Breast enlargement is a cosmetic surgery procedure involving surgical placement of saline or silicone implants in the breast tissue to increase their size. In recent years, the procedure has emerged as the second most popular surgery in the US after liposuction. Nearly 4.5 million breast enlargement surgeries were performed in the country between 1997 and 2012.
Following the FDA approvals for saline and silicone implants, and the recent development of advanced qualities in highly cohesive silicone implants, the procedure has gained wider acceptance due to enhanced aesthetic outcomes.
Need for Breast Enlargement
A majority of patients seek breast enlargement surgery for cosmetic purposes to achieve larger or more voluptuous looking breasts. However, some patients may have under-developed breasts, or asymmetrical breasts. These conditions can also be corrected with breast implant surgery.
If the patient has gone through mastectomy, the surgeon may perform breast enlargement as a part of breast reconstruction procedure. Dr. Bryson Richards is an experienced plastic surgeon providing breast enlargement and other procedures for the breast, body and face to patients in Las Vegas, NV, and surrounding communities.
Surgical Approaches
Patient satisfaction levels in breast enlargement plastic surgery procedure are typically higher because of the high degree of customization that can be done in this procedure. Patients usually have a choice between saline, silicone and gummy bear implants, which are available in various sizes, shapes, and textures. Surgical approach can also be adapted in accordance with breast anatomy and unique aesthetic needs of a patient.
The implant can be placed submuscularly or subglandularly. The incision may be placed in the armpit, around the areola, in the breast crease, or even transumbilically in some cases. The cosmetic surgeon will discuss all treatment approaches with the patient and help her choose the best options in her case. Dr. Richards receives patients from Las Vegas, NV, and nearby locations.
Procedure
The surgery can be performed using general anesthesia or IV sedation. The procedure will begin with the surgeon making the incision in the pre-determined location. Through the incision a breast pocket will be carved for the implant. The implant will then be placed either in front of the pectoral muscle and behind the breast tissue, or below the pectoral muscle.
Once the implants have been adjusted into the desired position, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures. The breasts will be covered with bandages immediately after the surgery to provide support. The surgeon will also provide a surgical bra, which must be worn for a few weeks for extra support. The surgeon may place drains to collect excess fluid in the first few days after surgery to reduce the risk of infection.
Recovery
The patient will feel mild pain and discomfort in the treated area for the first few days, which can be managed with pain medications. The incision site should be kept clean in order to minimize the risk of infection. Vigorous exercises should be avoided for the first few weeks. Most patients can return to work in about 10 to 14 days.
If you would like more information on cosmetic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada plastic surgeon, Dr. Bryson Richards please contact us at 702.870.7070