Breast augmentation, also known as breast enlargement or augmentation mammoplasty or breast implant, is a cosmetic procedure in which implants are inserted into the breasts to increase the size and shape of the breasts.

This type of surgery is usually done on women who want to increase the size of their breasts for cosmetic purposes or to regain lost breast volume due to pregnancy, weight loss, or ageing.

Types of Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation can be divided into four main types

Saline implants: Saline implants are filled with a sterile saltwater solution that gives the breasts a consistent shape, firmness and feel.

Silicone implants: Silicone implants are filled with silicone gel that gives the breasts the appearance and feel of real breast tissue.

Fat transfer: Fat transfer is a natural way to increase the size of the breasts. It involves harvesting fat from one part of the body, purifying it, and then injecting it into the breasts.

Gummy bear implants: Gummy bear implants are designed to keep the shape and firmness of the breasts even if the silicone implant shell bursts.

Why is Breast Augmentation Surgery Done?

Breast augmentation surgery is performed to increase the size of the breasts, improve the shape of the breasts, correct asymmetry or uneven appearance, restore breast volume loss from surgery or injury, reconstruct a breast after treatment of breast cancer, overcome breast sagging, and more.

Before the Procedure

Before the procedure, the doctor will help you choose the right implants for your body. This can be done by putting different implants into your bra to see if you feel comfortable with them. Some tests may also be done to check for breast abnormalities. The surgeon will ask you to stop eating and drinking for 24 hours before your surgery. You should also wear loose clothing, such as a loose fitting bra with no underwire. Your breast specialist doctor will explain everything you need to know about your breast lump treatment procedure, how long it will take, and how your recovery will go.

During the Procedure

Breast enlargement treatment usually takes place under general anaesthesia and can take up to 2 hours. 

• The procedure begins with consultation, where the surgeon will look at the patient’s medical history, do a physical exam, and decide what the best outcome is for the patient. 
• The patient will receive general anaesthesia during the procedure to ensure the patient is comfortable and not in pain.
• The surgeon will make incisions in one of three areas: along the underside of breast (most common), around the nipple, or under the underarm (only for selected women).
• The aesthetic surgeon will then place the implants into a pocket that will be either behind or under the breast muscle. The surgeon will then close the incision using sutures/surgical tape.
• The patient will then be monitored in the recovery room and can be discharged the same day after the procedure.

After the Procedure

After the procedure, the patient’s breast will be covered with a gauze or surgical bra. Some pain, swelling, and tenderness may occur after the surgery, and may last for one month or longer. Depending on the patient’s skin type, the scars may disappear in two to three months. Over time, most women’s scars will become thin lines. The surgeon will prescribe medications to help with pain and nausea, as well as ways to care for the area.

The patient should be able to go back to work in a few weeks, but it is important to avoid strenuous activity that could raise blood pressure or pulse rate for at least two weeks. Make sure to ask your surgeon about a follow-up visit schedule, as well as the necessary precautions.

Risks Associated with Breast Augmentation

Like any other surgery, breast augmentation surgery carries some risks. These include infection, excessive bleeding, scarring, implant ruptures, capsular contracture, and effects of general anesthesia.

Benefits of Breast Augmentation

Breast enlargement surgery can provide many advantages for women, such as increased self-confidence, enhanced appearance, given many clothing options, and reconstruction after a mastectomy for breast cancer. It can also correct breast asymmetry, which is caused by developmental problems or injuries.