Breast augmentation is one of the most frequently performed cosmetic surgery procedures in the U.S. and one of our most popular services. Breast augmentation can give women with small or unevenly sized breasts a fuller, firmer, better-proportioned look through the placement of saline or silicone implants in the breast.
Our patients elect to undergo breast augmentation for many different medical and aesthetic reasons, including balancing breast size, compensating for reduced breast mass after pregnancy or surgery, and correcting a congenital breast defect. Under Dr. Worthams’ expert care, patients enjoy great-looking, natural-feeling breasts that are one or more cup sizes larger after the operation.
Our procedures can be performed in a hospital, but are typically performed in our Washington State Licensed surgery center in Lynnwood, WA.
Fully Customized Breast Enhancement
We know that every woman is unique in both her desires and her body shape. With that in mind, we take the time during the pre-operative consultations to learn what each patient hopes to gain from breast augmentation surgery and to decide which implant type and implant placement is best. In this way, every one of our patients enjoys completely customized treatment designed with her specific goals in mind. We may sometimes recommend combining breast augmentation with other procedures such as a breast lift for more satisfying results.
Saline and Silicone Gel Breast Implants
Breast implants are silicone shells filled with either saline (salt water) or silicone gel. Both implant types are very safe, and each offers its own advantages. Natrelle implants are guaranteed by the company and an additional Warranty Program is provided directly from Allergan. We will help you decide which kind is right for you. During surgery, we will place the implants either underneath breast tissue or the chest wall muscle.
Incision Techniques
The breast augmentation procedure lasts one to two hours and is typically performed with a twilight anesthesia and local anesthesia. Incisions are made in inconspicuous places on the breast to minimize scar visibility. These may be located:
- In the armpit (transaxillary)
- In the crease on the underside of the breast (inframammary)
- Around the areola, the dark skin around the nipple (periareolar)
A pocket is then carefully developed into which the implant is inserted.
Placement Options
Implant placement beneath the muscle of the chest offers a few advantages over placement beneath the breast tissue only. These include reduced risk of capsular contracture (post-operative tightening around the implant) and less interference with mammogram examinations. Possible disadvantages include elevated pain in the first few days following surgery. We will discuss which option may be best for you. After the implants have been inserted and positioned beneath the nipples, the incisions are stitched closed. Bandages are applied along with a compressive bra.
Recovery
Most patients feel tired and sore after breast augmentation surgery, but this usually passes in a day or two. Many patients return to work within the week. Absorbable stitches are placed deep to the incision and typically completely dissolve within a few months. Any post-operative pain, swelling and sensitivity will diminish over the first few weeks and is variable from patient to patient. Scars from breast augmentation incisions will begin to fade in a few months and will continue to fade over the next several months.
There are certain risks and complications that can occur with any cosmetic procedure. During your consultation, Dr. Wortham will make sure you are a good surgical candidate. He will also discuss the risks and complications related to your procedure and answer any questions you may have.
Be sure to check out the before and after breast enhancement photos and patient testimonials!