Over 4.5 million breast augmentation cosmetic surgery procedures were performed in the US between 1997 and 2012. It currently ranks as the number one procedure in the US in terms of popularity, according to the figures released by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). Innovations in implant qualities and newer, less invasive surgical techniques have contributed to the growing demand for breast augmentation.
The procedure is designed to improve proportion and increase the breast size and volume, or simply make the breasts look more voluptuous. Breast implants may also be used in breast reconstruction following a mastectomy. Dr. Jacob Bloom is a board certified plastic surgeon providing breast augmentation to patients in Chicago, IL, and surrounding communities.
Candidacy
Suitable candidates for breast augmentation plastic surgery may include women who:
- Are bothered by the appearance of naturally small breasts
- Want to have voluptuous breasts solely for cosmetic appeal
- Are unhappy with the asymmetrical breasts
- Want to restore breast volume following pregnancy or weight loss
- Need correction of congenital defects in one or both breasts
- Need to go through breast reconstruction with implants
Customizing the Procedure
An experienced cosmetic surgeon will customize breast augmentation to meet the unique needs of a patient. Customizability of this procedure is one of the reasons for its popularity. The patient will closely engage with the surgeon to determine what should be the size and type of breast implants, what surgical technique should be applied, where the incisions may be located, and how the implants should be placed in the breast tissue.
Types of Implants
Patients will have option to choose between saline and silicone implants, both of which are FDA approved. Silicone implants are more popular because of their more natural touch and feel and better aesthetics. Implant sizes range from 120 cc to 960 cc, and the shapes may be round or anatomical. Dr. Bloom receives patients from Chicago, IL, and nearby areas for breast augmentation.
Incision and Implant Placement
Incisions for breast augmentation may be placed along the breast crease at the base of the breast, in the underarm, or around the lower half of the areola. In exceptional cases, a TUBA incision around the navel may also be used. Implants can be placed above the pectoral muscle, behind the breast tissue or under the pectoral muscle. The surgeon will help the patient make these decisions during the surgical planning process.
Surgical Procedure
Breast augmentation surgery may be performed with the patient under general anesthesia or IV sedation. Incisions will be discreetly placed in pre-determined locations, and the surgeon will create a breast pocket to accommodate the implants. The implant will inserted through the incision and placed in the pre-planned position and adjusted into its place. Incisions will be closed with removable or dissolvable sutures.
Recovery
Most patients will be able to return to their regular routine or go back to work in about 10 to 14 days. Bruising will subside from the second week, but swelling will gradually disappear over several weeks or months.