What is breast augmentation?

Breast enlargement is performed as an outpatient at a hospital center under anesthesia by an MD anesthesiologist. I usually place the small cut around the areola, but can place it also in the armpit/below the breast or even through the belly button. Where I place the implant, either underneath the pectoralis (chest) muscle or on top behind the breast tissue only, depends on how the patient looks.My preference is underneath the muscle to hide the implant more and allow better visualization of the breast tissue by the radiologist. Also, the type of implant I use, either saline (smooth or textured) or silicone (smooth or textured)(and various shapes and profiles) depends on how the patient looks, where I place the implant. I always am trying to achieve the most natural result for my patients so I individualize for each one depending on their appearance when I see them. The surgery takes about one hour. I do not use any drains but can use a pain pump if the patient wishes. It is more uncomfortable (and frankly can be painful) if the implant is placed underneath the chest muscle). The patient is prescribed something for pain and sleep as well as an antibiotic. Usually you can return to light activity within several days and full activity after two weeks. Usually you are able to take a shower, drive, go back to school/work in several days. I only place stitches that dissolve to minimize the scar and also that I do not need to remove them after surgery. Complications such as bleeding (about 4%), infection (3%), loss of sensation (no matter where the incision is placed- 1%), deflation with the saline implant (about 5%) occur. The scars usually heal well and breast feeding is possible wherever the incision is placed. Finally, if your breast are different before the surgery, they will probably still be different after. For more information, please see our page on Preparing for your Cosmetic Surgery Procedure. If you are from out of the area, you would need to be here a minimum of two to three days. We can make arrangements for you.