Augmentation Mammaplasty

Many women are dissatisfied with the shape or size of their breasts due to factors such as heredity, extreme weight loss, trauma, pregnancy, and age. Dr. Schmelzer routinely performs breast augmentation surgery (augmentation mammaplasty) in order to:

• Increase breast volume
• Improve breast shape
• Correct breast asymmetry
• Correct breast deformities
• Correct mastectomy results (see breast reconstruction)

Breast Augmentation Options

There are many options available with breast augmentation surgery. You will choose what size and type of implant to get, as well as the incision and implant placement locations. Your anatomy, personal preferences, and Dr. Schmelzer’s recommendations will all come into play in the decision-making process. Dr. Schmelzer will review these options with you in more detail during a consultation.

Incision Options

There are three incision options available for breast augmentation surgery. Dr. Schmelzer typically recommends the inframammary incision for silicone placement and the transaxillary incision location for saline implant placement.
Inframammary:
The incision follows the crease beneath the breast, where the scar will be hidden. This is the most frequently used technique.
Transaxillary:
The incision is made near the armpit, and the implants are typically placed below the chest muscles. No scarring will be apparent, but this is a more technical procedure that often requires a longer recovery time.
Periareolar:
The incision is made across or around the areola and involves minimal scarring.

Implant Options

There are two types of implants available for breast augmentation: saline or silicone. Most patients prefer silicone implants because they provide a more natural result. However, Dr. Schmelzer routinely uses both types of implants at his practice.
Saline
– Size can be adjusted after implant placement because they are filled once inside the breast
– Can sometimes feel firm, but placement behind the chest muscle improves this.
Silicone
– Feel more similar to a natural breast
– Less prone to rupture

Implant Placement Options

Subglandular:
Implants are placed above the pectoral muscles and below the breast tissue. Recovery time is quicker with this option.
Submuscular:
Implants are placed below the pectoral muscles. There is less risk of implant rippling with this placement, as the implants are better supported by the chest muscles.

Breast Augmentation Procedure Process

After general anesthesia is administered, Dr. Schmelzer will make inconspicuous incisions for the insertion of the breast implants. A pocket in each breast will then be created either behind the breast tissue or behind the pectoral muscles. The implants will be positioned for symmetry, and the incisions will then be closed with sutures.

Breast Augmentation Recovery and Results

Patients who increase their bust size by one or more cup sizes will notice results immediately following surgery. Discomfort and pain will be present for at least the first 24 hours, but Dr. Schmelzer will prescribe pain medication to increase your comfort. Swelling from the procedure can last for several weeks, but many patients return comfortably to work within five to seven days. Patients should avoid strenuous physical activity for three to four weeks.

In time, breast implants may need to be replaced due to age, fluctuations in weight, capsular contracture, hormonal factors, and/or implant failure. Should this occur, Dr. Schmelzer is available to perform breast implant revision or breast lift surgery to give you a rejuvenated breast appearance.

Breast Augmentation Potential Complications

As with any surgery, there are some risks associated with breast augmentation. These include but are not limited to:

• Capsular contracture
• Infection
• Implant wrinkling or rippling
• Implant rupture

Breast Augmentation Consultation

Dr. Schmelzer is dedicated to achieving the results his patients desire in the safest way possible. During a consultation, he will review all options, risks, and procedure steps in detail to ensure you feel completely comfortable with the process.

Dr. Schmelzer often performs other procedures in conjunction with breast augmentation, such as liposuction or tummy tuck surgery, to provide an overall aesthetic improvement.

If you are interested in breast augmentation procedures, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Schmelzer by calling (801) 743-0700. If you prefer, we also have an online contact form available to fill out. We look forward to hearing from you!