Breast Augmentation

If any of these sound familiar, breast augmentation might be worth considering.

• You’re in good health and not pregnant or nursing.
• You have realistic expectations about the outcome.
• Your breasts are fully developed.
• You feel like your breasts are smaller than you’d like.
• You’re unhappy with how your breasts lost shape or volume after pregnancy, weight loss, or as you’ve gotten older.
• The top part of your breasts looks “empty,” and it bothers you.
• Your breasts are uneven or asymmetrical.
• One or both of your breasts didn’t develop as expected or have a more elongated shape than you’d prefer.

Breast augmentation with breast implants- The procedure may begin with an initial consultation with the surgeon and then medications for anesthesia are administered either through intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. In this case, the surgeon will give the best recommendation which would be safe and comfortable for the candidate. The incisions are made in such inconspicuous areas that they are hard to spot. The plastic surgeon will make incisions according to the discussions made in the previous consultations to achieve the desired outcome.

The incision options include making incisions along the areolar edge, in the breast fold, and also the armpit. A belly button approach is associated with a higher complication rate. Ultimately, the incisions are made based on the type of breast implants, the degree of enlargement and the anatomy of the patient. After making the incision in the desired locations, the silicone implants are placed under the pectoral muscle or directly behind the breast tissue that is over the pectoral muscle. This method for inserting and positioning the breast implants depends on the type of implants used, the desired degree of enlargement and the physique of the patient. Finally, at the end of the procedure, the incisions are closed with layered sutures in the breast tissue, skin adhesives or surgical tape. The incision scars may be visible but over time the lines will fade. The results will be visible immediately after the procedure.

Fat transfer- Autologous fat transfer procedure involves removing the fat through liposuction from the areas of the body which have abundant fat cells such thighs, abdomen, hip, etc. After processing and refining, these fat cells are injected into the breasts. The surgeons may combine both the procedures to achieve a fuller breast. The fat transfer process is a least invasive procedure but significant amount of enlargement will not be achievable with this process.

During your breast augmentation consultation be prepared to discuss:

• Why you want breast augmentation surgery, your expectations and the desired outcome
• Medical conditions, drug allergies and previous medical treatments
• Current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco and drug use
• Family history of breast cancer and results of any mammograms or previous biopsies

Dr. Sameer will:

1. Assess your overall health and any existing medical conditions or risk factors.
2. Examine and measure your breasts, paying close attention to size, shape, skin quality, and the position of your nipples and areolas.
3. Take photos for reference.
4. Go over your options and suggest the best treatment plan.
5. Talk about expected results, along with any risks or possible complications.

The procedure is done under general anaesthesia for the best comfort of the patient.

THE INCISION
Incisions are made in inconspicuous areas to minimize visible scarring. Dr. Sameer’s preferences are the inframammary (the fold under the breast) & the trans- axillary (in the arm pit / “scarless”) incisions. We can discuss which incision options are appropriate for your desired outcome.

INSERTING AND PLACING THE BREAST IMPLANT
After the incision is made, a breast implant is inserted into a pocket either:

1. Under the pectoral muscle (a submuscular placement)
2. Directly behind the breast tissue, over the pectoral muscle (a submammary/ subglandular placement)
3. SubFascial (just beneath the fascia covering the muscle). This placement has the advantages of both.

Incisions are closed with layered sutures in the breast tissue and with sutures, skin adhesive or surgical tape to close the skin. Over time the incision lines will fade. The quality of scar depends on many things, including your genetics, exposure of your body to nicotine and infection.

After your breast augmentation, your breasts will be wrapped in gauze and supported by an elastic bandage or bra to reduce swelling and aid healing. You’ll be monitored in a recovery area, and once you’re stable—usually after about an hour—you can go home.
Before you leave, you’ll get specific recovery instructions and a follow-up appointment with your surgeon. You might also receive medications or prescriptions, like pain relievers and antibiotics, though many surgeons provide these in advance.

Here’s a general timeline:

• First few days: You’ll experience soreness, swelling, and discomfort. Most people can return to light activities after a 48 hours, but you should avoid strenuous activity.
• Many people are able to return to work in 48-72 hours (if it’s not physically demanding) or within a 5-7 days. Swelling and bruising should start to reduce.
• 4-6 weeks: By this point, most normal activities can be resumed, including exercise, but it’s important to follow your surgeon’s advice about lifting and workouts.

Complications following breast implants, while generally uncommon, can include:

• Capsular contracture: Scar tissue forms tightly around the implant, causing pain or distortion of the breast shape.
• Implant rupture or leakage: Saline implants may deflate, while silicone ruptures are often “silent” but can cause changes in shape or firmness.
• Infection: This can occur around the implant, sometimes requiring removal and reimplantation.
• Changes in nipple or breast sensation: Some people experience increased or decreased sensitivity, which can be temporary or permanent.
• Breast pain: Pain in the breast area may persist after surgery.
• Implant displacement: The implant may shift or rotate, causing an uneven appearance.
• Wrinkling or rippling: Especially with saline implants, the implant can create visible or palpable ripples under the skin.
• Scarring: While typically minimal, some patients may develop more prominent or thickened scars.
• Breast Implant Illness (BII): Some women report systemic symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, or joint pain, though it’s not officially recognized as a medical condition.
• Anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (ALCL): A rare type of cancer linked to textured implants.

Always discuss risks thoroughly with your surgeon before the procedure.