Our Summary

This paper describes a surgical technique for breast augmentation that also improves the position of the nipples. The authors have been performing this surgery since 2009 on 85 patients and have consistently achieved good results. It’s particularly suitable for patients who want larger breasts and have nipples that droop slightly, but who don’t have too much excess skin on the lower part of the breast. The paper goes into detail about how the procedure is managed before, during, and after surgery, as well as when it should be used and some common problems that can occur.

FAQs

  1. What is the surgical technique for breast augmentation that also improves the position of the nipples?
  2. Who are the ideal candidates for this type of breast augmentation surgery?
  3. What are some common problems that can occur with this surgical technique for breast augmentation?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip that a doctor might tell a patient about breast augmentation is to follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions carefully. This can include avoiding certain medications, alcohol, and smoking before surgery, as well as wearing a supportive bra and taking prescribed medications after surgery. Following these instructions can help ensure a successful outcome and minimize the risk of complications.

Suitable For

In general, patients who are recommended for breast augmentation are those who are dissatisfied with the size or shape of their breasts and wish to enhance their appearance. This includes:

  1. Patients who have naturally small breasts and desire larger breasts for cosmetic reasons.
  2. Patients who have lost breast volume due to weight loss, pregnancy, or aging.
  3. Patients who have asymmetrical breasts and wish to achieve a more balanced appearance.
  4. Patients who have undergone mastectomy and wish to restore their breasts.
  5. Patients who have a congenital deformity or breast abnormality that they wish to correct.

It is important for patients considering breast augmentation to have realistic expectations and to understand the risks and potential complications associated with the procedure. Patients should also be in good overall health and have stable mental health. Ultimately, the decision to undergo breast augmentation should be made in consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon who can assess the individual patient’s needs and goals.

Timeline

Before breast augmentation:

  • Consultation with a plastic surgeon to discuss goals, expectations, and any concerns
  • Pre-operative evaluation to ensure the patient is a good candidate for surgery
  • Decision on implant type, size, and placement
  • Pre-operative instructions to follow, including avoiding certain medications and foods

During breast augmentation:

  • Anesthesia is administered before the surgery begins
  • Incisions are made in the desired location (such as under the breast crease or around the areola)
  • Implants are inserted and positioned correctly
  • Incisions are closed and bandaged

After breast augmentation:

  • Recovery period with some discomfort, swelling, and bruising
  • Follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns
  • Gradual return to normal activities and exercise
  • Long-term care to maintain the results of the surgery, including monitoring for any changes in the implants or complications

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and potential complications associated with breast augmentation surgery?

  2. What type of implants do you recommend for me and why?

  3. How long is the recovery process and what can I expect in terms of pain and discomfort?

  4. Will I need to have additional surgeries in the future to maintain the results of the breast augmentation?

  5. How will my nipples be repositioned during the surgery and what kind of scarring can I expect?

  6. Are there any specific pre-operative instructions I should follow before the surgery?

  7. What kind of post-operative care will be required and how soon can I resume normal activities?

  8. How long do the results of the breast augmentation typically last?

  9. Can you show me before and after photos of patients who have had similar procedures?

  10. What are the qualifications and experience of the surgical team who will be performing the breast augmentation?

Reference

Authors: Austin RE, Saheb-Al-Zamani M, Lista F, Ahmad J. Journal: Aesthet Surg J. 2019 Aug 22;39(9):953-965. doi: 10.1093/asj/sjz128. PMID: 31056674