Breast augmentation surgery is performed to enhance the size and shape of a woman's breast. If you often wish that your breasts were larger or shapelier, breast augmentation may be the right choice for you. Women who feel that their breasts are too small, or want to restore the volume of their breasts after pregnancy often opt for breast augmentation to feel more feminine and attractive. Breast augmentation surgery also can be done to correct asymmetry, when one breast is noticeably larger than the other. 

Breast augmentation has seen itself through times of controversy and, thankfully, is now more widely accepted. Although a very personal decision, breast implant surgery should never be undergone for reasons other than your own self fulfillment. If a patient has realistic expectations knowing that the surgery can bring improvement, but not perfection, and has fully accepted the possible risks and responsibility, breast augmentation can be a very rewarding experience.

Breast augmentation surgery, technically known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure to enhance the size and shape of a woman's breast for a number of reasons:

• To enhance the body contour of a woman who, for personal reasons, feels her breast size is too small. 
• Weight loss has changed the size and shape of her breasts
• To correct a reduction in breast volume and firmness after pregnancy. 
• To balance a difference in breast size. 
• Dresses that fit well around hips are often too large at the bustline.
• As a reconstructive technique following breast surgery. 
• Woman feels self-conscious wearing a swimsuit

By inserting an implant behind each breast, surgeons are able to increase a woman's bustline by one or more bra cup sizes. For women considering breast augmentation surgery, this page will give a basic understanding of the implant procedure. Please ask Dr. Graham if there is anything you don't understand about the surgery.

Best candidates for breast augmentation surgery
Breast augmentation can enhance your appearance and self-confidence, but it won't necessarily change your looks to match your ideal. Before you decide to have this breast surgery, think carefully about your expectations and discuss them with Dr. Graham

The best candidates for breast enlargement are women who are looking for improvement, not perfection, in the way they look. If you're physically healthy and realistic in your expectations, you may be a good candidate for this surgery.

Types of breast implants
A breast implant is a silicone shell filled with either silicone gel or a salt-water solution known as saline.

Because of concerns that there is insufficient information demonstrating the safety of silicone gel-filled breast implants, the FDA has determined that new gel-filled implants, at the present time, should be available only to women participating in approved breast studies. Some women requiring replacement of the implants may also be eligible to participate in the study. Dr. Graham is an investigator for silicone breast implants

Saline-filled implants continue to be available to breast augmentation patients on an unrestricted basis, pending further FDA review. If you have any questions call Dr. Graham's office in Boca Raton for  more specifics about the FDA decisions.
Implant surgery is relatively straightforward. But as with any operation, there could be complications associated with this procedure:

• Capsular contracture occurs if the scar or capsule around the implant begins to tighten. This can be treated in several ways.
• Occasionally, breast implants may break or leak. This will require a second surgery and replacement of the leaking implant.
• A few women with breast implants have reported symptoms similar to diseases of the immune system. Research has found NO clear link between silicone breast implants and the symptoms of "connective-tissue disorders," but the FDA continues further study.

There is no evidence that breast implants will affect fertility, pregnancy, or the ability to nurse. 

Breast implants may change the way mammography is done. When you request a routine mammogram, be sure to go to a radiology center where technicians are experienced in the techniques required to get a reliable x-ray of a breast with an implant. Ultrasound examinations may be of benefit in some women with implants to detect breast lumps or to evaluate the implant.

Planning the breast surgery
In your initial consultation, Dr. Graham will evaluate your health and explain which surgical techniques are most appropriate for you, based on the condition of your breasts and skin tone. If your breasts are sagging, the doctor may also recommend a breast lift surgery.

Preparation:
Dr. Graham will give the patient instructions to prepare for breast enlargement surgery:

• Guidelines on eating, drinking, and taking or avoiding certain medications before surgery.
• Stopping smoking before and after surgery
• Arranging for help or special care following surgery

The Breast Surgery
Dr. Graham prefers to perform the operation in his accredited Boca Raton office facility in South Florida , or a hospital outpatient facility. Breast augmentation is usually performed with IV sedation. You may also choose general anesthesia.

The method of inserting and positioning your implant will depend on your anatomy and Dr. Graham's recommendation. The incision is small and is usually made in one of three locations: underneath the breast just above the crease; around the lower edge of the areola; or within the armpit. 
Working through the incision, the surgeon will lift your breast tissue and skin to create a pocket, either directly behind the breast tissue or underneath your chest wall muscle. The implants are then centered beneath your nipples. Anatomic tear drop shaped implants are available and may be optimal in certain patients, depending on their anatomy and the look they desire. The breast implant surgery usually takes one to two hours to complete. Dr. Graham believes that putting the implants behind your chest muscle provides a more natural look. 


AFTER YOUR SURGERY
You're likely to feel tired and sore for a few days following your breast enlargement surgery, but you'll be up and around in 24 to 48 hours. Most of your discomfort can be controlled by medication.
You should be able to return to work within a few days, depending on the level of activity required for your job. Your breasts will probably be sensitive to direct stimulation for two weeks. After that, breast contact is fine once your breasts are no longer sore.
Routine mammograms should be continued after breast augmentation for women who are in the appropriate age group.


YOUR NEW LOOK
For many women, the result of breast augmentation surgery can be satisfying, as they learn to appreciate their fuller appearance. If you are like most women who have the augmentation procedure, you'll be very pleased with the results of your breast enlargement. 

Your decision to have breast augmentation is a highly personal one that not everyone will understand. The important thing is how you feel about it. If you've met your goals, then your surgery is a success. You are likely to be happy with your results for many years. However keep in mind that your breasts are not immune to the effects of weight and aging.

This page contains only basic information about breast augmentation surgery. However, the best way to get complete answers to specific questions related to your individual needs is to have a personal consultation with plastic surgeon Dr. Graham.

Call our Boca Raton office at 561-395-1100 for a free consultation. During this first meeting, the surgeon will assess your physical and emotional health and discuss your specific cosmetic goals for breast surgery.