Aesthetic Plastic

Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation (breast enlargement, breast implant) also known as mammaplasty, is a surgical procedure performed to enhance the shape and size of a woman’s breasts, using breast implants. This procedure can help to make the breasts more proportionate to the rest of the body, even out breasts which are different in size or shape, and it can enlarge and reshape breasts which have lost their fullness or shape due to weight loss, pregnancy, breast feeding, or age. Breast augmentation can also be used for reconstructive purposes on patients who have undergone mastectomy or those with a congenital breast deformity.

Dr. Aziz finds that the best candidate for breast augmentation (breast enlargement, breast implant) is a woman over the age of 18 who is unhappy with her breast size or shape and looking to alter their appearance. Patients must be psychologically stable, physically healthy, and have realistic expectations. Breast augmentation (breast enlargement, breast implant) can enhance the look of the breasts, and often has the added benefit of increasing one’s self confidence.

THE SURGERY

Breast augmentation (breast enlargement, breast implant) typically takes between one to two hours to complete and may be performed under appropriate anesthesia in our fully accredited on site surgical facility.

There are several different possible locations for the incisions: axillary, which is under the armpit, inframmary, which is within the crease below the breast; and periareolar, which is around the nipple. Once the incision is made, the breast tissue is lifted to make a space or pocket into which the implant is then inserted. The implant may be placed in one of two locations: subglandular, which is above the chest muscle, or submuscular, which is beneath the chest muscle. When you meet with Dr. Aziz he will discuss the option he thinks is best for you.

The implant is typically a silicone shell that is usually filled with either silicone or saline solutions. After the implant is placed, the incisions are then closed. Tape may be used for added support and the breasts may also be wrapped with gauze or other bandages.

THE RECOVERY

After surgery, patients often feel somewhat sore, tired and stiff, which can last for several days. Some degree of pain is usually experienced because the procedure stretches the tissues, though the submuscular placement of the implants is typically associated with more discomfort. Prescribed pain medication can help alleviate any pain or discomfort you experience. Dr. Aziz may also request that you keep your arm extensions to a minimum, raising your elbows no higher than your armpit, for three to five days after surgery.

A few days after surgery, any bandages that were applied are usually removed. Many times, patients are required to wear a support bra or compression bandage to help support and position the breasts. Sutures are usually the self-absorbing kind.

The breasts may feel tight at first as the skin adjusts to the new breast size, and the breasts themselves may seem firm at first, though they do soften in time. Swelling is common and usually begins to subside within a few weeks. Increased sensitivity to physical contact of the breasts may occur for a month or longer. The incisions will be pink right after surgery and for several weeks, but will fade over a period of several months.

The amount of time it takes to recover will be different for each patient and for each technique. However, most patients find that they can return to work a few days after surgery. Nonetheless, you will need to refrain from overly strenuous activities for several weeks.

You will know if the procedure is right for you.

If you have wondered how you would look with breast enhancements, now is the time to contact our office to arrange a personalized consultation with Dr. Aziz. He can confirm if you are a good candidate for the procedures and go over all of the issues you may have. Call our office today (614) 840-9500 or contact us today.

Visit our plastic / cosmetic surgery office, located in Columbus, Ohio (OH).