Cosmetic Breast Surgery
Breast Augmentation
Breast Augmentation is one of the single most requested procedures in our practice. Patients come from all walks of life and ages. Patients frequently complain of clothing, activity and self-image issues that have been long-standing and frustrating. Most patients who seek this operation simply want to feel balanced. Breasts that are smaller than your body build “expects” can impact clothing choices, activities and many other simple issues in life to be more complex. Larger breasts will not make everything in your life better…however, it can enhance many aspects of life and help you achieve the balance that you desire.
There are many ways to perform this procedure. Saline vs. Silicone……above the muscle vs. below the muscle…..placement of incision…… size of implants…. There are so many questions that patients have about this procedure. Dr. Fulks has been doing this procedure for many years and uses all acceptable approaches. Through careful evaluation, he will guide you through these choices and help you understand the advantages and disadvantages to each of these choices. Engaging patients in these choices is our goal.
Dr. Fulks will spend time with each patient to assure appropriate understanding of this operation.
Who is a Candidate?
- Women who desire larger breasts.
- Women with a moderate degree of breast sagging and smaller breasts, whose problem can be solved by enlargement.
- Women who have one breast that is noticeably smaller than the other.
Intended Result
- Larger and more shapely breasts.
- A more positive self- image.
Procedure Description
- The procedure is done on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia.
- A small incision is made under the breast and a saline or silicone implant is inserted under the breast tissue or under the breast tissue and the underlying muscle.
Recuperation and Healing
- The patient goes home in a bra. The bra helps hold the breasts in the correct position during the initial healing time.
- Initial discomfort is controlled with oral medication.
- Sutures usually dissolve.
- Light activities can be resumed as tolerated. Aerobic activities can be started in about 3 weeks.
- This is general information to prepare patients for surgery and not a reference for our post-operative patients.
Other Options
An additional procedure that would enhance the result is Mastopexy (breast lift) -- if the breasts are saggy in addition to being small.
The specific risks and the suitability of this procedure for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are rare.
