Breast Enlargement (Breast Augmentation)
Common Questions
What approaches can be used?
Axillary or Armpit:
This approach is utilized when a patient's breasts are small, in good position, and relatively symmetrical.
The implant is introduced through a 1 to 1 1/2" incision in the center of the axilla, and is generally placed
under the muscle mass. In patients who are extremely muscular, this placement may show movement of the implant.
In such cases, the implant is placed over the muscle tissue. Absorbable stitches are placed in the armpit area,
and a small tubular drain may be used to collect fluid for a day or two in order to decrease swelling.
Nipple:
This commonly used approach involves a 1 to 1 1/2" incision on the lower border of the pigmented areola (or rarely,
straight through the nipple) and allows not only enlargement but some correction of shape and position discrepancies.
The incision generally heals well with minimal scarring. Although blockage of nipple ducts is a theoretical problem,
it rarely occurs.
Inframammary Incision:
In a small number of cases where the areola is very small, an incision is made in the crease below the breast.
Absorbable stitches are used internally, while the incision is closed externally with stitches which are removed
in our office seven to ten days later.
What type of dressing is utilized?
A surgical support bra is placed after surgery and worn for 24-48 hours. Due to early swelling, some implants may sit high.
We recommend continued support of the breasts with a well-fitted, comfortable bra after augmentation. If your breasts are
a little "high" after surgery, the doctor may recommend going without a bra for two to three weeks or until the implants settle.
What size is right for me?
Obviously your happiness is our goal, but one has to be more conservative with the saline implants that what was when
silicone were used in the past. The need for this is do to rippling or a more noticable implant do to thin tissues in
larger saline implants. Unless one says otherwise, my goal is to be proportionate to your body.
How long do the implants last?
There are no expiration dates on the implants or termination of warranty for their exchange. They will last years.
Will I still be able to breast feed?
Yes, to the degree that all women cannot breast feed who do not have implants in the first place. Realize that the
implant is not in the breast; it is behind the breast and in the majority of times it is behind the muscle.
Do breast implants affect my need for mammograms?
The need for mammograms is not changed with implants. The only difference is that an additional view is done at the time
of your routine study.
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