What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to reshape and enhance the appearance of the breasts, offering individuals the opportunity to achieve a more balanced and proportionate body silhouette. Medically known as augmentation mammoplasty, this elective surgery involves the insertion of implants, either filled with a saline solution or made of silicone, either behind the breast tissue, or partially under the chest muscles, or under the fascia, the latter being the connective tissue sheet which wraps around the muscles in our body.
Alternatively, the procedure involves taking fat from other areas of the patient’s body, a procedure known as fat transfer breast augmentation. The choice of implant type, size, surgical incision locations, and in which layer to place the implants is typically a collaborative decision made by the patient, guided by the expertise of an aesthetic plastic surgeon.
We offer breast implants of all leading manufacturers such as: Polytech, Motiva, Sebbin, Mentor, and GC Aesthetics . Under the guidance of Jonathan J. Redeker, you can benefit from his wealth of experience and expertise to achieve the optimal breast shape that enhances and complements your body proportions!
Are you a candidate for the surgery?
The ideal candidate for breast augmentation is a woman seeking enhancement rather than perfection in both appearance and self-esteem. Candidates need to be in good physical health, free from active infections or untreated serious illnesses and willing to minimize smoking and abstain from excessive alcohol consumption. Mental health is paramount, as the surgery can permanently alter appearance, requiring a healthy frame of mind with realistic expectations.
Full breast development is a prerequisite for augmentation, with an age minimum of 18 years. Adequate post-surgery rest and support are essential, with some limitations on physical activities.
We at Redeker Aesthetics guide candidates through these considerations, ensuring a thorough understanding of the procedure and a personalized approach to achieving the desired outcome.
What should you expect from your consultation?
During your consultation, it is essential to communicate your goals and expectations to your doctor, ensuring specificity while maintaining realistic aspirations. We will conduct a thorough examination, considering factors such as the size and shape of your breasts, along with the quality of your skin and the position of your nipples and areolas.
If your breasts are sagging, we might recommend a breast lift along with the augmentation procedure. Also, we may order a baseline breast ultrasound or mammogram to evaluate your breast health.
Be ready to discuss your complete medical history, covering conditions, allergies, prior treatments, surgeries, including breast biopsies, and current medications. Family history of breast cancer and diagnostic screening results will also be addressed, underscoring the importance of providing thorough information for a comprehensive consultation.
How is the surgery performed?
The approach to inserting and positioning breast implants depends on individual anatomy, factors, and preferences. We collaborate with patients to determine the appropriate breast size, incision location, and in which layer the implants will be positioned. Incisions can be made in different locations, including in the breast-crease or around the areola, with meticulous care to minimize visible scarring.
We generally use the incision in the breast-crease, as this gives the lowest risk of malposition, bacterial contamination, and capsular contracture (scar tissue that distorts the shape of the breast). Through 30-40mm incisions, we lift the breast tissue and skin, creating symmetrical pockets. The implants are then gently inserted with a “minimal-touch-technique”.
The entire procedure typically takes 45-60 minutes and is performed under general anesthesia to ensure a pain-free and safe experience. Resorbable sutures are used to close incisions. We generally avoid drains.
What are the benefits of breast augmentation?
Improved self-confidence
Increased breast projection
Customized implant choice and sizes
Restoration of breast “perkiness” after pregnancy
Possibility to combine with other procedures like breast lift
Correction of breast asymmetry
Implants can later be removed or replaced as desired
What are the important risks of breast augmentation?
Postoperative bleeding (very rare)
Infection (extremely rare)
Temporary changes in nipple and breast sensation
Asymmetry
Implant position changes (rare)
Implant rupture (rare)
Capsular contracture (very rare)
What to expect during your recovery?
After undergoing breast augmentation with implants, you can expect some discomfort in the initial one to two days post-surgery. Patients can go home on the day of surgery and experience light to moderate pain, which can be managed with paracetamol and ibuprofen thanks to our Rapid Recovery Breast Augmentation Protocol. A compressive sports bra is worn for 4-6 weeks to support the breast and to aid healing.
It's crucial to have some help in the following days, as the surgery may temporarily limit your ability to lift heavy objects during the recovery period. Light exercises can typically be resumed within 48 hours, while more strenuous activities are not advised during two to six weeks, depending on the activity type and intensity.
Specific post-operative instructions will be provided during the consultation. The full benefits of breast augmentation may take weeks or months to fully realize, but get ready for many smiles and maybe some new clothes!
If you're considering changing the size, shape or feel of your breasts, whatever your reasons may be, know that the decision is entirely yours. At Redeker Aesthetics, our role is to assist and support you in achieving your goals as best as we can!