Breast Augmentation
The Austin, TX specialist
Plastic / Cosmetic Surgeon Dr. Parker
located in Austin, TX.
Breast augmentation, also known as mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure performed to enhance the shape and size of a woman's breasts, using breast implants. The breast augmentation continues to be one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in Austin as well as other areas of Texas. This procedure can help to make the breasts more proportionate to the rest of the body, even out breasts which are different in size or shape, and it can enlarge and reshape breasts which have lost their fullness or shape due to weight loss, pregnancy, breast feeding, or age. Breast augmentation can also be used for reconstructive purposes on patients who have undergone mastectomy or those with a congenital breast deformity.
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The best candidate for breast augmentation is a woman over the age of 18 who is unhappy with her breast size or shape and looking to alter their appear-ance. Patients must be
psychologically stable, physically healthy, and have realistic expectations. Breast augmentation can enhance the look of the breasts, and often has the added benefit of increasing one's self confidence.
THE SURGERY
Breast augmentation typically takes between one to three hours to complete and may be performed under general anesthesia or a combination of local anesthesia and sedation.
Dr. Parker will visit with you about placement of the implants under the chest wall muscle with the Saline Implants or on top of the muscle with the Silicone implants.The Silicone implants can also be placed under the muscle and the advantages and disadvantages will be discussed at the consultation. Once the incision is made, the breast tissue is lifted to make a space or pocket into which the implant is then inserted. The implant is typically a silicone shell that is usually filled with a saline or silicone
solution. Saline implants are inserted empty and then filled, allowing for minimal scarring. After the implant is inserted, the incisions are then closed. The Silicone implants are prefilled. Tape may be used for added support and the breasts may also be wrapped with gauze or other bandages. A drainage tube may be placed at the incision site if necessary in order to drain fluid.
THE RECOVERY
After surgery, patients often feel somewhat sore, tired and stiff, which can last for several days. Some degree of pain is usually experienced because the procedure stretches the tissues, though the submuscular placement of the implants is typically associated with more pain. Dr. Parker will prescribe pain medication to help alleviate any pain or discomfort you experience. Dr. Parker may also request that you keep your arm extensions to a minimum,
raising your elbows no higher than your armpit, for three to five days after surgery.
A few days after surgery, any bandages that were applied are usually removed. Many times, patients are required to wear a support bra or compression bandage to help support and position the breasts. Drainage tubes, if used, are usually removed within a few days after surgery. Sutures are usually removed within a four days after surgery.
The breasts may feel tight at first as the skin adjusts to the new breast size, and the breasts themselves may seem firm at first, though they do soften in time. Swelling is common and usually begins to fade within a few weeks. Increased sensitivity to physical contact of the breasts may occur for a month or longer. The scars will be pink right after surgery and for several weeks, but will fade over a period of several months.
The amount of time it takes to recover will be different for each patient. However, most patients find that they can return
to work a few days after surgery. Nonetheless, you will need to refrain from overly strenuous activities for several weeks.
RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS
All surgery carries some degree of risk. However, there are certain factors which increase your risk of complications. Be sure to inform Dr. Parker of any medical conditions that you have, if you smoke, if you are on any medications, and if you have had any previous surgeries near the site to be treated. You can greatly reduce these risks by carefully
following all pre and post surgery instructions.
As a patient, you deserve and should demand excellence. Make sure your cosmetic surgery is performed by a a board certified plastic surgeon in an approved facility such as the Parker Center. If you are unhappy with your breast, call our office today to set up an appointment to meet with Dr. Parker. He can tell you if you are a good candidate for Breast Augmentation.
Call our Austin, TX office today at (512) 732-3004 to schedule your consultation. We look forward to meeting you in person. Dr. Parker is a member of the ASPS and ASAPS associations and is also active in the local community organizations. Dr. Parker supports (Austin City Hall, Austin Chamber of Commerce, Austin Realty Board, and Austin Rotary
.Visit our plastic / cosmetic surgery office located in Austin, Texas (TX) near the areas of West Lake, Lake Austin, Rosedale, North Loop, Hyde Park, Windsor Park, Coronado Hills, Windsor Hills, Heritage Hill, University Hill, Crestview, West Lake Hills, Barton Hills, and Sunset Valley.
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