Breast Enlargement

The breast enlargement, technically known as an augmentation mammaplasty, is a surgical procedure performed to enhance the size and shape of a woman's breast.

Patient Assessment

• Breasts that are too small.
• Lack of normal proportion with chest size and overall physique.
• Breasts that have atrophied (gotten small) after childbearing.
• To improve a difference in breast size.
• To adjust a reduction in breast volume after pregnancy.
• As a reconstructive alternative following breast surgery.

Intended Result

• Fully shaped breasts of the desired shape.

Procedure

• Procedure is performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia administered by an M.D. anesthesiologist or Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist in the outpatient surgery center in our office, or as an outpatient at a local hospital with no overnight stay.
• Incision can be made in one of three places: an infra-mammary incision hidden below the breast, an axilla incision through the armpit (transaxillary endoscopic breast augmentation), or a periareolar ("nipple") incision around the lower border of the areola.
• Surgeon creates a pocket either directly under the breast tissue or underneath the chest wall muscle. A breast implant is inserted and the incision is closed.

Recovery

• Patient goes home with a light dressing and a support bra. Sutures are under the skin and will dissolve after healing is complete. A soft brassiere is worn for a few weeks.
• There will be some post-operative pain for a few days but it is easily controlled by medication.
• Light activities may be resumed in a week to 10 days, more vigorous activities in two to four weeks.

Other Procedures

• A breast uplift, also known as mastopexy, may be used in conjunction with breast enlargement to enhance the overall position of the new breasts. *Please discuss this option with the doctor.

Insurance Considerations

• Breast enlargement is considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by medical insurance. The patient is responsible for payment of surgical and related costs.
• More information about payment and financing.

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