Breast Augmentation  Augmentation Mammaplasty

Breast augmentation enhances the size and/or shape of the breast with the insertion of an implant behind the breast. Women choose to have breast augmentation surgery for a number of reasons. Some women want larger breasts, while others wish to correct a volume reduction occurring after pregnancy. Multiple techniques are used by surgeons in performing breast augmentation, and the best procedure is selected based upon the individual patient's needs and preferences. In most cases, saline-filled (salt water) implants are used, although silicone gel-filled implants may be used in some circumstances.* Different styles of implant are available, and these are selected depending upon the surgical needs of the patientBreast augmentation surgery lasts from one to two hours, and can be performed on an outpatient basis. Local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia may be chosen. Incisions may be placed in the areola (the pigmented area around the nipple), in the crease under the breast, or in the armpit. The implant itself is placed either under the breast gland, or under the chest muscle (pectoralis major), and centered under the nipple.

Pain and discomfort following the surgery are typically controlled with oral pain medication, and are not severe. Stitches are removed within seven to ten days after surgery, and within one week most patients can return to work. The surgeon may recommend wearing a support bra or tape for a few weeks after surgery. While most bruising resolves in a week or two, some swelling may persist for four to six weeks or longer, depending on the exact nature of the surgery and the patient.

*Breast implants are made from a silicone shell filled typically filled with salt water (saline), or silicone gel. Because of insufficient information demonstrating the safety of silicone gel-filled implants, the Food and Drug Administration has restricted the use of new gel-filled implants to surgery on women participating in approved studies only. Some patients requesting primary ("first-time") breast augmentation may be candidates for silicone gel-filled implants within such studies, and this can be discussed with your surgeon in consultation.

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