Who is a good candidate for Breast Augmentation?
As with every cosmetic procedure, being a good candidate for Breast Augmentation depends on your expectations. Virtually anyone can have implants placed, but breast implants are not the solution for all cosmetic breast issues. It is important that you become educated about the many options available.
For the experienced surgeon, Breast Augmentation is used to enhance not only the size, but the shape of the breasts as well. Breast implants can be placed using a variety of techniques so as to create the shape you desire. A variety of implant types and shapes are available. Implants may also be used to correct differences in breast sizes (asymmetry).
Dr. Newman will have lengthy discussions with you regarding your desires. Every patient is treated for their individual needs and requests. Before surgery is performed, you will be given the opportunity to review your case with him on the 3DMD 3-dimensional breast imaging system. This unique tool will add to your understanding and confidence in the procedure. Dr. Newman is the first surgeon in New York with this device, which he helped develop for other Plastic Surgeons.
back to top
What types of implants are available?
Saline (salt water) filled breast implants are available in a variety of styles from several manufacturers. Dr. Newman does not use the same implant type on everybody, as each patient presents with different issues and wishes. Silicone gel filled implants are again available, but only for specific situations. Since Dr. Newman is part of the national protocol studying silicone implants, they are available to his patients when their situation qualifies.
Saline implants are available with or without a textured coating. They are available in round and contoured shapes. Size adjustable implants are also available in certain cases.
After your discussion with Dr. Newman, he will suggest what he feels is the best implant choice to achieve your goals. Together, you will both decide which is right for you.
back to top
What scars should I expect?
The short 3 centimeter (approximately 1 inch) scar Dr. Newman uses for breast augmentation is generally placed either under the breast (in the fold), under the arm, or around the areola (nipple). If a large breast lift (mastopexy) is done at the same time, additional scars may be necessary.
Scars from breast augmentation generally heal very well, and are often nearly invisible. However, everyone heals differently and scars are sometimes unpredictable. If a scar heals with a slightly undesirable appearance, there are several methods for improvement.
back to top
What are the limitations after surgery?
The goal of Breast Augmentation is for you to love your figure. Most Breast Augmentation patients want to be active physically and sexually. The procedure is designed so that there should be no limitations on activity afterwards.
If implants are placed under the muscle, there may be soreness when tightening or exercising the chest muscle for as long as 6 months to a year, although this normally is resolved by 2-3 months. Since gravity and the increased weight of your new breasts will affect their shape over time, wearing a bra is generally recommended.
Once you are fully healed, you should resume a normal active routine with no limitations.
back to top
What are the potential complications?
The most common complications after breast augmentation are cosmetic, including dissatisfaction with size or symmetry. These can best be avoided by good communication before surgery so that the operative plan is clear.
Rippling is a common complaint with saline implants and is most common in thin patients having implants placed over the muscle. This is possible even when the implants are placed under the muscle, especially in the lower outer portion of the breast where the implant extends beyond the muscle's lower edge.
Other issues are not common, but will be discussed during your consultation.
back to top
Information if you already have implants.
Silicone Implants: Many patients with silicone implants have concerns and request to have their implants removed. Usually, the implants are replaced with similar or larger saline filled implants. Silicone implants were often placed over the chest muscles however, when the implants are replaced, the new implants may be placed either over or under the muscle. It is not uncommon for patients to request a Breast Lift at the same time as implants are replaced.
No studies have ever proven conclusively that silicone filled breast implants are the cause of any medical issues. There is, therefore, no medical reason to suggest that silicone implants without related complications should be removed. In fact, clinical trials are now underway to determine whether silicone filled implants should be legalized once again in the US, as they are now available in Europe.
Some patients desire to have their implants replaced with new silicone implants which are already available in the US only through clinical trials. Dr. Newman is a participant in these trials and can place new silicone implants for qualified patients.
Saline Implants: Patients with saline filled breast implants who are unhappy with their results may opt to have their breast augmentation revised. This may include changing the size or type of implant used, changing the position of the implant, or adding a Mastopexy (breast lift).
It is often helpful for Dr. Newman to see photographs taken before your initial surgery if they are available. It is also useful to know what size and type of implant you currently have.
back to top
Where is the surgery performed?
Dr. Newman performs most cosmetic surgery at The OFFICE SURGERY CENTER in Yonkers, New York. The center is a private operating facility offering a state-of-the-art environment with the highest levels of comfort and privacy. The OFFICE SURGERY CENTER is located across the street from St. John's Riverside Hospital and is maintained by the same staff.
The center is located in Westchester County, about 20 minutes from Manhattan. Limousine service is provided for all patients requiring transportation to and from the center.
back to top
Anesthesia for Breast Augmentation
Dr. Newman performs most breast augmentation procedures using general anesthesia. The procedure generally is about 90 minutes long. Patients usually spend about two hours in recovery before going home.
Breast augmentation can be performed using sedation rather than general anesthesia, but this is not Dr. Newman's preference. Dr. Newman will discuss anesthesia options at length with you during your consultation. {Please click the link to the right to learn more about the Anesthesiologists at The Office Surgery Center.}
back to top
Recovery- what to expect
Day of Surgery: The surgical bra or band placed during surgery will normally feel tight. A small amount of blood may be noticed on the gauze bandage over the incision. There may be some nausea from the anesthetic.
Days 1-2: Discomfort will be moderate, especially on the side of the chest under the arm. Pain may be noted when using your arms to get up from bed or a chair. Bruising will be present, mostly under the arm. Discomfort is usually well controlled with the pain medicine prescribed. The first post-operative visit is usually on Day 2 or 3. At this time the dressings will be removed and a sports bra will be placed.
Days 3-7: Swelling will improve and a normal daily routine should be followed. Most patients return to work by Day 2-3.
It is our usual practice to have prospective patients meet with or speak to former patients who have had the same procedure. This can be done in person, by phone, or by e-mail. CONTACT SUSAN ANELLO RN CPSN to set-up a patient contact.
back to top
Frequently asked questions-Answered by Dr. Newman
Will my nipple sensation be normal?
Very rarely has a patient complained of a loss of sensation. However, it is not uncommon for sensation to be reduced during the recovery period. Actually, many patients state that sensation is increased and often asymmetric. I do find that patients have more complaints regarding nipple sensation when the incision is placed around the areola (nipple).
Will I be able to breast-feed after Breast Augmentation?
I am aware of approximately 20 patients who had augmentation and then nursed children. I have never had a patient contact me that was unable to do so, although this is certainly possible.
How is the correct implant size chosen?
Implant size is determined together with the patient. Various implants will be placed in your bra at the time of your consultation to give you a sense of what the implant sizes mean. Photographs will be used and you are encouraged to bring in magazine photographs with shapes and sizes you like. Dr. Newman is the first Plastic Surgeon in the world to use a 3-dimensional imaging system to measure breast size. If this is available at the time of your consultation, it may be used to assist in this decision.
How long before I can be without a bra?
Usually by the seventh to tenth day after surgery.
How long before I can exercise after my surgery?
Sit-ups and bicycle exercises may be started within two days. Aerobic exercising requiring jumping or running should not start for about ten days.
Do breast implants affect my risk of breast cancer?
Breast implants will not change your risk of breast cancer. Since implants change the feel of your breasts they can change the sensitivity of breast examination. It is important to inform the technician that you have implants before mammography. If you are over 35 years of age, a baseline mammogram should be performed before your surgery.
How long before I can have sexual contact involving my breasts?
Your breasts will probably be sensitive to direct stimulation for two to three weeks, so you should avoid much physical contact. After that, breast contact is fine once your breasts are no longer sore.
back to top
|
