Surgery of the breast is performed to enhance the size or shape of a woman's breast for cosmetic, medical or reconstructive reasons.

Breast Augmentation

(Augmentation Mammoplasty)

Throughout the ages, physical beauty has been determined by the values of each society.  In our western culture during the late 1890's, for example, the large breasted woman with a small waist was the ideal.  By contrast, in the1920's, women wanted slim bodies and very small breasts. Because an individual's body build is determined for the most part by genetic influences, diet and exercise alone may not be sufficient for people to achieve the look they desire.  Today, through modern technology, many women are able to alter the shapes of their bodies.  Some women with small, underdeveloped or asymmetrical breasts, for example, undergo breast augmentation, a safe, effective surgical procedure designed to improve the contour of a woman's body by implanting specially designed materials within the breast.

How is breast augmentation performed?

A breast augmentation is almost always performed in an outpatient surgical setting under general or local anesthesia.  The incision can be made in the lower portion of the breast, around the areola  (the dark pink area circling the nipple), or in the armpit, a location less frequently used.  Breast tissue is raised to create a pocket either under the tissue or beneath the chest muscle, depending upon which procedure is best suited to the particular patient.  An implant containing a saline (salt water) solution is inserted into the pocket and fine sutures are used to close the incision.  Following surgery, either bandages or a special garment may be used.

What can be expected following surgery? 

Any pain or discomfort connected with the surgery is controlled with medications.  Within a few days, the patient is fitted for a soft brassiere which is worn for several weeks.  Swelling and discoloration around the incisions diminish within a few days. In some cases, numbness may occur around the treated areas, but this condition is temporary.  The physician, based on the extent of the surgery and the patient's healing process, determines when normal activities can be resumed; however, strenuous exercise and overhead lifting must be avoided for several weeks.

Click Here for Before and After Examples

Return to Procedures

Breast Lift

(Maxoplexy)

With the passage of time, breasts can begin to look aged and droop.  This can also be a similar complaint of women much younger following pregnancy. This effect is generally caused by an excess of skin tissue compared with a deficiency in the amount of breast gland.  In many cases this causes the nipple to follow a downward direction. A mastopexy is a perfect solution for these problems.

What is a breast lift? 

A mastopexy or breast lift is a surgical procedure performed to elevate and reshape the breast.  Providing a more youthful appearance.  During a mastopexy the areola is usually decreased to regain a normal size and shape. Mastopexy 's may also be performed in conjunction with augmentation on candidates that have lost a significant amount of breast tissue over a period of time, to create a fuller and firmer appearance.

How is it performed? 

The mastopexy procedure is very similar to a breast reduction procedure with regard to the incisions.  The procedure is done under IV sedation or general anesthesia, generally lasting 2-3 hours.  There are several techniques for this procedure, the most commonly used being an anchor shaped incision which follows the natural contours of the breasts.  The excess skin is removed from the lower portion of the breast.  The nipple and areola are repositioned to a higher and aesthetically acceptable location.  This is done by moving the breast tissue surrounding the areola upwards, and sutures are then placed to hold the tissue in this new position.  Some breast tissue may need to be removed to obtain a nicer result.  Other cases may require an implant to be placed between the breast and the chest muscle, all done through the same incision.  In some women, the grade of ptosis or breast sagging is less severe. This appearance can be corrected through a concentric mastopexy incision.  In this procedure circular incisions are placed around the areola, and a donut of skin is then removed.  A permanent suture is placed to create a purse-string closure of the deeper layers of the outer skin.  The outer skin layer may then be closed with a permanent or absorbable suture depending upon the doctor's preference.

What can I expect following surgery? 

Immediately following surgery bandages and a bra are placed on the patient. The breasts will likely be tender and swollen for about a week or more.  The postoperative discomfort is quite tolerable, especially if implants were not placed.  If the implants are placed in combination with the mastopexy, patients often describe some tightness in the muscle due to spasm, which is controlled with medication.  Pain medication and antibiotics are prescribed following surgery.  After the follow up the patient is then able to shower.  The bra should be worn day and night for at least four weeks to support the healing incisions. There may be some numbness of the breast skin which usually returns in 6-8 weeks.  Scars will fade over time, depending upon the individual's health, age and skin type.

Return to Procedures

Breast Reconstruction

Reconstruction of the breast after a mastectomy due to cancer or other disease is quite possible with today's surgical procedures.  Using the newest  techniques, a plastic surgeon is often able to create a breast that is similar in form and appearance to that of the natural breast.  A consultation will provide you with information on the many available options for post-mastectomy breast reconstruction.

Return to Procedures

Breast Reduction Surgery

(Reduction Mammaplasty)

Very often, women with unusually large, sagging breasts are dissatisfied with their physical appearance.  Some even experience pain or discomfort from the pressure of brassiere straps on their shoulders.  Today, thousands of women with this condition are being helped through a surgical procedure called reduction mammaplasty or breast reduction.  This surgery is designed to improve body contour, reduce pain and make the individual more comfortable when engaging in physical activities.

How is breast reduction performed?

 A breast reduction is usually performed in an outpatient surgical setting under sedation or general anesthesia.  Prior to surgery, a complete breast examination is conducted and may include a mammogram.  One of several techniques may be used to perform a breast reduction, the most common being a brassiere pattern skin reduction.  This technique may involve a combination of vertical and horizontal incisions which resemble an upside down "T", as well as an incision around the nipple area.  In selected patients, there may only be the need for a vertical incision and the horizontal portion may be minimal or nonexistent.  Excess fat, tissue are removed from the sides of the breast, usually by using fine cannulae liposuction.  Following the excision, the nipple, areola (the pigmented area circling the nipple) and tissue below are relocated but not detached. Small sutures are used to close the incisions.  A second procedure, used on patients with extremely large breasts, includes complete detachment and relocation of the nipple.  However, because a detached nipple loses all sensitivity, this procedure is performed only when necessary.  Following surgery, either bandages or a special garment may be used.

What can be expected following surgery?

Pain or discomfort connected with the surgery is controlled with medications. Within a few days, the patient is fitted for a soft brassiere which is worn for several weeks.  Swelling and discoloration around the incision diminish within a few days. In some cases, numbness occurs around the treated areas, but this condition is temporary.  Patients are normally permitted to resume normal activities within one week.  However, strenuous exercise and overhead lifting must be avoided for several weeks.

Will insurance pay for the procedure?

Some insurance companies will pay for a portion of this surgery if it is performed on patients who are suffering from back, shoulder or neck pain, or in patients who experience neurological problems related to large breasts.  A detailed history and physical examination, as well as inquiry by our office staff with your carrier, can determine if a patient is eligible.

Return to Procedures