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Why have a breast augmentation ?
Breast augmentation will increase the
size of the breast. Augmentation can also correct breast asymmetry and
help restore breast volume lost with breast feeding and / or ageing.
Breast augmentation can help correct minor degrees of breast drooping
(ptosis). All of the above will improve a patient’s
self esteem.
What options are available ?
The options are :
Implant
What the implant is filled with (saline or silicone gel).
Shape of the implant- anatomical (teardrop) or round
Surface of the implant (textured or smooth)
Low, medium or high profile projection
Incision
Incisions can be made in the crease underneath the breast, around the areola/
nipple or in the arm pit.
Pocket
The implant can be placed deeply underneath the muscle of the chest wall
(pectoralis) or on top of this muscle directly behind the breast tissue
itself.
How do I select the correct implant ?
The correct combination of the above choices
will be made at the time of your two pre operative consultations with Dr.
Belt. The size will be tailored to your choice, taking into account the
amount of your existing breast tissue, height, weight and body type.
A wide range of implants are available at the time of the consultation for
you to try. It is advisable to wear a crop top to the consultation so
you can try out the various sizes and shapes. It is important for your
partner (if you have one) to come along to one of the consultations and
for you to make a joint decision.
How long do implants last ?
The modern day implants are longer lasting than
the previous generations of implants. The true lifespan of the new implants
is unknown. The average life expectancy of the older implants is between
8 and 16 years.
Implants should not be considered as life long devices. Sometimes they
are removed or replaced because of the patient’s choice, for example
to replace with a bigger size. Occasionally the implants have to be removed
due to complications such as rupture or capsule formation.
Is silicone safe
?
There have been many large scientific studies looking at the
safety of silicone. There has been no convincing evidence that silicone
causes an increased risk of cancer. You should let Dr. Belt know if you
have a family history of breast cancer so he can organise pre operative
screening tests. After breast augmentation you need to let the radiographer
know when you undergo mammograms.
There has also been no evidence of increased risk of auto-immune diseases
with silicone implants.
What happens after the breast augmentation ?
Most people will plan to leave
hospital on the day of the procedure. You will be given a prescription
for strong painkillers after the operation. You will be advised to wear
a crop top for the first six weeks (day and night). I recommend that you
plan a very quiet week immediately after your surgery and avoid driving
for 2 weeks and vigorous exercise for 6 weeks.
The stitches are dissolvable and therefore don’t need removing.
You will be seen regularly after the operation at one week, two weeks,
six weeks and six and 12 months.
Am I able to breast feed after the operation?
Breast implants usually don’t interfere with breast feeding.
What
are the risks of breast augmentation?
The risks will be discussed with you
in detail before you consent to the operation. The risks can be broken
down into general risks associated with any operation, and those specific
to breast augmentation.
General operative risks include anaesthetic complications, bruising, bleeding,
infection, wound breakdown and abnormal scarring.
Specific complications include implant malposition, rupture, capsule formation,
capsular contraction, collections of fluid around the implant, wrinkles
or ripples in the skin, changes in sensation of the nipple and breast
skin, exposure of the implant and asymmetry.
What costs are involved ?
- Dr Belt’s surgical fee
- Assistant’s fee
- Theatre fee / day bed, and overnight bed if
not a day case
- Specialist anaesthetists fee
- Cost of implants
- Costs of sports bra / crop top
- Registration on Australian Breast implant
register (optional)
Please contact Dr. Belt’s rooms and his staff can answer any questions
you may have. A personalised quote and information can be sent to you
regarding your specific procedure.
Before and After photos
Roll over the image below to see the patient after surgery
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