Breast Augmentation
What is a Breast Augmentation?
Many women who are unhappy with the size and shape of their breasts may benefit from a Breast Augmentation surgery. Dr. Niki Christopoulos uses both saline and silicone implants to provide a fuller and more shapely silhouette while improving overall breast contour.
If you have severely drooping breasts, a breast augmentation can be combined with a breast lift in order to improve the overall result. This is seen more often in women after pregnancy or weight loss where the combination of loss of breast volume and stretched out skin create drooping and deflated breasts. A breast lift can be performed in conjunction with a breast augmentation, or less frequently, as a separate procedure.
During your initial consultation, Niki Christopoulos, MD, FACS will discuss all of your options with you, including type of implant (saline vs. silicone), location of implant (fully under the pectoralis muscle, partially under the muscle, or above the muscle), as well as location of incision (under the breast or inframammary, around the areola, or in the armpit).
Am I a good candidate for a Breast Augmentation?
Ideal candidates for Breast Augmentation surgery are patients who wish to:
- Increase the overall size and projection of the breasts
- Correct naturally occurring breast asymmetries that may be present
- Restore volume and fullness that was lost during pregnancy or weight loss
- Improve the overall balance and shape of your figure
Dr. Niki Christopoulos’ Approach to a Breast Augmentation procedure
Incisions are placed in inconspicuous areas on the breast to minimize visible scarring. These include under the breast (inframammary), around the areola, or in a skin crease of the armpit (transaxillary). Dr. Christopoulos will guide you through the decision making process to determine the most appropriate incision for you, based upon your anatomy, size and type of implant chosen, and desired outcome.
Implants can be placed under the pectoralis muscle (either completely or partially) or on top of the muscle. There are certain advantages to placement under the muscle such as reduced risk of capsular contracture (scar tissue and tightening that can form around the implant), less interference with mammography, and less visible rippling or wrinkling of the implants. Placement of implants on top of the muscle is also advantageous in certain women.
Dr. Christopoulos is a double-board certified plastic surgeon and performs her surgeries in a fully accredited outpatient surgical facility. Anesthesia is administered by an anesthesiologist using either intravenous sedation or general anesthesia for your comfort and safety during the procedure. The procedure can take anywhere from 1-3 hours, although complicated procedures may take longer.
Breast Augmentation Recovery and Results
The length of recovery depends on the type of procedure you have performed and the healing process does vary from individual to individual. It is natural to expect some bruising, swelling and numbness after your procedure. Most patients are able to resume daily activities within a few days and most can return to work within one week. Dr. Christopoulos will advise you to refrain from strenuous activity for several weeks after your surgery and will also guide you on the proper type of bra to wear as well as the proper massage techniques that are part of the healing process.
Schedule a consultation today with Dr. Christopoulos to discuss further any questions you may have and to determine what type of breast augmentation is correct for you.