Breast Enlargement
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a very popular and common procedure that can increase your breast size by one or more sizes. By surgically inserting breast implants beneath the breast tissue or the chest muscle during breast augmentation, we can help women achieve larger, shapelier breasts. This type of breast enhancement is sometimes performed in conjunction with a breast lift. For some women, breast augmentation is a way to enhance self-image and self-confidence. For others, breast augmentation is part of breast reconstruction after surgery for breast cancer or other conditions affecting the breast. Breast enlargement results can be enhanced by mastopexy or breast lift. This is particularly desirable for women with small breasts that are also saggy. Areola reduction may reduce diameter of the areola.
Podcast Episode: Important Things to Consider Before Breast Augmentation
Ever wondered if a breast augmentation procedure was right for you? Listen as Dr. Normington reviews everything from which patients are the best candidates for the procedure, to types/locations of scarring, and recovery timelines.
Breast Augmentation Considerations
Breast augmentation can dramatically improve the appearance of a woman’s breasts. During your consultation, you’ll learn more about your options for creating your ideal breast appearance, including:
• Implant size, style, and shape
• Implant material (silicone, gel or saline)
• Implant position (above or below the pectoralis muscle)
• Implant incision site
The goal is to create a natural and alluring look. Which implant size will work best for you must be individually determined with your input. The size, shape, style, and type of implant will be decided after a comprehensive examination. Placing implants that are too large for the intended body size have greater chances of capsular contracture, discomfort and longer recovery times.
Who is a good candidate?
Candidates consist primarily of women who desire larger breasts and women who have smaller breasts with a moderate degree of sagging. Women who have one breast that is noticeably larger than the other may also desire breast enlargement to provide symmetry.
How is a breast enlargement performed?
A small incision is made either under the breast or areola margin, and the implant is inserted under the breast tissue or under both the breast tissue and underlying muscle. Our surgeons prefer to place the implant beneath the muscle if possible. The procedure is completed on an outpatient basis under anesthesia. Patients have an option of choosing either saline or silicone implants.
Implant Info
Comparison Chart of Saline and Silicone Implants
For more information, visit www.breastimplantsafety.org
Podcast Episode: Silicone vs Saline Breast Implants
In this episode Dr. Normington explains the pros and cons of both silicone breast implants and saline breast implants. If you're considering a breast augmentation procedure of any kind, this episode will be very useful to you.
Breast augmentation can be combined with a breast lift
Some women who are considering breast augmentation may actually need a breast lift as well. Many of these women have had breast “deflation”, typically due to pregnancy and breastfeeding, but also simply due to the effects of gravity and the aging process. A breast implant can replace the lost volume, particularly the appealing fullness across the upper portion of the breast, as well as improve overall breast shape. But if the implant is placed as low on the chest wall as the deflated breast is currently situated, it will appear quite unnatural. Thus, a breast lift, which elevates the nipple to a more youthful (higher) position and also removes any sagging skin or breast tissue that has fallen below the breast fold, works well when performed in combination with an implant, restoring breasts to their natural position and appearance.
Recovery After Breast Enlargement
The patient goes home in a lightweight bra, which helps to hold the breasts in correct position. Initial discomfort is controlled by oral medication. Sutures are usually removed in 7 to 10 days. Light activities may be resumed as tolerated. Patients can return to aerobic activities in approximately 3 weeks.
Insurance Guidelines
Because this procedure is considered cosmetic and is not covered by insurance, the patient is responsible for entire payment. The cost of breast augmentation can be determined during a consultation with one of our surgeons.