Breast Augmentation

Why is it performed?

Breast augmentation is performed to increase breast size, improve breast shape, and to improve breast asymmetry.

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Types of breast augmentation:

There are many important factors to consider when deciding on the best type of augmentation for you. Dr. Diaconu can help design the best treatment plan for you based on your individual aesthetic goals and physical characteristics.

 

Implant types:

There are two main implant types on the market. Saline and Silicone implants. Both types of implants have a silicone shell however differ on the material within them.

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• Silicone implants are prefilled with a cohesive silicone gel and have a more natural feel and have better retention of shape. On the rare occasion that a silicone implant ruptures, usually the rupture is silent and not noticed by the patient. It is thus recommended that serial screening for rupture starting at 5 years after surgery is performed.

• Saline implants are filled at the time of surgery with sterile saline and allow precise control of implant size. Saline implants have a less natural feel and have less retention of shape but can be placed through smaller incisions. On the rare occasion of rupture, the saline is absorbed by the body with no harm to the patient. Ruptures are noticed by the patient due to decrease in breast size and screening is not recommended.

 

There are many more differences between implant types that will be discussed with you in detail during your confidential consultation with Dr. Diaconu.

 

Incision type:

Several incisions can be used to place the implant. The main three locations are along the inferior mammary fold, peri-areolar and transaxillary.

• Inferior mammary fold: A small incision is placed along the mid aspect of the inferior breast border hidden in the natural create.

• Peri-areolar: The incision is designed around the inferior border of the areola such that it is hidden within the boundary of the areola and breast skin. This type of incisions can be very well hidden but may limit the size of implant that can be placed.

• Transaxillary: The incision is hidden in the axillary fold. Access to the breast pocket is more challenging and the narrow tunnel may limit the size of implant that can be placed.

 

Implant Location:

Implants can be placed above (sub-glandular) or below the muscle (sub-muscular). Optimal implant location depends on patient preferences and characteristics. In general, the subglandular location has a faster recovery however, in patients with thin tissues, the edge of the implant may be visible. In patients with adequate breast thickness, the subglandular location may help lift the breast without needing a formal breast lift. The submuscular location offers improved implant coverage and a smaller risk of capsular contracture. However, thin active patients, may be more prone to an animation deformity. Dr. Diaconu favors a dual plane technique that places part of the implant below the muscle while leaving the other part directly below the breast tissue. Nevertheless, the best location is decided on a patient-by-patient basis.

 

Concurrent procedures:

• Some patients, who have pendulous breasts and wish to increase their breast size may require a breast lift at the time of implant placement. This procedure is referred to as an augmentation-mastopexy.

• Fat grafting can be used to enhance the shape of the breast after implant placement to create a more natural breast silhouette.

 

Breast size:

• Choosing implant size can be overwhelming for patients. Dr. Diaconu will help guide you to pick an implant that's best for you.

 

How to prepare:

• Stable weight

• Smoking cessation

• Avoid blood thinning medications

 

What to expect:

• Most patients go home the same day of surgery

• Dr. Diaconu performs a local block to make your recovery as comfortable as possible. You will have a surgical bra to provide compression to assist with post-operative swelling

• You will be encouraged to walk at home and to refrain from strenuous activity for 4 to 6 weeks

• By one week, most patients have minimal discomfort and can return to work if no strenuous activity is required

• Over the next several weeks your swelling will resolve and your final breast shape will settle in

• Dr. Diaconu will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions and will meet with you regularly throughout your entire recovery