Breast Augmentation with Implants

Procedure: Increases breast size and visual appeal using surgically placed silicone shells filled with sterile saline (salt water) or silicone gel. Can usually be accomplished through an incision in the armpit (no scars on the breast), around the nipple (a very cosmetic scar), or in the lower breast fold (least favorable and most visible scar). Implants are smooth or textured round, and textured tear drop shaped. In most cases, the patient chooses the incision site, style of implant, and size of implant with surgeon and staff assistance.

Length of surgery: Approximately one hour in our accredited out patient office surgery suite with an additional hour in prep and recovery time.

Anesthesia: Local anesthesia with monitored IV sedation by a board certified anesthesiologist.

Immediate Side effects: Bruising, swelling, scarring, discomfort.

Risks/Complications: Bleeding, body fluid accumulation, infection, nipple numbness, inability to breastfeed (rare), reaction to anesthesia, contracture (painful scarring of the pocket), asymmetry, deflation, among others.

Recovery time: One week to return to sedentary work and activity, two weeks to return to active work and activity, four to six weeks to return to aggressive exercise, heavy lifting, and strenuous work. Will take approximately 3 to 12 months for tissues to relax and implants to settle for final appearance in most people.

Permanence: Anyone contemplating breast implants must be prepared for further surgery in the future whether it is in one year or twenty years. Breast implants are not permanent. Also, the appearance of the breasts will change with age, gravity, weight fluctuations, and pregnancy/lactation.  

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Comparing Saline and Silicone Implants