Breast Enlargement
(Augmentation Mammaplasty)
Procedure
Enhance the size of breasts using inflatable implants filled with saline. http://idealimplant.com
Length
1 to 2 hours.
Anesthesia
Local with sedation, or general.
In/Outpatient
Usually outpatient.
Side Effects
Temporary soreness, swelling, change in nipple sensation, bruising. Breast sensitive to stimulation for a few weeks.
Risks
Lack of implant permanence-surgical removal or replacement of the implants may be required to treat problems, including: deflation; the formation of scar tissue around the implant (capsular contracture), which may cause the breast to feel tight or hard; bleeding or infection. Increase or decrease in sensitivity of nipples or breast skin, occasionally permanent. Mammagraphy requires a special technique. (Note: Some women have reported symptoms similar to those of immune disorders. Ask your doctor about these and other FDA concerns.)
Recovery
Back to work: a few days. Physical contact with breasts: 3 to 4 weeks. Fading of scars: several months to a year or more.
Duration of Results
Variable. Implants may require removal or replacement.
Breast Lift
(Mastopexy)
Procedure
Raise and reshape sagging breasts by removing excess skin and repositioning remaining tissue and nipples.
Length
1 to 3 hours.
Anesthesia
Local with sedation, or general.
In/Outpatient
Usually outpatient. Sometimes inpatient.
Side Effects
Temporary bruising, swelling, discomfort, numbness, dry breast skin. Permanent scars.
Risks
Thick, wide scars; skin loss; infection. Unevenly positioned nipples. Permanent loss of feeling in nipples or breast.
Recovery
Back to work: 1 week or more. Strenuous activities: 1 month. Fading of scars: several months to a year.
Duration of Results
Variable; gravity, pregnancy, aging, and weight changes may cause new sagging. Results may last longer or be enhanced when breast implants are inserted as part of the procedure.
Male Breast Reduction
(Gynecomastia)
Procedure
Reduce enlarged, female-like breast in men using liposuction and/or cutting out excess glandular tissue. (Sometimes covered by medical insurance.)
Length
1 hour or more.
Anesthesia
General or local.
In/Outpatient
Usually outpatient.
Side Effects
Temporary bruising, swelling, numbness, soreness, burning sensation.
Risks
Infection. Fluid accumulation. Injury to the skin. Rippling or bagginess of skin. Asymmetry. Pigmentation changes (may become permanent if exposed to sun). Excessive scarring if tissue was cut away. Need for second procedure to remove additional tissue.
Recovery
Back to work: 3 to 7 days. More strenuous activity: 2 to 3 weeks. Swelling and bruising: 3 to 6 months.
Duration of Results
Permanent
