The size and shape of your breasts are key assets in creating the subtle, feminine curves that many women desire. However, your breasts may not produce the aesthetic appeal you desire because they are naturally too small, aging has caused volume loss, or pregnancy has robbed you of an attractive shape. Breast augmentation uses implants to improve the size, shape, and projection of unsatisfactory breasts to enhance your overall appearance.
There are a number of decisions that can affect your final results when it comes to breast augmentation. At Southwest Plastic Surgery, we use VECTRA 3D imaging to help you make key breast augmentation choices. VECTRA 3D imaging uses three-dimensional images of your body, which can be manipulated to show you the results of various breast augmentation factors. Patients that use VECTRA can analyze the shape, volume, and projection of their breasts based on different implant types.
Patients preparing for breast augmentation surgery should be at least 18 or 22 years of age depending on the type of implant desired. You should be in good physical and mental health and have realistic expectations about your results. You should quit smoking for at least two weeks prior to surgery. Spend an adequate amount of time discussing your procedure with your surgeon and asking questions to ensure a comfortable and confident relationship. Since anesthesia will be used, patients shouldn’t eat or drink after midnight the day of their surgery.
Breast augmentation can be performed with the patient under either general anesthesia or IV conscious sedation. The method used will depend on patient preference as well as the patient’s medical history. Your surgeon will decide the verdict on which method is best suited for you.
Implants can be placed fully under the pectoral muscle, partially under the pectoral muscle, or over the pectoral muscle. Implant placement will affect the projection of your breasts and how the implants rest on your chest. Your implant placement will depend on what aesthetic appearance you want to achieve.
For several days following your procedure, your breasts will be bruised and sore. You will likely experience some swelling that may cause pain or discomfort, but this can be controlled using oral medication. At Southwest Plastic Surgery, we are happy to offer EXPAREL®, which is an anesthetic lasting three days. The use of EXPAREL® has greatly reduced the amount of pain patients experience after breast augmentation. You will wear a specialty support bra for the first several weeks of your recovery. Patients should limit their strenuous physical activity for up to four weeks. Most patients can return to work as soon as five days after their surgery. Within six weeks, most major swelling will subside and your final results will be visible.
Breast augmentation is a routine and safe procedure, posing only mild risks. The most common of these being infection and excessive bleeding. Over time, other complications may develop, which can include:
Breast augmentation provides long-lasting results. Some patients may develop mild visible scarring that is likely to fade over time.
The cost of a breast augmentation varies depending on the type of implant used and whether or not you need additional procedures such as a breast lift. The typical cost of a breast implant procedure at Southwest Plastic Surgery will range between $5,000 - $8,000.
