Breast Augmentation

As one of the most requested cosmetic procedures in the United States, breast augmentation refers to the use of implants and/or fat grafting to augment the breasts—increasing both size and symmetry, if needed.¹

Many women pursue breast surgery for a variety of reasons, including unhappiness with their breast size, shape, symmetry and/or their breast-to-body proportion. Each and every woman is unique, and has individual aesthetic goals for her body. Because of this, Dr. Rukmini Rednam takes the time to meet with each patient, talk about their goals, and customize an approach that will provide them with the results they are looking for. Dr. Rednam understands that the most natural augmentation provides a proportional enhancement that lengthens and slims the body frame and provides a balanced and beautiful look.

There are numerous implant options available for qualified patients, which is why it is important for patients to consult with Dr. Rednam about which option is best suited for them. Implants vary in both size and material, and provide differing results. Additionally, the type of implant chosen determines scar placement. During an initial consultation with Dr. Rednam, patients are able to discuss the following options for augmentation.

Implant Material

Round saline: These implants are inflated once placed into the chest. They are made of a thin outer silicone shell and filled with saline. Saline implants are more prone to rippling and may feel less natural in some patients. 

Round silicone: Silicone implants come pre-filled and are composed of a smooth silicone shell and silicone gel. They tend to have a more natural appearance and feel than saline implants.

Shaped silicone: Like round silicone implants, these come pre-filled and are made of silicone. However, these implants are textured, shaped like a teardrop, and are filled with denser silicone that is form-stable. These implants can help patients achieve a more natural looking breast augmentation though are used only in select patients who understand the unique risks of textured implants.

Implant Placement

Dual Plane: Dr. Rednam places the implant partially below the pectoralis muscle and partially under the breast tissue. For women with naturally small breasts, this technique can provide a more aesthetic result. It may reduce the risk of capsular contracture and makes any rippling appear less noticeable.

Subglandular: Dr. Rednam puts the implants directly below the breast gland. This method is effective for those who have already had children and can also provide patients with less postoperative discomfort. But it should be noted that with this technique, any rippling is more noticeable in very thin patients who choose to have larger implants.

Incision Placement

Inframammary: This is the most widely used incision and Dr. Rednam’s preferred technique.    The scar hides under the breast in the breast crease (where the breast meets the chest wall and creates a natural shadow). This allows her to best see the implant placement and avoids any damage to the breast tissue

Periareolar: Dr. Rednam makes an incision around the outside of the areola, to access the underlying tissue in order to create a pocket for the implant. This is a great option for some patients who qualify but carries a higher risk of breast lower pole flattening over time.

Preparing for Breast Augmentation

In preparation for your breast augmentation procedure, Dr. Rednam will ask you to stop smoking at least six weeks in advance of surgery. You should also avoid taking medications that may increase bleeding during surgery, such as aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications. Finally, you’ll need to enlist the support of a friend or family who can drive you home and help you get settled after the procedure.²

Breast Augmentation Surgery: What to Expect

Breast augmentation surgery is performed under IV sedation or general anesthesia and is an outpatient procedure. To begin the procedure, Dr. Rednam makes an incision, the placement of which will be discussed with the patient prior to surgery. She then creates a pocket by separating the breast tissue from connective tissues and muscles and gently inserts the implant into each breast, making sure they appear symmetrical and natural. Finally, incisions are meticulously closed and the patient is gently awakened from anesthesia.³

Results from this procedure are visible both immediately and progressively. Patients see fuller volume right away, but optimal results (due to implant settling, reduced swelling and scarring) can typically be seen a few weeks to months following the surgery.

During recovery, patients should wear a support bra and refrain from strenuous physical activity until otherwise instructed by Dr. Rednam. During your procedure consultation, she will give you instructions on how to best care for your new body after the surgery is complete.

Am I a candidate for breast augmentation?

The ideal candidate for breast augmentation surgery:

• Is in good general health
• Is a non-smoker
• Is not pregnant or breastfeeding
• Has realistic expectations about breast augmentation results⁴

What are the risks associated with breast augmentation?

Any surgical procedure is associated with some risks, but working with an experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Rednam dramatically reduces the likelihood of complications. Potential risks and complications of breast augmentation include:

• Anesthesia risks
• Infection
• Bleeding
• Changes to or loss of nipple and breast sensation
• Poor incisional healing
• Asymmetry or poor positioning of the implant

Additional risks associated specifically with breast implants include:

• Capsular contracture (hardening of scar tissue)
• Breast implant leakage or rupture⁵
• BII/ALCL

Will breast augmentation make my breasts less saggy?

It should be noted that for patients with considerable breast drooping or sagging, an augmentation alone is not enough to see optimal results. However, in combination with a mastopexy, also known as a breast lift, these patients can see noticeable improvement in shape, size, symmetry and lift.

If you are unhappy with the size, shape, or appearance of your breasts, experienced plastic surgeon Dr. Rukmini Rednam can help. During your breast augmentation consultation at her Houston-area practice, you will have the opportunity to candidly discuss both your goals and your concerns. Dr. Rednam will make sure you are fully educated about the many breast augmentation options she offers, then you will arrive at the ideal treatment plan together. To learn more and schedule your breast augmentation consultation, please contact us today.

References
¹ American Society of Plastic Surgeons. 2018 National Plastic Surgery Statistics. Available at: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/News/Statistics/2018/plastic-surgery-statistics-report-2018.pdf. Accessed September 11, 2020.
² American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Breast Augmentation Preparation. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-augmentation/preparation. Accessed September 11, 2020.
³ American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Breast Augmentation Procedure. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-augmentation/procedure. Accessed September 11, 2020.
⁴ American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Breast Augmentation Candidates. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/breast-augmentation/candidates. Accessed September 11, 2020.
⁵ Mayo Clinic. Breast Augmentation. Available: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/breast-augmentation/about/pac-20393178. Accessed September 11, 2020.