Breast implant surgery is the conventional and widely accepted method of improving breast size and shape. Women can choose from different types of FDA- approved breast implants such as saline, silicone gel, gummy bear and IDEAL. Plastic surgeons use a variety of techniques to insert the implant. Here is an overview of what breast implant surgery involves.
The first step is administering anesthesia, which may be intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. The surgeon will recommend the right option based on individual considerations.
- The next stage involves making the incision to place the implant. The methods available are: under the arm (Transaxillary Incision), through the belly button (Transumbilical Incision), around the nipple (Periareolar Incision), and under the breast (Inframmary Incision). As regards the ideal option for placement, this depends on various factors such as the type of breast implant, extent of augmentation desired, patient-surgeon preference, and the patient’s natural breast shape, available breast tissue, and skin thickness. Generally, the incisions are placed in a way as to minimize visible scarring.
Once the incision is made, the next step is inserting and placing the breast implant. This too depends on implant type, degree of enlargement desired, body type and the surgeon’s recommendations. A small pocket is created and the breast implant is inserted into it. Breast implants can be placed either over the pectoral muscle (directly behind the breast tissue) or under the pectoral muscle using any of the incisions mentioned above. There can be slight variations in the procedure depending on the type of implant. For instance, silicone implants come pre-filled with silicone gel and requires a larger incision to insert. On the other hand, the saline implant needs only a smaller incision as it is filled with a saline solution after placement.
- After the implant is inserted, the incisions are closed with layered sutures in the breast tissue and sutures, skin adhesive or surgical tape.
- Gauze dressings will be used to cover the breasts, you will need to use a bandage or support bra to reduce swelling and support the breasts during the healing stage.
The results of breast augmentation can be seen almost immediately. You can go home a few hours after the procedure. Take care to follow the plastic surgeon’s instructions on caring for your breasts and avoiding infection till healing is complete. It’s important that you keep your follow-up appointment with the surgeon.
Breast implant surgery is a popular cosmetic surgical procedure among women in New York City. Regardless of the implant type or technique chosen, reliable NYC plastic surgeons aim to maximize aesthetic outcomes and minimize complications. Women who have had multiple pregnancies before considering surgery may experience considerable loss of breast volume. In such cases, surgeons often recommend a breast lift in addition to augmentation to achieve the best results.