ABOUT BREAST RECONSTRUCTION

Also known as Breast Implant Surgery, Breast Enhancement or Breast Augmentation.

This is a surgical procedure done to enhance or augment the breast size, usually using an implant. It is commonly done for cosmetic purpose. Also done as part of breast reconstruction in patients who have undergone mastectomy.

DURATION

It is usually performed as an outpatient procedure. The operation takes approximately one to two hours.

RECOVERY

Sutures are removed after 7-10 days. Regular routine can be resumed in about three week’s time. Lifting heavy weights is to be avoided for at least four weeks.

RISKS

These include bleeding, infection, swelling, increased sensitivity in the area, etc. There could be complications like capsule contracture; sagging of the implants in the breast, rupture or deflation. Detection of cancer through mammogram may be more difficult. It may interfere with breast feeding.

Procedure related risks can be minimized if done by qualified and experienced Cosmetic surgeon.

PROCEDURE

Under anaesthesia, the implant is placed either under the breast tissue or the breast muscle. Different types of implants are used, including saline or silicone gel.

There can be different approaches to the site - via crease under the breast (inframammary fold); via the areola (periareolar incision); or via the armpit ( transaxillary approach). This is decided by the surgeon depending on type and size of the implant, shape of the body, patient’s preference, etc.

You may also like to learn about:

Hyperthyroidism
Adrenal gland disorders
Hypogonadism
Breast cancer
Pituitary tumor
Depression