WHAT IS BREAST AUGMENTATION?

Artificial enlargement or shaping up of the female breast, surgically, by implanting foreign material.

REASONS FOR SURGERY

• Restoration of normal breast appearance after a mastectomy.
• Enlargement of the breasts in patients who have less breast tissue than they desire.
• Correction of asymmetry of the breasts.

WHO OPERATES

Plastic and reconstructive surgeon.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

• Tests for Pre-operative fitness;
• Mammograms.

ANESTHESIA

Local anesthesia.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• Incisions may be made under the breast, through the nipple or in the armpit.
• The breast tissue is brought forward by raising muscles from below the breast or the muscles next to the chest wall. Implants thus put in do not interfere with future detection of any abnormal lumps in the breast.
• A pocket is created, and the implant (a mammary prosthesis filled with silicone or saline) is inserted. The procedures are usually repeated on the other breast.
• The skin is closed with sutures or clips, which usually can be removed after about 1 week. A light bandage is applied.
• A bra or elastic bandage is fitted to give support and to reduce possible bleeding.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Excessive bleeding.
• Surgical-wound infection.
• Formation of a thickened band of tissue from bleeding around the breast. This will make the breast harder to touch than usual.
• Implant may become dislodged or rupture (rare).

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY

0 to 1 day.

TREATMENT

ACTIVITY

• Resume work and normal activity as soon as possible.
• Avoid vigorous exercise for 6 weeks after surgery.

VISIT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY IF,

• Pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding increases in the surgical area.
• You develop signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.
• You experience new symptoms, such as nausea or vomiting.