1622 Eighth Ave.
Suite 130
Fort Worth, Texas 76104
Phone: 877-511-5566
Fax: 817-921-5567
The problem of small breasts (hypomastia) can be very difficult for many women, causing problems with self-esteem and confidence. In addition to naturally-occurring small breasts, women who have had children and breastfed will notice a change in the size and volume of the breast. With breast-feeding and pregnancy, the skin becomes stretched and the breast loses its firmness and size. Generally, along with loss of volume of the breast, the breast will also become ptotic or sag. Breast augmentation can replace breast volume that is either congenital or acquired through time.
Due to the recent FDA approval of the use of silicone implants, patients have more choices on the type of implant that is used. They can choose between the newer cohesive gel silicone implant and the saline implant. In general, silicone implants feel more natural than saline implants. Depending upon the amount of native breast tissue present, the implants can be placed either under the chest muscle or the breast tissue itself. The skin incision can be placed under the breast (inframmary), around the nipple (periareolar), or in the armpit (transaxillary). Each incision can be well hidden and the choice is primarily dictated by patient preference. Breast size is a personal choice and should be chosen with the patient’s architecture and body type in mind. A well-performed breast augmentation procedure will restore or increase the breast volume to a size that is in proportion to the patient's body. For patients with significant ptosis of the breast, it may be necessary to perform a breast lift (mastopexy) at the time of augmentation to restore the shape of the breast. I will thoroughly discuss your expectations with you and ensure that your goals are realistic and obtainable.
Average Length:
1 hour
Anesthesia:
General; local pain pumps are an option in some cases
In/Outpatient:
Outpatient
Side Effects:
Temporary swelling, mild bruising, and some pain
Risks:
Pain, bleeding, infection, asymmetry, implant failure, scarring around the implant (capsular contracture)
Recovery:
Back to work: 3 days to 1 week
More strenuous activity: 2 - 3 weeks
Final Appearance:
6 - 8 weeks for implants to completely descend into the final position
Duration of Results:
Permanent: the average lifespan of a breast implant is 10 years and implants may need to be replaced in a relatively minor procedure
