Click here additional photos of other patients who received a Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure to improve and enhance the size of a woman’s breast. The procedure is used to enlarge small breasts, to correct a reduction in breast volume after pregnancy and to balance different breast sizes.
Who is a candidate for breast augmentation?
- Women who desire larger breasts.
- Women with a small degree of breast sagging, whose problem can be solved by enlargement.
- Women who have one breast noticeably smaller than the other.
What results can I expect from breast augmentation surgery?
- Larger and shapelier breasts.
- An increase in self-esteem.
- To fit better in clothing.
What can I expect from the consultation with Dr. Schantz?
The consultation is designed to fully educate you about breast augmentation in a non-pressured environment. You can expect a discussion of your goals including the size you would like to be after surgery and an evaluation of your individual case, the options available in breast augmentation surgery, the likely outcomes and any risks or potential complications, and the course of treatment recommended by Dr. Schantz.
How long does the breast augmentation procedure take?
The procedure is performed at our fully accredited outpatient surgery center under IV sedation. Dr. Schantz requires you to arrive an hour prior to surgery. The procedure usually takes 1-1 ½ hours after a short stay in our recovery room you are discharged until the following day.
What incisions are used to place the breast implants?
A small incision is made under the breast, around the nipple, or in the armpit and a saline implant is inserted under the breast tissue or under the breast tissue and the underlying muscle.
How long is the recovery period?
The patient will go home in an elastic bra which helps hold the breasts in the correct position. Ice packs decrease swelling and bruising and along with oral medication is used for pain control. Sutures are usually removed in 7 days and light activities can be resumed as tolerated. Aerobic activities can be started in about 6 weeks. Dr. Schantz usually suggests patients take 5-7 days off from work.
What are other surgical procedures that may enhance the breast augmentation?
An additional procedure that would enhance the result is a Mastopexy (breast lift) if the breasts are saggy in addition to being small.
Are breast implants safe?
An exceptional discussion of the issue can be found at the FDA’s website or you can request they send you an information booklet by calling (800) 532-4440.
Who is a candidate for Silicone Implants?
The following conditions have been approved by the FDA:
- Patients who have had silicone implants before.
- Patients who require a breast lift with implants.
- Breast Cancer reconstruction patients.
- Patients with a chest wall abnormality.
Dr. Schantz personally prefers silicone over saline implants because they feel more natural. Silicone is also a better alternative where there is less breast tissue or the skin is very tight. It is probably (certainly our hope) that the FDA will allow the use of silicone implants for any patient who wants to have them in the very near future.
Related Procedures:
Breast Lift | Breast Lift with Implants | Laser Bra | Breast Reduction