Am I a Candidate for Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that is performed to increase breast fullness, increase breast projection, and improve breast symmetry. Dr. Ali Totonchi takes pride in helping his patients exude self-confidence and look their best. The procedure involves the insertion of a silicone or saline implant inside the patient’s breast, resulting in a fuller appearance and a younger breast profile.
Patients who have lost breast volume due to drastic weight changes, pregnancy, and breastfeeding can restore the fullness of their breasts and even achieve larger breast size with breast augmentation. Patients with naturally small breasts can also benefit to achieve their ideal breast size. Performing the Rice Test can help you determine what size you may want your breasts to be.
Patients who are looking to lift and enhance breast size should consider breast augmentation in combination with a mastopexy (breast lift), to ensure optimal results. An exam will be done to determine if a breast lift is needed in conjunction with your augmentation. Implants alone can correct mild ptosis, or dropping, but the nipple must be in a good position. A breast lift is generally needed if the drooping is severe and the nipple is pointing downward or in a poor position. Nipple sensation can be altered due to breast augmentation and breast lift surgeries. All breast surgeries disrupt the nerves and blood vessels that surround the nipples. Generally speaking, the effects are temporary, and only last a few months while the nerves and blood vessels heal and restore. If you have plans to breastfeed in the future, please inform Dr. Totonchi so he chooses the best approach to maximize the potential to be able to breastfeed after surgery.
Dr. Ali Totonchi counsels his patients in making the important decision regarding which type of breast implant to select for the breast augmentation procedure. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Totonchi discusses and reviews the risks and benefits of available options so that the patient may make a well-informed and educated decision prior to selecting their breast augmentation procedure.
Patients are given a choice between saline breast implants and silicone-filled breast implants for their breast augmentation. Saline breast implants can be filled with sterile saltwater to a range during the breast augmentation procedure to allow your surgeon to make small changes as he sees fit for symmetry. Silicone-filled breast implants are filled with an elastic silicone gel that is soft and mimics the same texture of a patient’s breast. These are pre-filled, and patients who opt for this type of implant will have a slightly longer incision under the breast for the implant insertion.
Breast implants, both saline, and silicone generally need to be replaced or revised in 10-20 years. Some need revisions sooner, and others may never need a revision.
Breast augmentation procedures are done on an outpatient basis, under general anesthesia. An incision is usually made under the breast to create a pocket. The patient’s preferred implants are then inserted into the pocket and positioned by Dr. Ali Totonchi to achieve ideal symmetry between the two breasts.
The placement of the implant over or under the muscle will be decided on your consultation day. The pectoralis major is the large chest muscle which implants are often placed under to soften the look of the upper edge of the implant. The downside to the submuscular, or “under the muscle” approach is that the implant moves or animates with the contraction of the muscle.
The subglandular, or “over the muscle” approach avoids movement or animation of the implant with muscle contraction and enhances the shape of the natural breast when choosing a silicone implant. Generally, there is less pain involved post-operatively with the subglandular or “over the muscle” approach. The results of the breast augmentation can be appreciated almost immediately after the procedure. The results of the breast augmentation can be appreciated almost immediately after the procedure.
You will be given a prescription for pain medication. Pain is variable from patient to patient. The maximum pain will be in the first 48-72 hours. Most people tolerate breast augmentation surgery well and feel good 4-5 days post-op, and return to work after the first week. Wearing a good support bra/sports bra post-op is important. You may return to your regular exercise routine 6-8 weeks after surgery. Instructions about post-operative care are provided to each patient and can also be printed from Dr. Totonchi’s website.
Call (440) 461-7999 for information or click here to schedule an appointment.
Are you interested in learning more? We invite you to schedule an appointment with us at Zeeba Clinic and Medspa. When you have a consultation, we’ll talk about your aesthetic goals and help you decide which type of treatment is right for you. Contact us today to get started!
Zeeba Clinic & Medspa Holiday Gift Cards are here—just in time for the season! Share the gift of beauty and receive a FREE surprise gift with each card
purchased.
Breast augmentation offers a transformative solution for individuals seeking to enhance their breast size, improve contour, and restore lost volume. This procedure can significantly boost self-confidence and create a more balanced and proportionate physique. Many women opt for breast augmentation to address concerns related to natural breast size, post-pregnancy changes, or significant weight loss, ultimately achieving a more aesthetically pleasing and harmonious body image.
The benefits extend beyond physical appearance. By achieving desired breast fullness and shape, patients often experience a renewed sense of femininity and empowerment. The ability to wear a wider range of clothing with greater comfort and confidence is a commonly reported advantage. Furthermore, for those experiencing asymmetry, breast augmentation can create a more uniform and balanced look, resolving a long-standing source of self-consciousness.
While breast augmentation is a safe and effective procedure, like any surgery, it carries potential risks and requires careful consideration. These can include infection, bleeding, changes in nipple or breast sensation, and the possibility of capsular contracture, where scar tissue tightens around the implant. It's crucial for patients to have a thorough understanding of these risks and to discuss them openly with their surgeon.
Beyond surgical complications, patients should also consider the long-term implications of breast implants. Implants are not lifetime devices and may require revision or replacement over time, typically within 10-20 years. Factors such as implant type, placement, and individual healing can influence outcomes. Realistic expectations regarding the final appearance and the need for potential future interventions are essential for patient satisfaction.
Selecting the appropriate breast implant is a critical step in achieving optimal and personalized results. The two primary types available are saline and silicone implants, each offering distinct characteristics. Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater and are inserted empty, then inflated to the desired size, potentially allowing for a smaller incision. Silicone implants are pre-filled with a silicone gel, offering a more natural feel and appearance, and are generally recommended for patients seeking a softer, more lifelike breast.
Beyond the filling material, implant shape (round or teardrop) and texture (smooth or textured) also play a significant role. Round implants tend to provide more upper pole fullness and are a popular choice for many. Textured implants are designed to reduce the risk of capsular contracture by adhering to surrounding tissue. Dr. Guyuron will guide you through these options, considering your unique anatomy, aesthetic goals, and lifestyle to recommend the best implant choice for your breast augmentation journey.
Effective preparation is key to a smooth and successful breast augmentation experience. This typically begins with a comprehensive consultation where your medical history is reviewed, your aesthetic goals are discussed, and a physical examination is performed. Dr. Guyuron will explain the procedure in detail, including the risks, benefits, and expected outcomes, ensuring you have all the information needed to make an informed decision.
In the weeks leading up to surgery, you will receive specific instructions regarding medications to avoid, such as aspirin and certain herbal supplements, which can increase bleeding risk. You may also be advised to stop smoking, as it can impair healing. Arranging for transportation home after the surgery and having someone available to assist you during your initial recovery period are also vital aspects of preparation.