Breast Augmentation
Overview
Breast augmentation is performed to help women adjust the shape and increase the size of naturally small breasts or breasts that have changed with age or pregnancy. Breast implants come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes so that patients obtain the customized results they desire. Dr. Lee tailors his breast augmentation techniques to each patient in order to provide natural-looking, optimal improvement.
What Can Breast Augmentation Achieve?
Tailored Results
Every woman has different cosmetic goals in mind for herself. During your consultation, Dr. Lee will discuss all of your options and listen to any concerns you may have before coming up with a customized surgical plan.
Natural-Looking Breasts
Many women want to increase the size of their breasts but still want to maintain a natural appearance and feel. Breast implants are designed to mimic natural breast tissue so that women can have the best of both worlds.
Better Symmetry and Balance
Breast augmentation is performed so that women can achieve breasts that are more symmetrical and in proportion with the rest of their body frame. Breast augmentation improves the harmony of a woman’s figure by producing a balanced and attractive bustline.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Implant Options
Although implants are available in both saline and silicone, Dr. Lee prefers using saline implants. Saline-filled implants are softer and create a more natural feel. These implants are also easier to insert and require a shorter incision than silicone implants.
Incision Options
Dr. Lee prefers to place the incision in the crease underneath the breast (inframammary fold).
For those who are not candidates or do not want the incision in the breast crease, the transaxillary (in the armpit) or areolar (around the edge of the areola) incisions can be used, but these options are less desirable.
Implant Placement
Dr. Lee prefers to place the implants below the pectoral muscles rather than above them. Submuscular placement allows the muscles to hold the implants in place rather than allowing them to shift freely. Positioning the implants underneath the muscles also creates a more natural look and is less likely to interfere with mammograms or any other breast exam.
Concerns
Recovery
Patients are wrapped in surgical compression garments after their breast augmentation. These garments help control bruising and swelling, and give the breasts the support they need for the implants to settle into their proper place. These garments should be worn for a few weeks before switching to a sports bra. Most women can return to work within one week but should avoid lifting and carrying anything over a couple of pounds for six to eight weeks.
Scars
Scars will form wherever incisions are made. Dr. Lee utilizes the Keller funnel when placing implants to reduce trauma to the incision sites and breast tissue. Visible scars that develop will fade with time and can be lessened through the use of silicone tape. We also recommend keeping incisions out of the sun for at least three to six months.
Cost
The cost of your breast augmentation will vary depending on your implant, incision, and placement choices. Additional costs include anesthesia, facility, and surgeon’s fees. Dr. Lee and his staff at Enhance® will provide you with an accurate cost estimate during your consultation.
Pain
Breast augmentation is performed using general anesthesia to ensure a painless procedure. Patients are given a 72-hour nerve block following their procedure to help minimize pain. Most patients can use over-the-counter medications like TYLENOL® after this. Dr. Lee can prescribe pain medications if necessary. Patients should refrain from strenuous movements for at least the first week to minimize post-operative bleeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Dr. Lee prefer the inframammary incision?
No incision option is without risk. However, making incisions in the breast crease tends to be more sterile, helping minimize the risk of infection, which can lead to capsular contracture. Dr. Lee also utilizes the Keller funnel to further reduce these risks.
What risks are associated with breast augmentation?
Breast augmentation is a safe way to increase the size of the breasts while still maintaining a natural look. While rare, risks can include:
- Adverse reactions to anesthesia
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Changes in skin sensation
- Potential rupture
- Capsular contracture
- Implant displacement
Following all of Dr. Lee’s post-operative instructions will help minimize the likelihood of these complications.
Are my results permanent?
Breast implants are known to last for several years, if not decades. Unfortunately, breast implants do age and degrade, and occasionally need to be replaced in some patients.
What is your preferred breast augmentation method for Asian women?
The usual incisions in the breast fold or areola lead to prominent scarring in Asians; therefore, we prefer to make an incision within the nipple itself when performing Asian breast surgery. When this method of Asian breast augmentation is used, the nipple usually heals with almost no scarring.
