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Who considers a breast augmentation?

Women who are unhappy with the size, contour, and fullness of their breasts often consider breast augmentation, or enhancement. This procedure provides the patient with a fuller, more feminine, and more youthful appearance. Others find that pregnancy, nursing, or weight loss leaves breasts less full (and somewhat deflated). Augmentation is an excellent option in this group of women as well.

What is a breast enhancement?

When Dr. Kennedy does a breast augmentation, she uses FDA approved implants to enhance the size, shape, and position of the breasts. She also uses implants to improve the symmetry of the breasts if one is noticeably smaller. Saline (IV solution) or silicone gel implants are placed behind the breast tissue to improve the shape and volume of the breasts. A variety of implant styles and incisions can be used. Breast augmentation does not "lift" the breasts. If droop or unevenness is significant, a breast lift may be required as well to provide a result as close to your vision as possible.

The operation is more popular now than at any time in its history.

How is the procedure performed?

• A small incision is made to place the implant. The incision is generally under the breast but can be placed in several other locations as well.
• An implant is placed behind the chest wall muscle and inflated to the desired effect.
• Surgery is performed using general anesthesia and is usually performed in the office surgical suite. The surgery takes 1-2 hours and patients return home the same day.
• Breast Lift (mastopexy) can be performed at the same time as augmentation if significant droop exists. This involves slightly more scars.

What is normal recovery?

Patients have bandages to hold the implants in place for the first week. Prescription medications are used during this time to relieve surgical pain and muscle cramping. Patients are generally back to work in less than a week. Upper body, aerobic and more vigorous activity can be resumed in 3 to 4 weeks.

What are the expected results?

Fuller, more shapely breasts are the usual result. Patients see better proportions, a more feminine shape, improved self-esteem, and self-confidence.

Are there potential complications?

Breast augmentation is a common surgery and most women are exceptionally happy with the appearance, feel, and movement following surgery. No surgery is without potential risks - the majority of these are minor. Certain problems can be related to the implants. All of these and other, more rare but significant, problems can be reviewed on the ASPS link below.

Copy adapted from the joint ASPS and PSEF website.