| Dr. Joseph Gryskiewicz is a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Here the Doctor has answered some of the common questions Bizymoms visitors have about Breast Augmentation.
Q. What is breast augmentation?
A. Breast Augmentation is the most popular cosmetic procedure among women. The average age of women seeking breast augmentation is around 32; however they range from 18 to their 60’s. The patient is likely to have had children and breastfed them before wanting breast augmentation surgery. Breast augmentation enhances breast size and shape, restores breast volume, helps clothing fit better and correct asymmetries and differences in breast size.
I specialize in rapid-recovery breast augmentation, also known as the "no touch technique." It is a surgical procedure that uses special instruments and techniques to minimize tissue damage and avoid touching the ribs. It causes far less trauma to surrounding tissue than traditional approaches, and it dramatically reduces pain, suffering and recovery time. In our experience, 95 percent of women interviewed after the procedure returned to normal daily activities within 24 hours. Individual results may vary.
Seventeen percent of the augmentations in our practice are done with a dual-plane or "internal lift" approach to lift breast tissue, elevate the nipple-areola complex, and to release a tight breast crease. This is technically a breast enlargement procedure. The technique avoids the more extensive scars of an external "classic" lift and can be especially useful in fixing early sagging.
Silicone and saline implants are available. Silicone gel implants look more natural and feel softer. Studies show silicone implants do not increase the incidence of disease or the chances of developing breast or other cancers. Choosing the size is often a difficult decision. Measurements will be taken during the examination portion of the consultation to ascertain how you will carry the size of the implant. My staff and I will be exceptionally thorough in this very personal portion of the consultation.
Q. How is breast augmentation performed?
A. Breast augmentation involves making a small incision and raising the breast tissue to create an open pocket under the breast tissue or beneath the chest wall muscle to insert a breast implant. The surgery is performed on an outpatient basis at a same-day surgery center while the patient is under general anesthesia. There are several possible locations for the small incision that will be used for inserting the breast implant. The most frequent technique utilizes an incision made in the axilla (or armpit). Another technique, involves making an incision in the lower portion of the breast. A third technique makes an incision around the areola (the darker skin surrounding the nipple). The best technique will be decided together between the patient and the surgeon during the consultation.
Q. How long does breast augmentation surgery take?
A. Surgery typically lasts 1 to 1 ½ hours.
Q. Are there risks and complications to breast augmentation?
A. Implants can rupture. A rupture is usually caused by a small pinpoint leak that can develop on the implant’s edge. Implants need to be replaced if they rupture. Nipple numbness occurs in about three percent of cases. Other complications include capsular contracture, visible wrinkling and folds. Complications are rare.
Q. What should one expect after the operation?
A. Generally, post-operative instructions call for exercises and normal movement in order to speed up the healing process and recovery time. Bandages are applied to the incision. Patients sometimes report minor pain associated with the surgery. This pain can be treated effectively with oral pain medication. While complications are rare, patients can minimize potential problems by carefully following the directions given by the physician after surgery.
With rapid-recovery breast augmentation, there are three very important things to do after surgery: Get your arms over your head and do three arm raises every hour before going to bed; Don’t baby your breasts, because you can’t rupture or rip open your stitches; Lie on your breasts for 15 minutes every day starting on the evening of your surgery. Not only will you feel better but you will also lessen the risk of developing scar tissue around the implant.
Q. How much does breast augmentation cost?
A. Consultations are complimentary. The cost of surgery and all normal post-operative visits ranges from $5,443 to $7,572.
Q. How long do the results of breast augmentation last?
A. There is no need to replace an implant unless it ruptures. There are patients whose implants have been fine for almost 20 years and there are also a small percentage of patients whose implants have ruptured and needed replacement. With proper breast care, diet and exercise the results can be long lasting. |
