Breast Augmentation
The operation is usually performed when the breast reaches its final size after puberty (ages 17-18). Except for cases when there is congenital breast hypoplasia, or breast asymmetry, in which it can be performed at an earlier stage.
There are three possible sites for the insertion of an implant. The lower fold of the breast is the most common site. It allows full excess and leaves a hidden scar. The second site is through the areola. This incision gives the best esthetic results but it is also the only one that goes through the breast tissue, therefore the risk of infection and sensation loss is higher. The third one is through the armpits. Some surgeons prefer the latter, because the scar is almost invisible (except for women who like to wear light sleeveless clothes). The disadvantage of this incision is a slight asymmetry of the breast. The decision is usually made individually, with each woman and her surgeon.
The implant can be inserted above or below the chest muscles. The below position is preferred by most surgeons. With such positioning, it is less likely to feel the implant, a smaller chance of developing irregular folds or bumps on the surface of the breast, and the implant is less likely to drop. This kind of technique is suitable for women with relatively little extra skin and less fallen breasts.
Most implants are made of silicon. Since the FDA determined that these implants are safe for use, it is being widely used by most surgeons.
The implants come in two shapes: round and pear-shape, also called "anatomic implants", because their shape resembles the natural contour of the breast. They are more expensive and require larger excision.
The size of an implant usually depends on the woman's size and proportions. The average size is 300cc. It is believed that smaller implants bear lower complications.
After the surgery you'll be wearing a sports bra or a bandage. You'll continue wearing it at all times, day and night, for about a month. You'll be able to take a shower 24 hours after the surgery. The optimal results are usually seen 3 month after the surgery.
Several factors may complicate this procedure. Such complications are rare, and you should be aware of them: Bleeding around the area of the implant, infection, disturbances of sensation and touch around the nipples, silicon leak, rejection off an implant and some degree of irregularity on the surface of an implant.
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