Breast Enlargement INTRODUCTION Breast enlargement - increasing the volume and shaping the breast tissue through breast implant surgery, has become more popular, as the techniques for breast enlargement have been refined and the choices of breast implants improved. In many countries, Australia and New Zealand included, the silicone cohesive gel breast implants are more popular then those filled with saline, however the reverse is true in the USA. The choice of shape - round or tapered, volume and filler for the breast implant will be made with the surgeon. There are many options and each must be considered before proceeding with breast implants or breast enlargement. PROMOTED TECHNIQUES The incision for the breast implant may be placed under the arm, under the natural fold of the breast, under the nipple or inside the belly button. Each incision has its limitations for example, it would not be possible to insert a pre formed silicone gel implant through the belly button. The choice of placement of the incision will depend on the style, shape and size of the breast implant chosen. Positioning of the breast implant either under or over the chest muscle, depends on the amount of breast tissue available before the operation and the condition of the breasts. A larger percentage of implants are placed under the muscle, as this gives a more natural look, the breast implant is less likely to ripple, be seen or felt through the skin.

Surgery in Paradise

SURGICAL STATISTICS
Steps of the operation
• Anaesthetising the breast with local anaesthetic,
• “Sizing” to check the breast implant volume is correct by making a small incision through the skin,
• lifting the breast tissue and separating the muscle to make a pocket precisely the same size as the breast  implant
• Breast implant will be inserted, positioning the implant and closing the incision.

The breast enlargement operation normally takes 1 to 1.5 hours and should be performed in a registered day hospital, with a full medical team including an anaesthetist. There are options in the type of anaesthetic, either a full general anaesthetic or a local anaesthetic and sedation. This should be discussed in detail prior to surgery.

Post operatively, the surgeon may use a compression bandage or support bra for the first 3 days, some surgeons will cover only the incision site. Drain tubes are rarely used in modern day breast surgery and almost all patients return home or are offered post operative care outside the hospital.

COSTS
Approximately $4000 to $7000
Implants $1000 to $3000.
Hospital $1000 to $2500.
Anaesthetist $800 - $1000.
All prices are subject to GST.

MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I choose the size and shape of my breasts?
The outcome of this surgery will be limited by the original condition of the breast tissue available before the operation. To make the breasts very large may require two procedures and to lift slightly sagging breasts may also require an uplift.

Is it painful?
Expect to be in some pain from one to three days post operatively. Pain relief may be necessary and the surgeon or anaesthetist will arrange this.

Will breast implants last forever?
Each manufacturer of prothesis offers a guarantee. Be sure to read this before proceeding

WHAT CAN GO WRONG?
• The breast implant can move if the pocket is not precisely the correct size;
• The breast can feel hard if the scar tissue capsule formed around the breast implant were to contract;
• The breasts look and feel unnatural - if the breast implant is incorrectly positioned;
• The incision can keloid and form a raised or red scar.

HOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT
The Cosmetic Surgery Report can advise you on how to avoid disappointment with breast enlargement. Please call us on 1800 682 777 for further information.

This information is not intended for use as Medical advice. Any medical related questions should be given to your doctor.


© Pamela Noon 2003
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