Introduction
Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic surgery that aims to enhance the size and shape of a woman's breasts. In New York City, the Orra Shine Breast Augmentation Plastic Surgery Hospital stands out as a notable facility in this field. This guide will provide you with comprehensive information about breast augmentation in general and what you might expect from the Orra Shine Hospital.
Why Women Consider Breast Augmentation
There are numerous reasons why a woman may wish to enhance the appearance of her breasts. Common concerns include:
- Feeling that the breasts are too small or disproportionate to the rest of the body. For example, a woman with a curvy lower body might want to balance her figure with fuller breasts.
- Having asymmetrical breasts, where one breast is noticeably smaller than the other. This can be a source of self - consciousness for many women.
- Experiencing changes in breast size and firmness due to aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can cause the breasts to lose volume, while aging may lead to sagging.
- Desiring to fill out clothing better and enhance self - esteem. Fuller breasts can make a woman feel more confident in her appearance.
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that works to increase or restore the size of natural breasts using artificial implants or, in some cases, fat from the patient's own body. From a cosmetic surgeon's perspective, the ultimate goal of breast augmentation is to enhance a patient's natural proportions and create a more symmetrical, aesthetically pleasing breast profile.
Types of Breast Augmentation Methods
Breast Implants
Breast implants are the most common method of breast augmentation. They are devices made of a soft silicone outer shell, filled with an FDA - approved silicone or saline substance and placed within the breasts under the existing breast tissue. Here are the different types:
| Type of Implant | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saline Breast Implants | Filled with sterile saltwater. If the implant ruptures, the saline is simply absorbed by the body and expelled without any harm. | Less expensive, require a smaller incision, and the visual obviousness of any rupture. Also, they may have less of a tendency toward capsular contracture in some cases. | Some people feel that they do not look or feel as natural as other types of implants and are prone to rippling and wrinkling. |
| Silicone Breast Implants | Filled with medical - grade silicone gel, which resembles the natural feel and texture of actual breasts. | More natural look and feel, and less tendency for visible rippling under the skin. | There's a small risk of the gel escaping into the breast implant pocket in the unlikely event of a rupture. Require a slightly larger incision and patients must be monitored regularly by their physician to assess for rupture. |
| Structured Saline Breast Implants | Saline breast implants with an internal structure that makes them more natural and realistic. | Combines some of the benefits of saline implants with a more natural appearance. | Relatively new technology, and may not be as widely available as traditional saline or silicone implants. |
| Gummy Bear Breast Implants | Form - stable silicone breast implants that maintain their shape even when the implant shell breaks. They have a tapered top that resembles the natural structure of the breasts. | Provide a very natural look and are less likely to fold or wrinkle. | More expensive and require a larger incision due to their firmer consistency. |
Autologous Fat Transfer
Breast augmentation through fat transfer removes viable fat cells from a region of the body with excess fat tissues, such as the thighs, abdomen, or hips, and injects the purified fat tissues into the breasts. The fat tissues are gently extracted from the body using liposuction, processed and purified, and finally injected strategically into the breasts. While this method can only increase the breasts by one full cup size, it has the benefit of being completely natural, and the surviving fat will last indefinitely.
Choosing the Right Surgeon
Selecting the right surgeon is crucial for a successful breast augmentation. At Orra Shine Hospital, here are the qualities you should look for in a surgeon:
Board Certification
Ensure that the surgeon is board - certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This certification indicates that the surgeon has met high standards of education, training, and experience in plastic surgery, including breast augmentation. For example, in New York City, many top - rated plastic surgeons are board - certified, and this gives patients confidence in their skills.
Experience
Look for a surgeon with extensive experience in performing breast augmentation procedures. A surgeon who has performed a large number of surgeries is more likely to have encountered a variety of cases and can handle any potential complications. For instance, a surgeon with over 10 years of experience in breast plastic surgery is generally more reliable.
Reputation
Check the surgeon's reputation among other medical professionals and patients. You can read online reviews, ask for referrals from friends or family, and speak to former patients. A surgeon with a good reputation is more likely to provide high - quality care and satisfactory results.
Communication Skills
The surgeon should have good communication skills and be able to listen to your concerns and goals. They should explain the procedure in detail, answer all your questions, and help you make an informed decision. For example, a surgeon who takes the time to understand your desired look and discusses the available options is a good choice.
The Consultation Process
Initial Consultation
The initial consultation is the first step towards determining if a breast augmentation will provide you with the results you desire. During this comprehensive consultation at Orra Shine Hospital, you will meet the medical staff and the surgeon. You should be prepared to explain what you would like to achieve with a breast enhancement procedure. The surgeon will request information about your medical history, including previous surgical procedures, health conditions, mammograms, breast biopsies, current medications, herbal supplements, and vitamins. If applicable, they also need to know about your alcohol consumption, nicotine, and/or recreational drug use.
After collecting this information, the surgeon will conduct a physical examination of your breasts. They will determine the health of the skin and the soft tissue of each breast, measure the base width of the breast, and note the quality of the breast skin. This information is collected to help them determine your optimum breast implant size and the ideal location for the pocket in which the implants will rest. Photographs are taken at this visit to assist with planning and will not be shown to other patients without your written consent.
Second Consultation
During the second consultation, the surgeon will help you choose the breast implant that will create the feminine silhouette that you desire. To determine the optimal breast implant for you, both your existing measurements and goals are taken into account. Sizers suited to your measurements are used to assist in selecting the optimal implant size.
The surgeon will also explain their plan for your surgery. They will let you know the length of your surgery, the location of your incisions, and what to expect during your recovery. You will also complete the necessary paperwork for the surgery. Depending on your medical history, the surgeon may advise you to discontinue certain medications prior to surgery. If you are a smoker, you must not smoke for eight weeks before or after the surgery. If you are over the age of 35 or have a family history of breast cancer, you will need to have a screening mammogram prior to your breast augmentation surgery.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Anesthesia
Breast augmentation can be performed with general anesthesia or IV sedation, also called twilight anesthesia. Anesthesia is administered and monitored by a board - certified anesthesiologist. The choice of anesthesia depends on various factors, such as your health, the type of procedure, and your personal preference.
Incision Placement
The incision for breast augmentation can be placed in different locations, and the choice depends on your needs and preferences. The common incision options include:
- Inframammary Fold (IMF): Placed underneath the breasts, just above the natural fold. This leaves a thin, 1 to 2 - inch scar that is easily concealed within the crease. Advantages of this incision type include a wider access point, allowing the surgeon to place larger silicone implants or gummy bear implants with precision.
- Periareolar Incision: Placed around the lower edge of the areola, or the darker area of skin surrounding the nipple. Surgeons will often use this incision type if they are also performing a mild to moderate breast lift at the same time.
- Transaxillary Incision: Placed near or within the armpit, generally in the fold where your arm meets your chest. This leaves a small scar within the armpit but achieves a breast augmentation with no scar on the breast itself.
- Transumbilical Incision: Involves an incision just above the belly button. Each breast implant is inserted through this incision and then brought up to the breast. Advantages of the transumbilical technique include a single scar with no scarring on the breast itself.
Implant Placement
Breast implants can be placed either over or under the chest muscle. Under - the - muscle placement may look more natural, have less tendency toward capsular contracture, and have less chance of visible rippling. However, over - the - muscle placement requires a shorter recovery period. The decision depends upon a number of factors including the type of implants you choose, the amount of breast tissue you have, and the look you want.
Some surgeons prefer a dual - plane placement, which creates a pocket for the implant beneath the muscle and the breast tissue. This dual - plane placement provides optimal coverage of the implant, avoids visible implant edges and rippling, and makes mammograms easier to perform.
Recovery and Aftercare
Immediate Post - Surgery
After the breast augmentation with implants, your chest may feel sore and stiff for about a week, and you’ll have to wear a compression bra to ensure proper healing. You will be monitored briefly in the recovery area to oversee your recuperation and then will be free to go home the same day. You must have an adult stay with you for the first night after surgery. Before leaving the recovery area, detailed instructions about recovery will be provided. You may be recommended to take a 2 - 3 hour nap after returning home, and then have something to eat with your pain medication. You may shower the same day to remove any markings left on the skin and should then begin to perform gentle arm exercises as described by the surgeon.
Short - Term Recovery
Swelling, bruising, and soreness are normal during recovery. Strenuous exercise and aerobic activity, including sexual activity, are restricted for the first ten days after breast augmentation. For patients with non - strenuous or desk jobs, they can typically resume work in five days, while those with more physically demanding jobs may need more time. The surgeon will prescribe pain medication for the first few days after surgery, and ice packs may also be helpful to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Long - Term Recovery
Most residual swelling will resolve itself after a month of recovery, and the breasts will achieve their final shape and size within six months. You should expect to remain out of strenuous activity and heavy lifting for at least two weeks after the procedure. You may return to chest exercises six weeks after surgery. It's important to follow all the aftercare instructions provided by your surgeon at Orra Shine Hospital to achieve the best results possible.
Potential Risks and Complications
Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation carries some risks. The risks associated with breast enhancement procedures will be discussed during the consultation. Some of these risks include:
- Infection: Can occur at the incision site or around the implant. Symptoms may include drainage from the incision, redness of the breast or incision, or pain. Infections are usually treated with antibiotics, but in severe cases, the implant may need to be removed.
- Bleeding: May occur during or after the surgery. This can lead to the formation of a hematoma, which is a collection of blood outside of the blood vessels. Hematomas may require additional treatment, such as drainage.
- Scarring: Incision scars are a normal part of the surgery. While they will fade over time, some patients may have a history of poor scarring due to conditions such as hyperpigmentation, which can result in more noticeable scars.
- Rippling: Visible or palpable wrinkling or rippling of the breast implant can occur, especially with saline implants or in patients with thin breast tissue.
- Rupture: Implants can rupture, although this is rare. Saline implants will deflate if they rupture, while silicone implants may require imaging tests to detect a rupture.
- Capsular Contracture: Occurs when the capsule of scar tissue that forms around the implant contracts and squeezes the implant. This can result in breasts that appear round and high and may feel very hard to touch. To minimize this risk, surgeons take precautions such as minimizing bleeding and avoiding contamination during the operation.
Cost of Breast Augmentation at Orra Shine Hospital
The cost of breast augmentation at Orra Shine Hospital can vary depending on several factors, including the type of implants used, the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon's fees, and the location of the hospital. Since breast augmentation procedures are considered cosmetic, they are not covered by health insurance companies in most cases. After the initial consultation, the surgeon at Orra Shine Hospital will be able to determine the exact cost of your procedure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, breast augmentation is a popular and effective way for women to enhance the size and shape of their breasts. Orra Shine Breast Augmentation Plastic Surgery Hospital in New York City offers a range of options for breast augmentation, including different types of implants and surgical techniques. By choosing a qualified and experienced surgeon, going through a thorough consultation process, and following the aftercare instructions, you can achieve the desired results and improve your self - esteem and body image.
If you are considering breast augmentation, we encourage you to schedule a consultation at Orra Shine Hospital. Speak to the professional staff and surgeon to learn more about the procedure, ask your questions, and make an informed decision about whether breast augmentation is right for you.
