What is Breast Augmentation
reast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure
designed to increase the size, shape, or fullness of the breasts. It involves placing
implants beneath the breast tissue or chest muscles to enhance the appearance of the
breasts.
There are various reasons why someone might choose to undergo breast augmentation:
1. Cosmetic Enhancement: Many individuals seek breast augmentation to achieve
a fuller or more symmetrical breast appearance. This could be to enhance their
body proportions, improve self-confidence, or restore breast volume lost due to
pregnancy, weight loss, or aging.
2. Corrective Purposes: Breast augmentation can also be used to correct
congenital deformities, asymmetry between the breasts, or changes in breast
shape or size following mastectomy or lumpectomy for breast cancer treatment.
The procedure is typically performed under general anaesthesia. During surgery, the surgeon makes incisions in inconspicuous locations to minimize visible scarring, such as under the breast crease, around the areola (the dark skin surrounding the nipple), or in the armpit. Through these incisions, the surgeon creates a pocket either behind the breast tissue (subglandular placement) or beneath the chest muscle (submuscular placement) and inserts the breast implants.
Breast implants are available in various shapes, sizes, and materials, including saline filled implants and silicone gel-filled implants. The choice of implant type and placement depends on factors such as the patient’s anatomy, desired outcome, and the surgeon’s recommendations.
After surgery, patients typically experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication and wearing a supportive bra. Recovery time varies, but most individuals can return to normal activities within a few weeks. It’s essential to follow post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon to ensure optimal healing and results.
Breast augmentation is a personal decision, and it’s crucial for individuals considering the procedure to have a thorough consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss their goals, expectations, and any potential risks or complications associated with the surgery.
What should i know about my health before going ahead with Breast Augmentation?
While the decision to undergo breast augmentation surgery depends on various factors and is best made in consultation with a qualified healthcare provider, there are certain health conditions that may pose increased risks or contraindications to the procedure. Here is a list of some health conditions that may warrant caution or make an individual unsuitable for breast augmentation surgery:
1. Untreated or uncontrolled cardiovascular disease (e.g., uncontrolled hypertension, coronary artery disease, history of heart attack)
2. Untreated or uncontrolled bleeding disorders (e.g., haemophilia, von Willebrand disease)
3. Untreated or uncontrolled diabetes mellitus
4. Active infection or illness
5. History of keloid or hypertrophic scarring
6. Autoimmune disorders (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)
7. History of breast cancer or other breast-related medical conditions
8. Current pregnancy or breastfeeding
9. Severe obesity
10.Significant psychiatric or psychological conditions that may impact decision
making or recovery
11. Smoking or use of nicotine products (increases risk of complications and impairs
wound healing)
12. Use of certain medications that may increase surgical risks (e.g., anticoagulants,
immunosuppressants)
13. Unrealistic expectations or motivations for undergoing surgery
12. Poor overall health status that may increase surgical risks or impair healing
It’s important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and each individual’s medical history and circumstances should be thoroughly evaluated by a qualified plastic surgeon before undergoing breast augmentation or any surgical procedure. Additionally, patients should disclose all relevant health information and follow their surgeon’s recommendations to minimize risks and optimize outcomes.
