Breast Augmentation - Breast Enlargement

Breast Augmentation or Enlargement, also known as Augmentation Mammaplasty, is a procedure where breasts that are too small, asymmetric, or have shrunk, can be increased in size and improved in contour by the introduction of an implant behind the breast.

Thousands of women each year have breast implant surgery. The largest percentage of those seeking breast augmentation are women in their thirties with children, who have experienced gradual breast shrinkage following one or more pregnancies followed by women with under-developed breasts.

The procedure is used to restore fullness and can raise the breasts a little where the post-pregnancy change has resulted primarily in sagging with lesser degree of shrinkage. It is also employed in women with small breasts, as well as for women who just want bigger breasts. in selected cases, where removal of the breast is necessary because of malignant disease, restoration can be considered with the use of an implant. Modification must be consistent with the extent of the disease and must not compromise ultimate recovery.

Breast surgery has increased steadily in popularity since the 1960's when the first implant was developed. It is now estimated that more than three million women have undertaken this procedure world wide.

Background Information
At the request of two American Surgeons, development work on breast implants started in 1961 with the first silicone prosthesis implanted in 1962. The silicone gel was contained inside a contoured silicone envelope. In early 1990 when studies were undertaken to clarify the safety of these products an alternative was found. The alternative was the saline prosthesis. More recently a silicone cohesive gel has been used with great effect.

A moratorium of silicone implants began in the early 1990's. There is now extensive scientific literature stating that there is no convincing evidence that silicone gel implants cause cancer or connective tissue disease. Silicone cohesive gel implants are available at present and the use of the implants is being closely monitored. Implants are regarded as "therapeutic goods" and are registered.

Saline or salt water filled implants are also available, however the most popular implant chooses is the cohesive gel. The choices need to be discussed with your surgeon. Women who have had earlier version of silicone implants and have questions or anxieties, should contact their doctor and discuss their concerns.

How is it done?
The surgery may be done in hospital operating room or day surgery center. There are three types of incisions used for inserting breast implants: under the breast at the fold or crease line, around the edge of the areola (nipple), or an axillary incision which is made in one of the crease lines of the armpit. After the implants are in place, the incision is closed with stitches, a tape and dressing.

What are the risks?
Every surgical procedure involves some general risks that you should know about, the main ones being haematoma formation and or fluid accumulation, infection and unfavourable scar formation.

Capsular contractor can occur making the breast very hard and uncomfortable in some patients. It is caused by the formation of scar tissue around the implants which shrinks, squeezing it so hard it feels firm. It is, however, treatable surgically in most circumstances and does not constitute a health hazard or life threat.

Breakage, rupture or leakage of the implant can occur as a result of trauma, but the incidence is extremely low. When ruptures are known to exists, it may be appropriate to remove the implant and replace it. Spontaneous deflation and ruptures can occur with saline implants, which require surgery to remove and replace the implants. The saline passes out through the body via the kidneys.

Sensory changes in the nipple and breast can occur in some women following surgery. The breast can either become painfully sensitive or lose sensitivity. The changes are usually temporary

Can I choose my own shape or size?
The size of the implant must be determined by the surgeon. Selection is based upon the patients general stature and chest size, and the amount of breast tissue already present. Although some women might prefer to have the largest implant, there may not be sufficient room to accommodate it.

Summary
There is no data to suggest that silicone gel implants are associated with increased incidence of breast cancer, or autoimmune diseases.

Patients with implants may suffer from Rheumatoid Arthritis, Scleroderma, etc but to the present, there is no data to suggest that they are more likely to do so.

Implants may not last a lifetime, but our recommendation, and the recommendation of the FDA is that implants not be removed unless there are definite symptoms associated therewith, such as firmness or distortion of the breast.

The number of people with significant problems related to breast implants is about 1 in 2,000.

For further information and an initial complimentary consultation with a counselor, please contact your nearest Australian Aesthetic Surgery Centre.