Breast Procedures
Breast Augmentation (Augmentation Mammaplasty) — Breast augmentation is most commonly performed on women who are dissatisfied with their breast size. Augmentation can be performed to increase breast size, to balance size should one breast look noticeably different than the other, or to restore breast volume that may have been lost due to pregnancy, weight loss, or aging. A good candidate for breast augmentation is a woman with realistic expectations regarding the procedure. Breast development must be complete prior to augmentation.
Breast augmentation is achieved by using implants to enlarge and shape the breast. Each implant consists of a silicone rubber shell that is filled with sterile saltwater. The procedure is performed by making a small incision in one of three locations: underneath the breast just above the crease; around the lower edge of the areola; or within the armpit. The surgeon will insert the implant through the chosen incision site into the created pocket. The pocket that will hold the implant is made either directly behind the breast tissue or beneath the pectoral muscle below the breast tissue and above the chest wall.
Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammaplasty) — A prime candidate for breast reduction surgery is any woman with back, neck or shoulder pain caused by the weight of her breasts, breasts that are too large in proportion to the woman’s body frame, shoulder indentations caused by tight bra straps, and restrictions in physical activity due to the size and weight of one’s breasts. This procedure is recommended for women whose breast development is complete. Should you consider breastfeeding in the future, discuss this with your surgeon prior to surgery.
Breast reduction commonly is performed by making a three-part incision. One part is made around the areola, the second is made vertically from the bottom edge of the areola to the crease underneath the breast, and the final part is made horizontally along the natural crease under the breast. Excess breast tissue, fat and skin are removed, and the areola and nipple are moved to a higher position on the breast. The areola is usually reduced in size to compliment the new breast size. The surgeon will use the skin that was originally above the nipple to reshape the breast. Liposuction may also be done to improve the overall contour, especially on the sides of the breast.
Breast Lift (Mastopexy) — A breast lift is a surgical option to women who are unhappy with the shape and contour of their breasts as they age. Over time, as skin loses its elasticity, the breasts often lose their shape and firmness, and begin to sag. This procedure will help to raise and reshape sagging breasts. It is important to keep in mind that this surgery is not a permanent fix since no surgery can permanently delay the effects of gravity. If a woman’s breasts are small or have lost volume, (as seen after pregnancy) inserting breast implants at the time of the mastopexy can increase both their firmness and their size. The best candidates for mastopexy are healthy, emotionally stable women who are realistic about what the surgery can achieve. Optimal results are achieved in women with small, sagging breasts. While breasts of any size can be lifted, the results may not last as long in heavy breasts.
The surgeon will make an incision that outlines the area where breast skin will be removed and defines the new location for the nipple. Once the excess skin has been removed, the nipple and areola are moved to the higher position. The skin surrounding the areola is then brought down and together to reshape the breast. The incision will be closed with stitches around the areola, in a vertical line that extends down from the nipple, and along the lower crease of the breast.