Breast Augmentation
Description
- Breast augmentation typically involves using breast implants to increase the size of your breasts, restore breast volume lost after weight reduction or pregnancy, and/or achieve a more rounded breast shape. Breast augmentation can also be used improve natural breast size asymmetry and as a part of treating tuberous breast deformity.
- Breast augmentation does not correct severely drooping breasts. A breast lift (mastopexy) may be required along with a breast augmentation for sagging breasts to look fuller and lifted. Breast lifting can often be done at the same time as your augmentation but sometimes it is better to do these as separate surgeries.
- Can achieve a mild enhancement with fat grafting alone: using your own fat after liposuction and transferring to breasts.
Benefits
- Increase fullness and projection of your breasts
- Improve balance of breast and hip contours
- Enhance your self-image and self-confidence
Ideal Candidate
- You are a nonsmoker, physically healthy, and you aren't pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have realistic expectations
- Your breasts are fully developed
- You are bothered by the feeling that your breasts are too small
- You are dissatisfied with your breasts losing shape and volume after pregnancy, weight loss or with aging
- You are unhappy with the upper part of your breast appearing "empty"
- Your breasts are asymmetric
- One or both breasts failed to develop normally or have an elongated shape such as tuberous breast deformity
Consultation
- During your consultation, Dr. Cho will assess your current medical history, including medications, vitamins and herbal supplements you take, alcohol, tobacco, and drug use. She will also ask about family history of breast cancer, previous mammograms, and if you’ve had any breast biopsies.
- Examine and measure your breasts, including detailed measurements of their size and shape, skin quality and placement of your nipples and areolas. She will also examine your breasts for any masses or lesions.
- Take photographs
- Dr. Cho will discuss with you the different types of breast implants with recommendations based on your goals and the look you are trying to achieve. The two main types of breast implants are silicone and saline filled; both of these implant types have a silicone shell. *A patient must be at least 22 years old to have silicone implants placed. You will have the opportunity to try on different size implants. Implants also come in different projection profiles from low to extra high depending on the look you are trying to achieve.
- Dr. Cho will also discuss with you the options for placement of the implant above or below the muscle and what her recommendations are.
- Dr. Cho will carefully listen to your aesthetic goals and come up with a customized plan to meet those goals.
- Discuss likely outcomes of breast augmentation and any risks or potential complications
Recovery
- 1-2 weeks, final results can take up to 3 months to allow for tissues and implant to settle
- During your recovery you will have a support bra that will minimize swelling and support the breasts as they heal.
- You will be given instructions on how to care for the surgical sites after surgery, and how to take the prescribed medications to reduce pain and risks of infection.
- It is important that the surgical incisions are not subjected to excessive force, swelling, abrasion or motion during the time of healing.
- To help avoid postoperative complications and facilitate healing, you will not be able to lift more than 15 lbs or do any strenuous activities particularly if it involves pushing or pulling for a few weeks.
Pre- and Post-Op Care
- Do not take any blood thinning medications for 1 week before surgery: these include aspirin, NSAIDs, ibuprofen/motrin, naproxen. Also avoid any herbal supplements or vitamins which can prolong bleeding.
- Do not smoke or vape or take nicotine-containing products before or after your surgery as they can impair the healing process.
- You will typically be allowed to sponge bathe, but do not shower until cleared by Dr. Cho
- Wear your surgical bra at all times if possible.
- Take medications as directed.
- Avoid heavy lifting as directed by your surgeon.
- Come to all postoperative visits as scheduled.
Surgery is a big decision.
We are here to answer any questions you have and help you determine the right choice for you. If you are considering surgery, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Cho today. She would be honored to discuss your goals and help you achieve the look you desire.