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For most women, their breasts are an integral part of their body image. Breast Augmentation has been chosen by millions of women to change the size, shape and projection of their breasts. Women find that Breast Augmentation not only dramatically changes their appearance, but also often results in a significant improvement in their self-image.
There are many factors that cause or contribute to small breasts, including genetics, weight loss, pregnancy and/or breast-feeding. These factors, combined with age and gravity, often lead not only to a loss in breast volume, but can also lead to a loss in firmness and shape of the breast tissue.
Both young and old patients seek Breast Augmentation to obtain a more proportional silhouette in clothes and bathing suits. Often, the desire to feel more feminine and attractive is expressed as the motivation behind pursuing Breast Augmentation.
The Procedure
During the Breast Augmentation procedure, a breast implant is placed behind each breast to increase its size and enhance its shape. Most women still receive saline-filled implants, although silicone gel implants have recently become available and can be requested.
There are 4 decisions to consider when pursuing Breast Augmentation surgery:
Pocket Placement
The breast implant is placed in a pocket either directly behind the breast tissue (Sub-Mammary placement) or beneath the pectoral muscle of the chest (Sub-Muscular placement).
Implant Size
This is clearly a very personal decision and Dr. Barr does not suggest nor advise on this subject. He will, however, suggest ways in which patients can determine, for themselves, the size of implant that will achieve their desired aesthetic result.
Incision Site
Incisions can be placed in 1 of 3 locations: underneath the breast hidden in the breast crease, around the lower border of the areola, or in the underarm area.
Anaesthesia
The procedure can be carried out either under general anaesthesia or using local anaesthesia with intravenous sedation.
During the consultation process, Dr. Barr will conduct an examination and discuss all of these options. Pocket placement, implant size, incision site and choice of anaesthesia will be determined by individual patient preferences and physique.
Post-Operative Course
Breast Augmentation is performed as an outpatient procedure and does not require an overnight stay. Patients are usually up and around within 1 or 2 days and back to work soon after. Any temporary soreness, swelling, change in nipple sensation, and bruising will disappear gradually.
Patients wear a small dressing and bra for 3 days. Beginning on the third post-operative day, patients are to shower daily. Patients are seen back in the office between 4 and 6 days following surgery for range of movement exercises and for suture removal at 7 to 10 days. Most patients return to normal work activities within 4 to 7 days, but are to refrain from more strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for 3 weeks.
Concurrent Procedures
The most common procedures to be combined with Breast Augmentation are Mastopexy (breast lift), Abdominoplasty and Liposuction.
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