Breast Augmentation

Improves the size and appearance of the breasts.

Procedure
Breast augmentation, also called breast enlargement, improves the size and appearance of the breasts by implanting saline or silicone breast implants either under or over the chest muscle, thus producing a cosmetic enhancement.

Length
This procedure takes approximately two hours.

Anaesthesia
A general anaesthesia is administrated and the patient is completely asleep, or an intravenous sedation is used, combined with local anaesthesia.

Inpatient/Outpatient
Either inpatient or outpatient depending on the preference of the surgeon.

Possible Side Effects
Mild, temporary discomfort, mild to moderate swelling, a change in nipple sensation (either increased or decreased), and temporary bruising. Breasts may be sensitive to stimulation for a few weeks.

Risks
Either one breast implant or both may need to be removed and/or replaced to treat problems including: deflation, implant rupture, the formation of scar tissue around the implant (capsular contracture), which may cause the breast to feel tight or hard, bleeding and/or infection. Other risks are an increase or decrease in sensitivity of the nipples or breast skin, which occasionally may be permanent.

Recovery
The patient can return to work within a few days. She should avoid any physical contact with her breasts (excluding her bra) for approximately three to four weeks. Scars should fade and flatten anywhere from three months to two years after surgery, depending upon how the individual patient heals.

 Results
The outcome varies from patient to patient. However the overall effect is enhancement of breast size for improved appearance.