What Is A Breast Enlargement (Breast Augmentation)?

Breast augmentation is intended to give the patient larger and more attractive breasts.

How Long Is The Surgery And How Big Is The Incision?

Breast Augmentation takes 1-2 hours. It is done on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. A small incision is made around the areola (Areolar), under the breast (Inframammary), under the arm (Axillary) or through the umbilicus (Trans-umblical).

How About Breast Implants And Their Placement?

A saline filled or silicone filled breast implant is inserted in a pocket created under the breast tissue (Submammary) or under the muscle (Submuscular). The pros and cons of either approach are discussed with the surgeon during the consultation visit.

How Would I Know Which Size Is Best Suited For Me?

After performing careful measurements to your breasts, your surgeon will be able to discuss with you the size that best suits you. With his help, the appropriate volume and the “profile” of the implant can be determined.

Are There Any Complications That Pertain To Breast Augmentation Surgery?

Yes. Asymmetry, loss of nipple sensation, inability to breast feed, capsular contractures (tight scar around the implant) as well as complications related to the implant itself such as a leak or rupture have been reported. Their incidence is variable and in part related to the type of implant, position, size, age of the implant and the technique of the surgeon.

When Would The Sutures Be Removed? How About Drains?

No sutures need to be removed since I use dis-solvable sutures to close the wound. I do not usually use suction drains in primary breast augmentations.

Do I Need To Wear A Bra And For How Long?

The patient is sent home the same day in a sport bra. The bra helps hold the breasts together maintaining the cleavage and keep the breasts in the correct position. Patients are required to wear the bra for 4-6 weeks.

How About Recovery And Down Time?

Initial discomfort is controlled with oral medication. I see the patient on the following day in my office. Breast massages should be started in one week. More strenuous activity is allowed in 4 to 6 weeks. Patients can go back to work in one week. Light activities can be resumed as tolerated and aerobic activities can be started in about 3 weeks. It takes around 2 months for the new breast to assume a natural look and for the implants to descend into the desired position. At this point the breasts will look and feel soft like a normal breast. Scars take 6 months to 2 years to flatten and fade away.

Can I Have Other Procedures Combined With My Breast Augmentation Surgery?

In certain patients with droopiness, breast lift (Mastopexy) may be necessary to correct the associated sagginess. Breast Procedures can also be combined with tummy tuck surgery as long as the patient’s health allows.

***The specific risks and the suitability of this procedure for a given individual can be determined only at the time of your consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are unusual.

Now that you know more about our Breast Enlargement procedure, continue to our Breast Lift page.

Breast Enlargement

Before and After Photos

Breast Enlargement before and after pictures.