a few days after the surgery. The degree of discomfort depends on whether the implants are placed under the breast tissue, as described above, or under the breast muscle. Any discomfort can be controlled by pain medication prescribed by your surgeon.