How can I find a qualified board certified plastic surgeon?

Patients should visit the official website of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (http://www.plasticsurgery.org/) and use the search function to find a board certified plastic surgeon.


What is breast augmentation?

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure to increase the size of the breast with the help of breast implants.


How should one prepare for breast augmentation surgery?

The patients should search for a surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons. Have a personal consultation. During the consultation, the patient must feel comfortable with the surgeon’s approach and explanations and ask all of her questions. Each surgeon has a little bit different approach to the procedures. The patient must have a good understanding of the surgeon’s approach and the steps involved in the whole process.


How is breast augmentation surgery performed?

There are several different methods to perform breast augmentation. These techniques may depend on the patient’s anatomical and aesthetic requirements. Generally, there are three skin approaches;1- an incision in the skin fold below the breast (inframammary crease).2- an incision half way around the areola (circumareolar approach).3- an incision in the arm pit (trans-axillary approach).The breast implant can be placed above the chest muscle under the breast tissue (sub-glandular) or below the chest muscle (sub-pectoral).There are currently two types of breast implants approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA);1- Saline implants2- Silicone gel implants.Some surgeons also use the approach through the belly button (transumbilical) for the insertion of saline implants. Patients should discuss all the factors mentioned with their surgeon to make sure that they have a good understanding of the procedure. Generally, skin incision is made in one the locations. A pocket is created for the implant in the proper location. The breast implant is then placed in that pocket. After the location and symmetry of the breasts are checked the incisions are closed. Patients have to wear a support bra for several weeks.