On November 17, 2006 the FDA approved the use of silicone breast implants. Any woman over the age of 22 or any woman having breast reconstruction will have the option of silicone gel breast implants. A website www.breastimplantsafety.org offers objective and science based information regarding silicone and saline breast implants. Please contact The Sullivan Centre at 614-436-8888 for more information on this recent development.
Who is a candidate for Breast Augmentation?
Women, who are emotionally mature and fully understand their motivations for wanting to have the procedure, have realistic expectations, and whose breasts are fully developed are ideal candidates for breast augmentation. Many patients choose augmentation as a way to recapture the breast size they had before pregnancy or weight loss. Most women just want to even their body out by increasing the size of their breasts. Some women also choose breast augmentation as a way of evening out breasts that are of different sizes.
How is Breast Augmentation performed?
The technique used for surgery depends on your surgeon's preference and desired result. The incision can be made in several different areas and will be decided during your initial consultation. The surgeon then creates a pocket into which the implant is inserted. This pocket is either directly behind the breast tissue or beneath the pectoral muscle located below the breast tissue and above the chest wall.
Are Breast implants Safe?
Women choosing to undergo breast augmentation will have their choice of breast implants. They can receive saline breast implants or silicone breast implants. During your initial consultation, your surgeon will discuss, in detail, all of the benefits and complications associated with breast augmentation, saline implants, and silicone implants. Both Saline breast implants and silicone breast implants are FDA approved for breast augmentation surgery. The breast implant manufacturers, under direction of the FDA, have created a website: www.breastimplantsafety.org to assist patients with silicone breast implant safety and concern issues.
How will I know what size I will be following surgery?
During the pre-operative appointment, you will meet with the surgeon to discuss size and view pictures. You will be given a sizing bra and implant sizers to use to determine the appropriate size for you. Lifestyle plays a large part in the final choice and your surgeon will help determine the size that best suits you.
What is the On ~Q Pain Pump?
The On ~Q Pain pump is a tiny catheter that is inserted directly into the surgical site. The medication will numb the area for 72 hours thus allowing you to get up and around sooner. This will aid in lessening the actual amount of "down time" needed.
What should I know about my results?
Most women are very pleased with the results after breast augmentation surgery. You will no longer need padded bras and your new natural curves will allow you to wear a greater variety of fashions. Many women find that their new figure gives them greater self-confidence. You will be likely to be happy with your results for many years. However, you should note that your breasts are not immune to the effects of weight fluctuations or aging.
How to Choose My Surgeon:
No matter what type of surgery you're considering, one of the most important factors in success is the surgeon you choose. Many surgeons today are performing cosmetic surgery without the benefits of any formal training. Ask your surgeon if she is certified by The American Board of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASPRS). Ask about her specialty within the realm of plastic surgery. Does she perform all types of surgeries from head to toe or is she specialized in specific areas? By asking the questions and feeling comfortable with your surgeon, you will be on your way to a successful outcome.