Patrick K. Sullivan, MD, FACS
Double Board Certified Providence, Rhode Island Plastic Surgeon
One of “America’s Top Doctors” & “The Best Doctors in America”
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- bb-ba-00001-1209: Transaxillary breast augmentation with silicone implants (female)
- bb-ba-00002-1209: Breast Augmentation (female)
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Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation, technically known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure to enhance the size and shape of a woman's breast for a number of reasons:
- To enhance the body contour of a woman who, for personal reasons, feels her breast size is too small.
- To correct a reduction in breast volume after pregnancy.
- To balance a difference in breast size.
- As a reconstructive technique following breast surgery.
Breast enlargement is done on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. A small incision is made under the breast and a saline implant is inserted under the breast tissue or under the breast tissue and the underlying muscle.
The patient goes home in an elastic bra. The bra helps hold the breasts in the correct position. Initial discomfort is controlled with oral medication. Sutures are usually removed in 7-12 days. Light activities can be resumed as tolerated and aerobic activities can be started in about 3 weeks. Moving or sliding the implants within the breast pockets during the postoperative period may reduce the frequency of wrinkling.
An additional procedure that would enhance the result of a breast augmentation is a Mastopexy (breast lift) if the breasts are saggy in addition to being small.
Breast enlargement is considered cosmetic and therefore is not covered by insurance. The patient is responsible for payment.
The specific risks and the suitability of this procedure for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are unusual.
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