Breast augmentation increases the size of small or asymmetrical breasts with the placement of silicone or saline breast implants. Implants come in many different sizes and shapes, and can be inserted through a variety of incisions, to produce the desired outcomes. They are often used to compensate for naturally small breasts or reduced breast fullness after pregnancy or weight loss, or to correct a congenital breast deformity or asymmetry.
Breast augmentation is the most frequently performed cosmetic surgical procedure in the United States. Every year, hundreds of thousands of women undergo breast augmentation to enjoy a fuller cup size, better contour and breast size and shape that is in balance with their individual body. Dr. Mark H. Schwartz is pleased to be one of New York City’s most in-demand breast surgeons.
Breast Augmentation Consultation
Breast augmentation is not a one size fits all procedure. Dr. Schwartz will evaluate you on an individual basis during the consultation process. He will inquire about your needs, goals, and motivation for surgery to select the optimum treatment plan for you. He will take a detailed medical history and perform a comprehensive physical examination to look at your body type and frame to achieve a natural and aesthetically pleasing result that meets your specifications.
Implant Choices
Silicone Gel Breast Implants
Silicone implants are filled with a cohesive gel material. The majority of Dr. Schwartz’s patients opt for silicone implants because they look and feel most like natural breast tissue. The silicone is less likely to ripple or wrinkle within the implant pocket. They are pre-filled by the manufacturer so they require a slightly longer incision. If the implant were to rupture or leak, the filling material would stay largely intact within or close to the implant pocket, which makes it more subtle to detect.
Having a breast augmentation or breast lift will not prevent changes in the breast that can occur after future pregnancies, weight gain or loss, or the force of gravity over time. Implants may need to be removed or replaced if a rupture, change in shape or position occurs. Most women can expect to have a second surgery at some point after having breast implants placed.
Saline Breast Implants
Saline implants have a silicone outer shell filled with a sterile saltwater solution. They are generally filled after insertion, so Dr. Schwartz can use a smaller incision to place the empty shell, and he can adjust their size during the procedure, if needed. If the implant were to rupture or leak, the body would safely absorb the saltwater solution.
Shape
Implants come in either a round or teardrop shape. Round implants are circular and provide more fullness in the upper portion of the breasts. Teardrop implants are also known as anatomical or contoured implants, and have a downward slope similar to natural breasts.
Texture
Textured implants adhere to the breast tissue to prevent them from moving around in the pocket. This is a good option for teardrop shaped implants, which might look distorted should the implant rotate in the pocket. Smooth implants do not adhere to the tissue and can move around more easily within the pocket. These implants tend to be round.
Size
Implants can be filled to various capacities, depending on the desired cosmetic outcome. Most women choose conservatively sized implants that provide natural-looking enhancement, while others desire more noticeable results. Implants are measured in cubic centimeters (cc’s), instead of cup sizes. Dr. Schwartz offers an implant sizer kit so you can “try on” different sized implants to make the right decision. Most women tend to go up by 1 or 2 cup sizes for a more natural outcome.
Placement Options
Implants can be placed either in front of or behind the pectoralis (chest) muscle. Placing the implant underneath the muscle (sub-muscular) lowers the risk of implant visibility and capsular contracture. It also makes future mammograms easier to interpret since the muscle provides a “barrier” between the breast tissue and implant. On the other hand, the recovery may be more uncomfortable. Placing the implant in front of the muscle (sub-glandular) makes for an easier recovery, but may not provide adequate tissue coverage of the implant edges especially in patients with thin skin. During your consultation, Dr. Schwartz will review both options and recommend the approach that he feels will work best for you.
Surgical Details
Breast implants are placed through incisions made in an inconspicuous location to minimize post-operative scars. There are three primary incision patterns used for breast implant placement:
- Inframammary – underneath the natural breast fold
- Periareolar – around the areola
- Transaxillary – within the armpit
Dr. Schwartz makes the incision either in the crease of the breast (inframammary fold), around the areola or in the armpit. Through the incision, Dr. Schwartz carefully makes a pocket to hold the implant either in front of or behind the pectoralis (chest) muscle. He places the implant inside the pocket and positions it carefully. When he is finished, he closes the incisions with dissolvable sutures and places a sterile dressing over the area. Dr. Schwartz also places a special garment around the breasts to apply slight compression on the tissues as they heal.
Recovering from Breast Augmentation
Dr. Schwartz’ patients find that the recovery after breast augmentation surgery is relatively straightforward. Range of motion is limited at first, as your breasts will be sore, swollen and sensitive. However, these side effects are only temporary and will usually subside within a few days. Most patients can return to work within a week.
During the initial recovery, you will be advised to avoid any vigorous or strenuous activity, especially heavy lifting and aerobics, running or strenuous exercise. Pain medication can be taken as prescribed, if necessary.
Dr. Schwartz’s staff will schedule follow-up visits for him to check on your healing progress, answer questions and advise when it is safe to return to work, school and exercise.
Breast implants are designed to be long-lasting devices. As long as you are pleased with your breast shape and size, and the implants continue to feel soft, you may not need to have your implants removed or replaced. Dr. Schwartz likes to follow each patient as needed to monitor their post-surgical experience.
Why Choose Dr. Schwartz?
Dr. Schwartz is one of New York City’s most in-demand breast augmentation surgeons. He has helped thousands of women enjoy fuller, more attractive breasts and greater confidence in their appearance.
Dr. Schwartz takes a very customized approach to breast augmentation. Every woman has a different body type and idea of what looks good. He understands that what may work for one woman may not necessarily work for her best friend or sister. Dr. Schwartz takes great pride in delivering optimal results from breast augmentation to meet each patient’s personal goals.
Learn More About Breast Augmentation in Manhattan
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Mark Schwartz or to learn more about breast augmentation, contact our office today.
