FAQ
 

What is breast augmentation?

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure whereby breast implants are used to increase the size of the breast.

Can I undergo breast augmentation?

Breast augmentation can be carried out for following reasons: 1. If for personal reason you feel your breast size is small. 2 loss of breast volume following pregnancy or weight loss 3. To correct the difference in breast size. Or 4. To reconstruct breast following breast surgery.

Can breast augmentation be done if the breast are sagging?

Sagging of the breast is often seen after weight loss and after pregnancy. Mild sagging can usually be corrected with breast implant itself. However more severe sagging requires a separate surgery to lift the breast. Ideally the breast lift should be done first followed by breast augmentation 3 to 6 months later.

What is breast implant made of?

Breast implant is a synthetic device the shell (outer covering) of which is made of silicone. The filling inside this shell can either be saline (salt water) or silicone gel and they are called saline or silicone implant. It is important to note that the shell of both saline and silicone implant is made of silicone.

Which implant to choose - saline or silicone?

Following information is for guidance only and the final choice can be made only after discussion with your doctor.

There are no studies which show that the saline implant is better or safer then silicone implant or vice versa.

Which are the companies manufacturing breast implants?

Mentor and McGhan are US based company and have FDA approval to market Saline implants. They cost approximately Rs 45000 (900 US$)for a pair. They come with 5-year warranty. The warranty only covers the cost of implant. Eurosilicone is France based company and they market their product in Europe and UK. They are MDA approved and CE certified. They cost approximately Rs 25000 (550 US$) for a pair and do not come with a warranty.

What are the different shapes of implant available?

There are two shapes of implant available- round or teardrop (anatomical) shaped. Round implants are the one, which are most commonly used for breast augmentation. As mentioned above they cost between Rs 25000 to Rs 45000. Tear drop shaped implants are rarely used in breast augmentation and are more commonly used for breast reconstruction (after surgery for breast cancer).  They are also more expensive costing around Rs 90000.

What size of the implant will be used?

The size of the implant will depend on your desire, your doctor’s judgement, and the breast tissue characteristics. Commonly the implants vary in size between 200 to 350 cc.

Is there any other technique to increase the size of the breast?

Breast implant is the only technique to increase the size of breast. Bust cream, exercise, fat injections etc. do not increase the size of breast.

What tests do I require to undergo prior to breast augmentation?

Blood tests are required prior to any surgery. Additional tests such as x-ray, cardiogram, physician check-up etc may be required depending on your health status. These tests are carried out for your safety.

What sort of anaesthesia will be given?

For breast augmentation you will be required to be put to sleep (general anaesthesia).

What incision will be used?

Incision under the breast in the fold is the most commonly used. For saline implant incision around the nipple can also be used. Rarely incision in the axillae is used. Incision rarely exceeds 4 to 5 cms and usually leaves a faint scar.

Where is the implant placed- behind or in front of the muscle?

Preferable position of the implant is behind the muscle as it reduces the chance of capsular contracture and also the implant is less likely to be visible or palpable, especially in thin patients. However if the patient is sport or gym enthusiast then it is best to place the implant in front of the muscle.

What to expect immediately after the operation?

There will be a small dressing covering the area of incision. For your comfort a snugly fitting sports bra can be worn immediately after the surgery. Drainage tubes are usually removed in 24 to 48 hours. Hospital stay is for 1 or 2 nights. You should expect some swelling and numbness over the breast. The swelling will subside in 3 to 4 week’s time. Sensation over the breast and nipple usually recovers in 2 to 3 month’s time.

When can I get back to normal routine?

You will be up and about within 24 hours of the surgery. You can resume light activity within a week’s time. Heavy activity such as going to the gymnasium can be safely done after 3 to 4 weeks. However every individual is different. You should increase your level of activity according to your comfort level.

What are the risks?

Majorities of the patient are satisfied after surgery. However like any surgery breast augmentation may have side effects. These are likely to happen in less then 5% of the patients. Capsular contracture- the fibrous wall (capsule) around the implant shrinks which may cause the breast to feel firm. This requires surgery in the form of excision of the capsule and replacement of the same or new implant. Rarely due to wear and tear the implant can rupture. Rupture of the implant is harmless. It can be easily removed and if the patient desires can be replaced with another implant.

What size will I be after breast augmentation?

On an average the bra size will increase by 2 sizes. However it can be less or more depending on your wishes and the surgeon’s assessment.

Outcome of breast augmentation?

Majority of the women (>90%) are happy and satisfied following breast augmentation.

Information in more detail can be had from the following site:

1.http://www.fda.gov/cdrh/breastimplants/

2.http://www.silicone-review.gov.uk/