One of the common problems women experience is self-consciousness regarding the size of their breasts. When a woman feels that her breasts are too small, she may feel uncomfortable in both social and intimate situations. Women often wish they could have larger breasts that provide an overall more curved look for the body.
What Is Breast Augmentation?
Women with breasts that are smaller than they would like can opt for a cosmetic procedure called breast augmentation. During this procedure, implants are inserted in the chest to augment the size of the breasts. Apart from enhancing breast size, augmentation is also helpful in adjusting the size of asymmetrical breasts.
What The Procedure Entails
Before the surgery, the patient is advised to stop taking blood-thinning medicines, which would potentially cause bleeding problems. Similarly, smoking should be avoided well before the procedure. Dr. Bradley will order a mammogram for the patient in order to understand the structure of her breasts, which will help him plan out the procedure effectively.
A breast augmentation is usually carried out under the influence of general anesthesia. It can also be done under local anesthesia with IV sedation.
Dr. Bradley first makes an incision in the armpit, around the areola, or in the crease under the breast. He then creates a pocket near the chest muscle by moving aside tissues. The implant is placed in this pocket. After placing the implant, the incisions are sutured closed with stitches.
The breasts are bandaged to ensure effective healing. Once the procedure is over, in most cases the patient can return home on the same day.
Recovery After the Procedure
Once the procedure is complete, Dr. Bradley advises various precautions to be taken. A compression bandage may need to worn. A sports bra is also recommended to support the healing breasts. In addition, painkillers may be needed to reduce pain and strenuous activities have to be avoided for a couple of weeks.
Sometimes, drainage tubes may be used to remove excess fluid draining from the site where the procedure was carried out. Dr. Bradley will remove the tubes and the bandages during a follow-up procedure. Follow-up visits are needed so that Dr. Bradley can evaluate the progress of the patient.
Within a few weeks, recovery will be completed and the full results of the procedure will be visible. The procedure can give a woman breasts that are larger in size and projection. The results of this procedure will usually last anywhere from 7 to 12 years.
Contact Us
If you want to learn more about breast augmentation, contact our office to schedule a consultation with highly skilled double-board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. James P Bradley. Thanks to his years of experience, Dr. Bradley will be happy to help you achieve the aesthetic goals you desire.
During your consultation, you will be given an examination by Dr. Bradley and a decision will be made regarding your suitability for the breast-augmentation procedure. Before-and-after photos will be available to look at, and any questions you may have will be answered.