Women who desire larger breasts may wish to have a breast enlargement (augmentation) procedure. Breast augmentation may also be indicated for women who have one breast that is noticeably smaller than the other.
Breast augmentation is intended to give the patient larger and more shapely breasts. A more positive self image may also be a result of breast enlargement.
Breast enlargement is done on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. A small incision is made under the breast and a saline breast implant is inserted under the breast tissue or under the breast tissue and the underlying muscle.
The patient goes home in an elastic bra. The bra helps hold the breasts in the correct position. Initial discomfort is controlled with oral medication. Sutures are usually removed in 7-12 days. Light activities can be resumed as tolerated and aerobic activities can be started in about 3 weeks. Moving or sliding the implants within the breast pockets during the postoperative period may reduce the frequency of wrinkling.
An additional procedure that would enhance the result of a breast augmentation is a Mastopexy (breast lift) - if the breasts are saggy in addition to being small.
Breast enlargement is considered cosmetic and therefore is not covered by insurance. The patient is responsible for payment.
The specific risks and the suitability of breast augmentation for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are unusual.
Breast implants are not considered lifetime devices. You will likely under go implant removal with or without replacement over the course of your life.
Many of the changes to your breast following implantation are irreversible (cannot be undone). If you later choose to have your implant(s) removed, you may experience unacceptable dimpling, puckering, wrinkling, or other cosmetic changes of the breast.Breast implants may affect your ability to produce milk for breast feeding.
Also, breast implants will not prevent your breast from sagging after pregnancy. With breast implants, routine screening mammography will be more difficult, and you will need to have additional views, which means more time and radiation.
For patients who have undergone breast implantation either as a cosmetic or a reconstructive procedure, health insurance premiums may increase, coverage may be dropped, and/or future coverage may be denied.
Treatment of complications may not be covered as well. You should check with your insurance company regarding these coverage issues.
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