Introduction
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that has gained significant popularity over the years. It is aimed at increasing the size and fullness of the breasts, and it can have a profound impact on a woman's self - confidence and body image. Recently, there has been quite a buzz about Aurora Breast Augmentation in Wuhan Zhonghan temporarily ranking fourth in New York City. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of breast augmentation, including its reasons, procedures, risks, and the significance of this ranking.
Understanding Breast Augmentation
What is Breast Augmentation?
According to Mayo Clinic, breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves placing breast implants under breast tissue or chest muscles. The primary purpose is to increase breast size. Some people opt for this surgery to feel better about themselves, while others use it as part of breast reconstruction after various conditions, such as mastectomy for breast cancer.
Reasons for Breast Augmentation
- Enhanced self - confidence: Many women feel that having larger or more shapely breasts can boost their self - esteem. As reported by William Lao, MD, a top plastic surgeon in New York City, young ladies with small breasts are often self - conscious about their appearance. Breast augmentation can provide them with the confidence to wear certain types of clothing or feel more comfortable in social situations.
- Correction of asymmetry: In some cases, one breast may be larger than the other. Breast augmentation can help balance the size of the breasts, creating a more symmetrical appearance.
- Post - pregnancy or weight loss changes: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and significant weight loss can cause changes in breast shape and size. Breast augmentation can restore the lost volume and improve the overall appearance of the breasts.
Types of Breast Implants
Saline Implants
Saline implants consist of a silicone shell that is filled with a saline (saltwater) solution once the implant is placed into the breast tissue. They are often less expensive than silicone implants. However, they may have a less organic feel, and there is a greater potential for a noticeable rippling effect through the skin, especially in thinner patients, as noted by William Lao, MD. Saline implants are FDA - approved for use in patients 18 years and older.
Silicone Implants
Silicone implants are pre - filled with a soft silicone gel and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They provide a more natural look and feel compared to saline implants, as the gel inside creates a more natural movement. However, they are more expensive and require a larger incision for placement. Silicone implants are approved for patients 22 years and older, according to FDA regulations.
Form - Stable Silicone Implants (Gummy Bear Implants)
These implants are similar to standard silicone implants but have a firmer consistency. They are designed to maintain their shape better, which can result in a more natural - looking breast. Gummy bear implants are also less likely to rupture or leak compared to other types of implants.
Implant Type | Composition | Advantages | Disadvantages | FDA - Approved Age |
---|---|---|---|---|
Saline | Silicone shell filled with saline solution | Less expensive, can be adjusted in size during surgery | Less natural feel, higher risk of rippling | 18+ |
Silicone | Pre - filled with silicone gel | More natural look and feel | More expensive, larger incision required | 22+ |
Form - Stable Silicone (Gummy Bear) | Firmer silicone gel | Maintains shape, lower risk of rupture | More expensive | 22+ |
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Pre - surgery Preparation
Before the surgery, patients need to have a detailed consultation with a plastic surgeon. During this consultation, the patient and the surgeon will discuss the desired size, shape, and look of the breasts. The surgeon will also talk about the types of implants and surgical choices available. Patients are required to read all the information provided by the implant manufacturer and keep copies for their records. Additionally, healthcare professionals must review the FDA's patient decision checklist with the patient to ensure they are aware of the benefits and risks of the procedure. According to Mayo Clinic, patients may need a baseline mammogram before surgery, and certain medications that can increase bleeding, such as aspirin, may need to be adjusted. Smokers are usually asked to stop smoking for 4 to 6 weeks before and after the surgery. It is also important to arrange for someone to drive the patient home after the surgery and stay with them for at least the first night.
Anesthesia
Breast augmentation can be performed using either local anesthesia or general anesthesia. Local anesthesia numbs only the breast area, while general anesthesia puts the patient in a sleep - like state. Most commonly, general anesthesia is used for this procedure. The choice of anesthesia depends on various factors, including the patient's preference and the surgeon's recommendation.
Incision Sites
- Inframammary Incision: This incision is made in the crease under the breast. It is the most commonly used incision site. It allows the surgeon good control of the breast pocket and is associated with less breastfeeding difficulties compared to the periareolar incision. However, the scar may be more visible compared to the transaxillary incision.
- Periareolar Incision: The incision is made along the border of the more darkly pigmented tissue of the areola. It is well - concealed, but it involves cutting through breast tissue, which is associated with a higher risk of breastfeeding difficulties or changes in breast or nipple sensation, although these complications are rare.
- Transaxillary Incision: This incision is hidden in a fold of the armpit. It is a more difficult approach as it involves either a probe fitted with a miniature camera or blind dissection, and it allows the surgeon less control of the implant during insertion.
Implant Placement
- Submuscular Placement: The breast pocket is created underneath the pectoralis major muscle. It is the most common placement in the United States. This placement has some advantages, such as a lower risk of capsular contracture and less interference with mammogram examinations. However, it may require drainage tubes and can cause more pain in the first few days following surgery.
- Subglandular Placement: The breast pocket is made underneath the breast gland but on top of the pectoralis major muscle. This placement was more popular in the 1980s but has fallen out of favor somewhat. It may be recommended for patients with a very muscular chest wall or little natural breast tissue.
- Dual - Plane Placement: Similar to submuscular placement, the breast pocket is under the pectoralis major muscle, and then the interface between the breast gland and the muscle is freed up so that the implant can slide. This placement can give a small lift to the breasts, but it cannot be used in place of a breast lift (mastopexy).
The Surgery Process
During the surgery, the surgeon makes an incision according to the pre - determined site and creates a pocket inside the breast to hold the breast implant. Temporary sizers are often placed in the pocket and inflated to various sizes to determine the best fit. Only after carefully considering the patient's goals and the impact of different possible augmentations does the surgeon open a set of implants for placement. The implant is then placed in the pocket and centered behind the nipple. Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water once they are in place, while silicone implants are pre - filled. After the implant is in place, the surgeon closes the incision with multiple layers of stitches to minimize the scar.
Recovery After Breast Augmentation
Immediate Post - surgery
After the surgery, patients are likely to experience soreness, swelling, and bruising for a few weeks. They may need to wear a compression bandage or sports bra for support. Pain medication is usually prescribed to manage any discomfort. Most patients go home the same day of the surgery, unless a hospital stay is required.
Return to Normal Activities
If the patient's job does not involve a lot of physical movement, they may be able to return to work within a few weeks. However, for at least two weeks, they should avoid activities that cause strain or raise the pulse or blood pressure. Heavy lifting and strenuous activities should be avoided for four to six weeks. It may take six to eight weeks for the swelling to fully subside and for the final results to become apparent.
Scar Healing
Scars from breast augmentation incisions will fade over time but will not disappear completely. Surgeons often provide a comprehensive postoperative scar care regimen to optimize the appearance of the scars. Some patients may also choose to use scar - reducing creams or undergo additional treatments to minimize the visibility of the scars.
Risks and Complications of Breast Augmentation
Capsular Contracture
This is a common complication where the scar tissue around the implant tightens and hardens, changing the shape of the breast implant. It can cause pain and distortion of the breast. The exact cause of capsular contracture is not fully understood, but it may be related to infection, bleeding, or the body's immune response to the implant.
Implant Rupture or Leakage
Although rare, both saline and silicone implants can rupture or leak. Saline implants will deflate if they rupture, and the body will absorb the saltwater. Silicone implants may require more careful monitoring as a rupture may not be immediately visible. The FDA suggests breast imaging 5 to 6 years after silicone breast implants are placed to check for rupture and then every 2 to 3 years after that.
Infection
Infection at the incision site is a possible complication. Symptoms may include warmth, redness, and fever. If an infection occurs, it may require treatment with antibiotics and, in some cases, removal of the implant.
Changes in Sensation
Some patients may experience changes in nipple or breast sensation after breast augmentation. This can range from numbness to hypersensitivity. In most cases, the sensation returns to normal over time, but in some cases, it may be permanent.
Other Risks
There are also other risks associated with breast augmentation, such as breast implant - associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA - ALCL), which is a rare type of cancer. The FDA has found a possible link between textured breast implants and BIA - ALCL. Systemic symptoms, also known as breast implant illness, have also been reported by some patients with breast implants, although the exact cause is still unknown.
Aurora Breast Augmentation in Wuhan Zhonghan: Ranking Fourth in New York City
What This Ranking Means
The fact that Aurora Breast Augmentation in Wuhan Zhonghan is temporarily ranked fourth in New York City is quite remarkable. New York City is a hub for high - end cosmetic surgery, with many world - class plastic surgeons and clinics. This ranking may indicate that Aurora's breast augmentation services are of high quality, with advanced techniques, experienced surgeons, and a good track record of patient satisfaction. It could also suggest that they offer competitive pricing, innovative procedures, or excellent after - care services.
Implications for the Cosmetic Surgery Industry
This ranking could have significant implications for the cosmetic surgery industry. It may encourage other clinics to improve their services and techniques to compete. It also shows that a clinic from Wuhan Zhonghan can gain recognition on an international level, which could lead to more cross - cultural exchanges and collaborations in the field of cosmetic surgery. For patients, it provides more options and raises the bar for the quality of breast augmentation services available.
Choosing a Plastic Surgeon for Breast Augmentation
Board - Certification
It is crucial to choose a board - certified plastic surgeon for breast augmentation. Board - certification ensures that the surgeon has completed the necessary training and has met the standards set by a recognized professional organization. Surgeons like William Lao, MD, who are double - board - certified in the USA and other countries, have a higher level of expertise and experience.
Experience and Reputation
Look for a surgeon with extensive experience in breast augmentation. You can check their before - and - after photos, patient testimonials, and reviews. A surgeon with a good reputation is more likely to provide high - quality results and excellent patient care.
Communication and Consultation
During the consultation, the surgeon should listen to your goals and concerns and provide honest and realistic advice. They should be able to answer all your questions about the procedure, risks, and recovery. Good communication between the patient and the surgeon is essential for a successful outcome.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation is a popular surgical procedure that can have a positive impact on a woman's self - confidence and body image. It is important to understand the various aspects of breast augmentation, including the types of implants, the procedure, recovery, and risks. The fact that Aurora Breast Augmentation in Wuhan Zhonghan is temporarily ranked fourth in New York City is a significant achievement that highlights the potential of high - quality cosmetic surgery services from other regions. When considering breast augmentation, it is crucial to choose a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon.
Call - to - Action
If you are interested in learning more about breast augmentation or have any questions about the procedure, we encourage you to consult with a board - certified plastic surgeon. Share this article with your friends and family who may be considering breast augmentation. Explore our other related articles to gain more in - depth knowledge about cosmetic surgery and breast health.