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Breast Augmentation
Procedure
The female breast is a primary symbol of feminity. There are several reasons why women choose breast augmentation:
- obtain fuller breasts
- restore breast volume and shape lost after pregnancy
- balance breasts that differ in size or shape
Considerations
A few factors need to be considered before planning the procedure:
- symmetry of the breasts/nipples
- width of the breasts
- breast tissue characteristics
- skin characteristics
- patient’s desire
In other words, the procedure needs to be individualized.
Types of implant
Breast implants can be classified according to their contents or shape.
Silicone vs saline
* images courtesy of Allergan Inc
- most surgeons would recommend silicone implants as they feel more natural and has less problem of rippling
- silicone breast implants have been extensively studied and regarded as safe
- all silicone implants available here are cohesive gel (aka “gummy bear”) implants, and do not leak like traditional liquid gel implants in the event of rupture:
Round vs anatomical (teardrop shape)
Anatomical implants give the breast a more natural shape. They are more effective in correcting breast imperfections & balancing breasts that differ in size and shape. this is because the matrix system allows the surgeon to select implants of a particular height and projection according to patient’s desired breast size/shape as well as existing breast and chest dimensions/shape:
The Natrelle™ Style 410 Matrix of Implants
Natrelle™ Style 410 Form Stable Highly Cohesive Anatomical Implants
Incisions (to insert the implant)
Inframammary (within the breast fold)
- preferred by most surgeons since it gives the surgeon most control and hence most predictable results
- more concealed compared to axillary, but less concealed than periareolar
Periareolar (along the margin of the areola)
- most concealed among the three
- associated with higher risk of difficulty to breastfeed and altered sensation to the nipple
Axillary (armpit)
- furthest from the breast
- gives the surgeon the least control
- least concealed among the three
- scars in the axilla look obvious in Asians at least during the first 2 years after surgery
Placement (of the implant)
This depends on the amount of breast tissue present and its ability to adequately cover the implant. If there is sufficient breast tissue, the implant can be placed under the breast. Otherwise the implant should be placed under the muscle to be better concealed.
Recovery
In general, patients will feel a bit sore and tight over the chest for several days after the procedure. The breasts may also be swollen for a month or so. There may also be some limitation of upper limb movements for one or two weeks. However, most patients are able to return to work about a week after the procedure. One can resume light gym activities after one month and full gym activities after 3 months. Patients are advised not to wear a bra for at least a month after procedure, and definitely no push-up bra for at least 3 months.
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