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Breast Enlargement Surgery

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Breast enlargement surgery is a cosmetic surgery that enhances the size and shape of the breasts through the use of breast implants. Breast implant surgery is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures that American women seek. The number of women seeking this procedure doubled from 1997 to 2003 and approximately 300 thousand people had breast enlargement surgery in 2003. The average cost of breast enlargement surgery ranges between three and nine thousand dollars, not including some related costs.

Breast enlargement surgery is most appropriate for women who are emotionally and physically healthy who wish to enhance the appearance of their breasts. Good candidates for breast enlargement surgery understand the benefits and risks associated with the procedure and have a realistic understanding of what to expect before, during, and after their breast enlargement surgery. Before deciding if breast enlargement surgery is a good option, patients will want to consult a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon who can decide what breast enlargement surgery procedure is most appropriate.

Techniques and Placement


There are many options available for breast enlargement surgery. Breast implants vary by shell surface, shape, profile, volume, and shell thickness. Saline implants are most commonly used in breast enlargement surgery and can possess a fixed volume, be filled during the operation, or be able to be manipulated after the breast enlargement surgery is complete.

There are many techniques that can be used when performing breast enlargement surgery.

  • The transaxillary technique uses an incision in the armpit area in order to insert breast implants, which results in less noticeable scars after the procedure.
  • Periareolar surgery involves an incision made around the areola which can also reduce the appearance of scars.
  • Inframammary technique uses an incision under the breast known as the breast fold.
  • Transumbilical procedures involve the insertion of implants through an incision in the belly button. Each breast enlargement surgery technique carries its own risks and benefits.

There are also different placement sites for implants in breast enlargement surgery.

  • Subglandular placement places the implant behind the glandular tissues which is associated with less surgery time, and less difficulty with re-operation.
  • Submuscular or subpectoral placement positions the implant behind the breast muscles. The benefits of this procedure include less recovery time, a lower probability of implant palpability, and less difficulty with mammographic imaging techniques.

Breast enlargement surgery can be performed on an inpatient or outpatient basis and is usually performed under a general anesthesia. During the first month or so of recovery, breast enlargement surgery patients usually experience any or all of these symptoms: pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, bleeding, and nausea.




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