Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is an operation to increase the size of the breasts. This is usually achieved by placing an artificial implant under the skin or muscle of the chest.
Aesthetic or cosmetic reasons for breast enlargement include:
• Feeling that the breasts are simply too small or out of proportion
• Loss of breast volume after pregnancy
• Difference in size between the two breasts
• Breast size that has reduced after losing weight
• Breast surgery may also be offered to women having surgery for breast cancer or other rare conditions affecting the size and shape of the breasts.
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Breast augmenatation is usually done under general anesthetic and may be performed as a day case, without the need for an overnight stay in hospital.
Breast implants are usually made from silicone or saline.
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The implant is inserted through incisions on, or near, the breasts. The exact position of the incision varies, but can be in the crease under the breast, around the nipple or towards the armpit. After making the incision, the surgeon makes a small space into which the implant is placed. This pocket is beneath the breast skin or under the chest muscle. The incision is closed with stitches, and bandages or dressings are applied over the wound. The procedure usually takes between one and two hours.