Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure to improve the size and shape of a woman’s breast by inserting a prosthesis. It is mainly performed to improve the silhouette of women with underdeveloped breasts, to correct the emptiness and sagging of the breast that occurs after pregnancy, and to correct differences in size between the two breasts.
To perform a breast augmentation operation, it is usually required that the glandular growth has been completed and that the patient has reached the age of majority. Occasionally, in the case of congenital breast malformations or severe asymmetries, surgery may be performed earlier.
Preparation for breast augmentation surgery
Before performing the intervention, the size and shape of the prosthesis to be implanted is evaluated in the consultation, taking into account the size of the existing breast and its anatomical characteristics. The possible surgical techniques, the plane of placement of the prostheses and the approach routes to introduce the implants will also be studied. A general health examination is always performed.
Types of prostheses for breast augmentation
There are prostheses of different sizes, shapes, surfaces and filling materials, and the final choice of the implant will be made jointly between the surgeon and the patient, always considering the anatomical characteristics of her breasts and thorax.
The most commonly used prostheses, whether round or anatomical, are those made of silicone gel with a rough surface.
The latest generations of implants are made of cohesive silicone gel, which means that the silicone is not liquid, so that in case of rupture it does not penetrate the tissues.
As for the incisions, they will depend on the patient’s preferences and the surgeon’s criteria. The procedure can be performed through a small incision placed in the lower margin of the areola, in the groove under the breast or in the armpit.
The incision will always be designed so that the resulting scar is as inconspicuous as possible.
On the other hand, the breast implant can be placed in different anatomical planes with respect to the gland and the pectoralis muscle (subglandular, submuscular, double plane, subfascial), and its choice will depend on the anatomical characteristics of the breast, as well as the preferences of the patient and her surgeon.
Breast augmentation surgery
Breast surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia and sedation, or under general anesthesia; it usually lasts between 1 and 2 hours, depending on the type of anesthesia. Hospitalization is usually not necessary.
After surgery, absorbable sutures are usually used and it is not usually necessary to remove the stitches; depending on the activity performed by the patient, you can do almost normal life at 24-48 hours and return to work in a few days.
Risks of breast augmentation surgery
Breast augmentation surgery is a safe technique, as long as it is performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, and the incidence of complications is low.
The most frequent complications are usually bleeding, infection and capsular contracture; if they occur, they are usually resolved satisfactorily for the patient.
The results after a breast augmentation are usually very satisfactory for the patient, not only in the physical aspect, but also in many occasions improving their self-esteem and security.