Breast Augmentation

breasaugmentationBreast augmentation (also known as a “boob job”) is a surgical procedure that enhances the size and shape of a woman’s breasts. More specifically, it involves using implants to create fuller breasts or restore volume lost after weight reduction, aging or pregnancy. While a breast augmentation will make the breasts larger, the surgery will not move the breasts closer together or lift sagging breasts. However, breast augmentation is a tremendous help to patients who desire a fuller profile.

An outpatient surgery center in Los Angeles, La Peer Health Systems is staffed by an elite group of board-certified plastic surgeons with specialized training in surgical techniques that are minimally invasive. Our goal is to provide patients with minimal scarring and a quicker recovery along with the best patient care from pre-op to post-op and everything in between. If you are interested in breast augmentation or another cosmetic surgery procedure, don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation.

 

REASONS TO CONSIDER BREAST AUGMENTATION

There are various reasons to have a breast augmentation. Some common reasons women opt to undergo breast surgery include:

  • Enhancing body shape if breasts are perceived as too small
  • Increasing breast volume after pregnancy and nursing
  • Equalizing a difference in breast size (cup size) to gain breast symmetry
  • Reconstructing breasts following a mastectomy or injury

If you have been considering a breast augmentation and want to see if you are a good candidate, don’t hesitate to contact our breast plastic surgery specialists today.

BREAST ENHANCEMENT FOR MINIMAL SCARRING

The surgeons in La Peer’s Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Department utilize minimally invasive techniques and place their incisions in inconspicuous areas to reduce the visibility of scars. During a consultation, you and your plastic surgeon will discuss which incision options are appropriate for your desired outcome. Incision options include:

  • Inframammary incision, which is located under the breast
  • Transaxillary incision, which is located in the armpit area
  • Periareolar incision, which is placed around the perimeter of the areola
  • Trans-umbilical incision, which is placed in the belly button

Incisions vary based on the type of implant, degree of enlargement desired, your particular anatomy, and patient-surgeon preference.

UNDERGOING BREAST AUGMENTATION

You will be under general anesthesia or local anesthesia and sedation during breast augmentation surgery and will not experience any pain or discomfort. Based on the implant option selected (saline vs. silicone), the implant will be inserted in the pocket under the pectoral muscle or directly behind the breast tissue over the pectoral muscle. Both the implant type and insertion point depend on the degree of enlargement desired, body type, skin elasticity and breast anatomy. In general, breast augmentation takes anywhere from 1-3 hours. Most patients can leave our outpatient center just a few hours after having surgery.

BREAST AUGMENTATION RESULTS

The results of breast augmentation surgery are immediately visible. Over time, post-surgical swelling will resolve and incision lines will fade, making your desired results more visible over time.

POST-OPERATIVE CARE AND BREAST AUGMENTATION RECOVERY

Generally, post-operative instructions for breast augmentation patients include plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and recovery time. Bandages are applied right after surgery to aid the healing process and to minimize movement of the breasts.  Once the bandages are removed, a specialized surgical bra will need to be worn for several weeks.  Patients sometimes report minor pain associated with the surgery.  This pain can be treated effectively with oral medication. While complications are rare, patients can minimize potential problems by following the directions given by your physician after surgery carefully. In general, patients can return to work and other activities within just a few days.

BREAST AUGMENTATION FAQS

Q: How long does breast augmentation surgery take?
A: Because each patient is unique, the surgery time for breast implants can vary due to the type of implant and technique used. However, a normal surgery without any problems or complications shouldn’t take more than three hours.

Q: Can you breastfeed with breast implants?
A: Yes! Breastfeeding after breast augmentation is completely safe and shouldn’t present any complications to yourself or your infant. There are many misconceptions about breastfeeding with implants, but our board-certified plastic surgeons are here to address your concerns.

Q: What is the difference between silicone implants and saline implants?
A: Saline and silicone breast implants both have an outer silicone shell, but the implants differ in material and consistency. Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water. They’re inserted empty, and then filled once they are in place. Silicone implants are pre-filled with a silicone gel that look and feel more like human breast tissue.

Q: What can be done to minimize the scars caused by breast implants?
A: Our surgeons can discuss with you different incision and treatment techniques that can reduce the amount of scarring. Additionally, our doctors will provide post-operative instructions and an after-care regimen that will include topical solutions and antibiotics to help with scarring.

Q: Do breast implants affect mammograms?
A: While breast implants may make a mammogram more difficult to read, mammography facilities examine women with breast implants on a daily basis and can take certain steps to ensure that as much breast tissue as possible can be seen on the mammogram. It is important to inform the mammography technician and radiologist about your implants so they can perform the mammogram properly.

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT BREAST AUGMENTATION SURGERY

We are fully staffed and trained to assist you in achieving the breasts you’ve desired. Contact La Peer Health Systems to schedule an initial consultation and learn more about your breast surgery options. We can be reached at 855.360.9119.

You can also learn more about our breast surgery services at the Breast Surgery Center of Excellence, a website devoted entirely to breast surgery!

Next, read about Breast Augmentation Revision.