To many, being a woman means having full breasts. This strong cultural influence can be clearly seen in modern fashion, where clothes are designed to accentuate and call attention to women’s breasts and cleavage.

Many women grow up dreaming about shapely breasts only to feel shortchanged by nature. Not having the breasts you want can be a source of unhappiness. Fortunately, breast augmentation can now safely and effectively offer you what you want.

Most breast augmentation surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Some physicians may give you the option of local anesthesia combined with intravenous sedation. This is something you and your doctor can discuss.

About the Procedure

Breast implants are comprised of an outer silicone shell filled with either sterile saline “salt water” solution or silicone gel. In November 2007, after extensive study by the FDA, silicone gel implants were re-approved for use. Approximately 90% of our patients choose silicone gel implants for breast augmentation.

During the procedure, the surgeon will create a “pocket,” either directly beneath your breast tissue, or underneath the pectoral chest muscle. The implants are then inserted into the pocket and centered behind your nipples.

The incision can be made in the crease where the breast meets the chest, on the undersurface of the areola (the dark skin surrounding the nipple), or under the arm. The physician’s goal is to create optimal results while ensuring the strategic placement of the scars.

Recovery and Healing

You should be up and about within a couple of days after surgery. However, you will be sore. You will be placed in a post-surgical bra that clasps in the front to avoid raising your arms over your head or behind your back after surgery. Dressings are removed in two days and stitches in about a week following surgery.

Risks

Expect initial swelling to subside within a month. Following surgery you will likely feel tired and sore for about a week. Your physician will prescribe medication to control your discomfort.

As with any surgical procedure, there is always a possibility of infection, or reaction to the anesthesia. Sometimes, a condition known as capsular contraction occurs, which is the over-formation of scar tissue around the implant. This can make your breast feel firm or even hard.