Introduction
Breast augmentation, also known as breast enlargement or augmentation mammoplasty, is one of the most common plastic surgery procedures performed today. Over time, factors such as age, genetics, pregnancy, weight changes, sun exposure, and gravity can cause the size and shape of the breast to change. Women who are dissatisfied with the size of their breasts, or have experienced changes in breast appearance can achieve a fuller, shapelier breast with breast augmentation. During breast augmentation, a breast implant is placed inside a pocket formed in the breast tissue. This can help to increase or balance the size of the breast, restore breast volume, or restore the shape of the breast after partial or total loss. It is important to realise that breast augmentation cannot correct significantly sagging or drooping breasts. In these instances, a breast lift is often necessary, which may be performed in conjunction with this procedure.
Implant Options
Silicone implants are made of a silicone rubber shell and are filled with silicone gel. There is no significant evidence that suggests silicone implants increase your risk for breast cancer, connective tissue disorders, or autoimmune disease. Modern silicone implants are far superior to saline implants in terms of feel, shape and longevity. It is for these reasons that silicone implants represent by far the majority of implants used for breast augmentation in Australia today.
The implants available differ in shape, texture, profile, width, height and volume. The type, style, and size of breast implants you choose are determined by your lifestyle, body contours, the amount of breast tissue you have, and the cup size and appearance that you would like to achieve. Dr Miroshnik will spend over an hour with you, on your first consultation, to determine which implant is best for you.
What Gives the Breast its Shape?
The breast consists of glands and milk ducts, surrounded by fatty tissue which provides its shape and soft form. The elasticity of your skin also contributes to its shape. As you know, certain factors such as age and pregnancy can affect the elasticity of your skin and breast tissue, which results in changes to shape and appearance.
Breast implants can be placed in two general locations, known as submuscular and subglandular placement. Submuscular placement refers to an implant that is placed partially or completely beneath the pectoralis muscle, against the chest wall. In contrast, subglandular placement refers to an implant that is placed beneath the breast tissue, but above the pectoralis muscle. Dr Miroshnik will help you determine the implant placement location that is best for you.
Step 1
Breast augmentation/breast enlargement procedures typically last approximately 1 to 2 hours. Prior to the start of your procedure the treatment area will be thoroughly cleansed and an anaesthetic will be administered. Usually, this is a general anaesthetic, in which you are asleep for the entire procedure.
The inframammary incision is placed below the crease of the lower portion of the breast. A single, small incision is made along each breast. Using an instrument known as a retractor, Dr Miroshnik will open the incision in order to gain better access to the breast tissue below. Although the incision will be made as inconspicuously as possible, its length and appearance may vary depending on the type and size of implant and your body contours.
Step 2
Dr Miroshnik will carefully separate the breast tissue with a minimally invasive cautery device and a scalpel, in order to reach the area of the breast in which the pocket will be formed. The pocket is then gently created to fit the chosen implant in the desired plane.
This illustration shows a subglandular pocket.
Step 3
Dr Miroshnik will then insert the implants into their pockets and visually inspect your breasts to ensure that they are symmetric. This may involve sitting you up, while you are asleep, to see how the implants look under the influence of gravity.
If required, the pocket may then need to be adjusted to ensure the desired look is achieved.
Step 4
The incisions will then be closed using sutures in the breast tissue. All sutures used are self-dissolving so there is no need to remove any of them during subsequent postoperative visits. The scars from the incisions will fade slowly over several months, but it may take up to a year for them to refine completely. As with any surgery, you will most likely experience some pain and swelling afterwards. The majority of the swelling will likely subside within a few days. However, some swelling may persist for several weeks.
Compression Garment Overview
Dr Miroshnik will place you in a special bra or compression garment to aid in the healing process. Compression garments provide support and comfort, minimize swelling, and help to maintain the position of the implants.
Summary
You will most likely be able to return to work within three to seven days after your procedure. However, it is important that you avoid any strenuous activity and lifting for approximately four weeks. Doing so may delay healing and could damage the implants. You will be able to notice the final results from your procedure once the implants have settled and the swelling has subsided completely.
It is important to realise that your breasts will continue to change shape over time. However, the results from breast augmentation are typically long-lasting, which means that your breasts will maintain the fuller, shapelier appearance that you desire for years to come.
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