Breast Enlargement - Augmentation Mammoplasty

Breast enlargement is done to improve self image and create a better proportioned figure. Clothing becomes easier to find in one's size. It is one of the most common cosmetic procedures done in this country today. Dr. Siegel performs this procedure in his office operating suite using general anesthesia. The saline (salt water) implant is placed beneath the pectoralis chest muscle. The scarring is less than two inches, and can be placed beneath the breast, around the areola, or in the axilla. Most patients prefer the beneath the breast approach because of the hidden scar with or without clothing.

Silicone implants have recently been re-approved for release to the public by the FDA. They are available to patients from several manufacturers in the United States for immediate implantation. They have been used in breast enlargement and reconstructive surgery for more than 30 years. The external shell has changed slightly over the years; however, the silicone gel has changed little. The gel is opaque on X-ray as is saline and offers no benefit for mammography. It is said to be softer, and a more natural consistency when implanted beneath the breast.The latest implants have no long term data to answer questions of rupture. In order to detect rupture of gel implants, the manufacturer has recommended that all patients receive MRI X-rays every 2 years. If a gel is found to be ruptured, removal and replacement are recommended, and the cost of this procedure is paid by the manufacturer.

Comparing gel implants to saline implants, the incision is slightly larger for gel implants since the implants are pre-filled at the factory, and the cost of the implants is considerably more than saline. Over all deflation rates for saline implants is thought to be between 5-10 percent over the life of the patient. The incidence of gel ruptures is unknown.

The choice for shape and profile of implant can be discussed during your consultation with Dr. Siegel, as gel implants are available in various shapes and profiles. Additional information can be obtained from the manufacturer's web site at www.breastimplantstoday.com.

Breast Implants for Asymmetric and Tuberous Breasts
Some women have breasts that are completely different cup sizes or that are extremely tuberous. This can make a woman feel self-conscious and insecure about her appearance. But the problem can be solved with careful measurement of the chest wall and the breasts, which allows doctors to choose the most appropriately sized implants.

Breast implants are chosen according to each patient's personal specifications. The goal of our surgeons is to create a look that is both natural and feminine. We work toward creating beauty, symmetry, and balance for each patient.

After breast augmentation surgery, there is muscle soreness for 4 to 7 days which is treated with medication and a support bra. Most patients begin driving about 5 days after surgery. Exercise can cause excessive swelling or bleeding and must be avoided for a minimum of two weeks. The shape of the breast will change and improve until the final shape is achieved at six months. Patients with misshapen or uneven breasts can benefit from a breast augmentation, but occasionally an additional procedure (mastopexy) may also be required.

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If you have additional questions, please email Dr. Siegel, or call our office at 757-547-2115.

Information provided by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons Website at www.plasticsurgery.org

For implant safety information, visit www.breastimplantsafety.org

For more information on implants, visit www.allaboutimplants.com