Breast augmentation is one of the most commonly performed procedures in the United States. As a Sacramento plastic surgeon who is board certified, Dr. Andrew Kaczynski of Advanced Concepts in Plastic Surgery has been performing breast enhancement surgery for over 25 years.
Patients who would benefit from this plastic surgery procedure are in two categories: women who have never developed to a breast size they are happy with and women who have become pregnant, breast fed and lost volume and shape. In the latter case, a breast augmentation may be performed as part of a “mommy makeover.” In both cases breast augmentation will benefit them. The breast is made larger by an implant. This is a silicone balloon filled with either silicone gel or saline. Implants have been around since the 1960s and the current design is the best and safest ever made. There was an implant scare in the 1990s but those claims were thrown out and labeled as junk science. All implants are now approved by the FDA. Patients have a choice of silicone or saline implants.
To determine the best breast implants for you it is important to evaluate size, shape and thickness of skin. A consultation is necessary to evaluate these factors.
Breast implants can be put under or over the chest muscle. The vast majorities are put under the muscle because this best hides the implant , gives a more natural shape and decreases the chance of scar tissue forming. The incisions or access points to the space under the breast can vary. There is a choice of periareolar (under the nipple), intramammary (under the breast), axillary (armpits) or umbilical (belly button). Perareolar are the most common in my practice and is in most of California as well. This usually heals the best and gives the best visual access to the pocket. Intramammary scars can give a good result, but can also ride up and create a very difficult scar to form. They also make subtotal muscular coverage more difficult. Axillary scars are hidden in the armpits, but this incision limits the size of implants and also limit access as well as the amount of muscle release. Umbilical access is only applicable for saline implants. Very few people use this approach and with the return of silicone implants it will be used even less.
This surgery is performed in our ambulatory surgery center and takes several hours. It is done under general anesthesia to provide the most comfort and muscle relaxation. Recovery is about one hour in the recovery room and then you go home. Downtime is a day or so and another three to four days at home. Most people can return to an office job within five days. Light exercise in two weeks and full exercise (running or lifting weights) after one month.
You can watch my video presentation about breast augmentation on YouTube.
Breast Augmentation Before & After Pictures
