OUR PROCEDURES & SERVICES
Breast Augmentation (augmentation mammoplasty)
The Procedure
Breast Augmentation, technically known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure performed to enhance the shape and size of a woman's breasts for the following reasons: (1) to enlarge breast size, (2) to correct a breast volume reduction that may occur after pregnancy, (3) to correct an imbalance in breast size and (4) as a reconstructive technique following breast surgery.
The Method(s)
Depending on your anatomy and specific desires or concerns with scarring and pain, Dr. Chiu will recommend one of the four methods of inserting and positioning your implant: periareolar (around the nipple area), inframammary (beneath the breast), axillary (in a skin crease under the arm), or tranumbilical (through the belly button). The breast tissue and skin will be lifted through the incision, either above or underneath the chest wall muscle (pectoral muscle), to create a pocket. Your implants will then be positioned beneath the nipples.
Implant Size and Type
In some cases, secondary or revision rhinoplasty may be required, to correct problems that persisted or developed after the initial nose surgery. Many physicians also offer "non-surgical nose jobs," in which injections of facial fillers alter minor areas around nose. Though this approach can be more affordable and performed in less time than traditional plastic surgery, it has limitations.
Ideal Candidate
Ideal candidates for breast augmentation are women seek improvement, not perfection, in their physical appearance. Physically healthy women with realistic expectations are great candidates.
Surgery and Anesthesia
Dr. Chiu will perform your breast augmentation in a fully-accredited surgery center or in a hospital outpatient facility. Breast augmentation can be performed in one to two hours with general anesthesia, allowing you to sleep through the entire operation. Local anesthesia, though rarely recommended, combined with a sedative can also be used. In this case, you will be awake and may feel slight discomfort. Click here for information about our Pain Management options.
Recovery
For a few days following a breast augmentation procedure, you are likely to feel tired and sore. However, most of your discomfort can be controlled with prescribed medication. The majority of patients are up and around in 24 to 48 hours, and return to work within 4 days. The full recovery period is specific to each individual as well as to the level of activity required with her daily functions. Within your one-week post operation visit, your gauge dressings will be removed and you may be given a surgical bra. You will also be given massaging instructions to prevent implants from hardening. Since Dr. Chiu uses absorbable sutures, no stitch removal is required. Specific post operative instructions are provided to our patients before and on the day of surgery.
Risks
Although breast augmentation is relatively straightforward, there are risks associated with surgery and specific complications associated with this procedure. These include: capsular contracture, infection around an implant, change in sensitivity of the nipples, and implant breakage and leakage. While only a small percentage of women actually experience these complications, it is important for you to understand the risks and consequences of a breast augmentation procedure. Dr. Chiu will discuss specific information regarding these risks with you during the consultation.
Your New Look
Many women who have undergone breast augmentation are extremely satisfied with their fuller appearance, most stating its positive effect on personal self-confidence and outlook. The decision to have breast augmentation is a highly personal one, and it is the goal of Dr. Chiu and Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Inc. to customize a safe and effective surgical program to help you achieve your desired appearance.
*Some information extracted from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons
