Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure designed to increase the size of a woman’s breasts. Not only can this procedure enhance your appearance; it may help build your self-confidence and self esteem. Also as a result of the procedure, many women have found it easier to dress in certain styles of clothing.
The best candidates for breast augmentation are women who:
- Feel their breasts are too small and looking for enhancement
- Have lost breast volume and shape as a result of pregnancy and nursing, aging, and/or weight loss
- Would like to balance the size of their breasts in order to correct an asymmetrical appearance
Regardless of the reason a woman might have for wanting breast augmentation, she should be in good physical condition and have realistic goals and expectations.
The breast augmentation procedure involves the surgical placement of an implant within a woman’s breast. A breast implant is a silicone shell filled with either a saltwater solution known as saline or silicone gel. If the saline-filled implant leaks, the fluid is absorbed into the body. This is the same as if the saline were given as an IV fluid. Currently the FDA approved saline-filled implants and to be used on an unrestricted basis, while silicone gel-filled implants are only to be used in certain cases. Information regarding implants is discussed with the patient during a consultation with Dr. Pertsch and at the time of surgery.
The incision can be placed in a number of different locations including around the areola or in the armpit, but oftentimes it is made underneath the breast and just above the crease. Dr. Pertsch takes every effort to ensure that the incision is placed so the resulting scars will be as inconspicuous as possible. After the incision is made, a pocket is created either under the breast tissue or under the pectoralis muscle. This pocket is made just large enough to accommodate the implant. The implant is then positioned to give the best cosmetic result. The method of inserting and positioning an implant is dependent upon various factors, such as the patient’s anatomy. These things are discussed with Dr. Pertsch at the time of the consultation.
Following surgery, detailed instructions are given to the patient as to postoperative care and activity. It is important for a patient to follow these instructions in order to minimize any complications and help achieve the best results. The surgeon will also advise the patient as to when she can return to normal activities. Most patients are able to return to work within a few days, and return to more strenuous activities in about two to three weeks following surgery.
Please feel free to schedule an appointment at Dr. Pertsch’s San Mateo or Mountain View practice for further information regarding your procedure.
Before | After | Before | After |
Breast AugmentationDescription: 38 year old mother of 9 yr. old son is 5’4″ 128 lb. 34 A to 36 B before surgery now 120 lb. 34D after periareolar, sub muscular breast augmentation with smooth round implants filled to 360 cc on the right and 375 cc on the left. Her very soft, mobile implants give a natural feel. Patient had general anesthesia with abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) at the same operation. ‘After’ photographs taken 11 months after surgery. Click HERE to see more Before & After photos. |
Before | After | Before | After |
Breast AgumnentationDescription: 30 yo who became smaller and lost shape after 6 year old son and 9 year old daughter were born and wanted to restore her proportions. Because of significant pseudoptosis and skin laxity textured saline implants were placed above the muscle via and axillary(arm-pit) approach. 5′ 2″ 105 lb. size 34A Implants: Mentor Siltex 325 cc implants filled to 325 cc both sides Scar location: axilla (arm pit) Implant location: sub-glandular (“overs”) Post op bra size 34C Commentary: Overall very happy with size and very soft and mobile breasts. All sensation intact. Accepts readily palpable implant rippling Post op photos: date taken 1 year 2 months after surgery. Click HERE to see more Before & After photos. |