Augmentation/Reduction/Lift
MAMMOPLASTY (Breast augmentation)
This type of surgery is used to increase the size of breasts, change the shape, make them more even or give them a lift. This is achieved by making small incisions in order to insert implants under the breast tissue, usually two, resulting in larger, higher, firmer breasts that look harmoniously in proportion with the rest of the body.
Implants
There are currently two broad types of breast implants available, made of different substances, however the best results are usually achieved with silicone implants because they look and feel more like natural breasts, firm and sensual.
During your initial consultation, you will be given all the information to reach a decision on the most suitable type of implant for your case, the best size, shape, etc. Your pre-operative tests will also be discussed, along with the hospital/clinic of choice at which the procedure will be carried out.
Candidates
Individuals of any age who wish to enhance the appearance, size and contour of their breasts. Also, women who opt for breast reconstruction after mastectomy.
Techniques
There is really very little variance in the techniques. Depending on age, desired size and shape of the breasts and future childbearing intentions, the main focus is on the type and size of implant to use, the position of the incisions and whether the placement of the implants be subglandular or submuscular.
Breast implants have been declared as safe, they do not increase the risk of cancer or autoimmune diseases, neither do they interfere in pregnancy and a woman’s ability to breast feed. If experienced, any loss of sensitivity will not last long.
The surgery will be carried out at a hospital or clinic under local anaesthesia with total intravenous sedation or under general anaesthesia, whichever the patient prefers, and takes approximately 60 minutes.
BREAST LIFT
This procedure involves lifting the breasts to their original position, preserving the same size and shape or, alternatively, an augmentation or reduction can also be combined in the procedure. The size of the areola (the pigmented skin around the nipple) can also be reduced if desired.
Candidates
Women of any age whose breasts have sagged or have become flaccid due to child bearing, weight fluctuations, age and gravity or an excess of skin elasticity.
Technique
There is little variation in the techniques. Depending on the skin type, extent of sagging, size of the areola and whether the lift will be combined with reduction of the breasts or augmentation to make breasts fuller and firmer.
The incisions are made in the natural folds of the breast and around the areola, in order to achieve a perfect firmer, more youthful breast contour.
Where will the scars be? Depending on the technique used, around the areola, with a vertical incision under the breast or in the shape of an anchor, always endeavouring to hide them in the natural folds of the breasts as much as possible.
BREAST REDUCTION
Women with overly large or hanging breasts can experience problems related to the weight and exaggerated size of the breasts such as pain in the shoulders, back and neck; ill-fitting bras can then cause discomfort and lead to postural problems like rounded or hunched shoulders and skin irritation, stretch marks, breathing problems are often experienced.
Overly large breasts can also make females feel extremely self-conscious and affect their confidence, especially young girls who experience an uneasiness in using certain types of clothing, socialising or taking part in exercise and sports, leading to low self-esteem or even depression.
In breast reduction surgery, precise incisions are made to remove some of the breast tissue, excess fat and skin, the breasts are then reshaped, and nipples lifted, resulting in smaller, firmer, lighter, more attractive breasts that are in proportion with the rest of the body and a consequent soar in self-confidence.
Candidates
More than for aesthetic reasons, this type of surgery is carried out to alleviate physical and emotional issues. Overly large breasts should be operated on when they start causing problems, even in women younger than eighteen. The best candidates are those who are old enough to understand what the procedure entails and whose expectations are realistic. The technique depends on the size of the breasts, the level of sagging, the size of the areola/nipple, age of the patient and plans for future breast feeding. This procedure is not advisable for women who are breast feeding.
When breasts are extremely large, breast feeding could be affected and the sensitivity of the areola/nipple temporarily impaired.