Do Plastic Surgeons Perform Breast Implant Surgery? Understanding the Procedure and Its Specialists
Yes, plastic surgeons are the medical professionals who specialize in performing breast implant surgery. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the procedure, the role of plastic surgeons, and what to consider if you’re exploring breast augmentation options.
The Domain of Plastic Surgery: A Specialized Field
Plastic surgery is a broad surgical specialty encompassing reconstructive and aesthetic procedures. Breast augmentation, using implants to enhance size and shape, falls squarely within the domain of aesthetic plastic surgery. Do plastic surgeons do breast implants? Absolutely. It’s a core part of their training and expertise. They possess the skills and knowledge required to assess a patient’s suitability, perform the surgery safely, and manage any potential complications.
Reasons for Choosing Breast Implants
Women consider breast implants for various reasons, including:
- Increasing breast size for a more proportionate figure.
- Restoring breast volume lost after pregnancy or weight loss.
- Correcting breast asymmetry.
- Reconstruction after mastectomy (breast cancer surgery).
- Boosting self-confidence and body image.
The decision is personal, and a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is crucial to determine if breast augmentation is the right choice.
Types of Breast Implants
Several types of breast implants are available, each with distinct characteristics:
- Saline Implants: Filled with sterile saline solution. If a leak occurs, the saline is safely absorbed by the body.
- Silicone Gel Implants: Filled with silicone gel, offering a more natural feel. Requires regular monitoring to detect leaks.
- Gummy Bear Implants (Highly Cohesive Silicone Gel): A firmer silicone gel that holds its shape well. Retains shape even if the implant shell is damaged.
- Smooth Implants: Have a smooth outer shell.
- Textured Implants: Have a textured outer shell, designed to reduce the risk of capsular contracture (scar tissue formation).
The choice of implant depends on the patient’s preferences, anatomy, and the surgeon’s recommendation.
The Surgical Procedure: A Step-by-Step Overview
The breast augmentation procedure typically involves the following steps:
- Anesthesia: General anesthesia is usually administered to ensure patient comfort.
- Incision: The surgeon makes an incision in one of the following locations: inframammary fold (under the breast), periareolar (around the nipple), transaxillary (in the armpit), or transumbilical (through the belly button – less common).
- Pocket Creation: A pocket is created either under the breast tissue (subglandular) or under the chest muscle (submuscular) to accommodate the implant.
- Implant Placement: The selected implant is carefully inserted into the pocket.
- Closure: The incision is closed with sutures.
- Recovery: The patient is monitored and provided with post-operative instructions.
Choosing the Right Plastic Surgeon
Selecting a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon is paramount for a successful outcome. Consider the following:
- Board Certification: Ensure the surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). This indicates they have met rigorous training and competency standards.
- Experience: Ask about the surgeon’s experience with breast augmentation procedures. How many have they performed?
- Before-and-After Photos: Review the surgeon’s before-and-after photos to assess their aesthetic sense and surgical skills.
- Patient Reviews: Read online reviews from previous patients.
- Consultation: Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals, expectations, and any concerns you may have.
Do plastic surgeons do breast implants? Yes, but choosing the right one is crucial.
Potential Risks and Complications
Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation carries potential risks and complications, including:
- Capsular contracture (scar tissue formation around the implant)
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Changes in nipple sensation
- Implant rupture or leakage
- Asymmetry
- Anesthesia complications
It’s important to discuss these risks with your surgeon and understand the measures taken to minimize them.
Recovery and Aftercare
Proper recovery is essential for optimal results. Follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully, which may include:
- Wearing a surgical bra or compression garment.
- Taking pain medication as prescribed.
- Avoiding strenuous activities.
- Attending follow-up appointments.
Full recovery can take several weeks to months.
Capsular Contracture: A Common Concern
Capsular contracture is a common complication where scar tissue forms around the implant, causing it to become firm and potentially distort the breast shape. Treatment options range from massage and medication to surgical removal of the scar tissue or implant replacement.
| Grade | Description |
|---|---|
| I | Normal, breast is soft and looks natural. |
| II | Breast is slightly firm, but looks normal. |
| III | Breast is moderately firm and may appear distorted. |
| IV | Breast is hard, painful, and significantly distorted. |
Costs Associated with Breast Augmentation
The cost of breast augmentation can vary depending on several factors, including:
- Surgeon’s fees
- Anesthesia fees
- Facility fees
- Implant costs
- Post-operative care
It’s important to obtain a detailed cost estimate from your surgeon’s office before proceeding with the surgery. Insurance typically does not cover breast augmentation for cosmetic purposes.
Long-Term Considerations
Breast implants are not lifetime devices. They may need to be replaced or removed at some point in the future due to complications or patient preference. Regular check-ups with your plastic surgeon are important to monitor the health of your implants. And yes, if you require future revision surgery, do plastic surgeons do breast implants as revision surgeries? Absolutely, they do.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do breast implants typically last?
While breast implants are designed to be durable, they are not considered lifetime devices. The lifespan of an implant can vary, but many women choose to have them replaced or removed after 10-15 years due to potential complications, changes in aesthetic preferences, or general wear and tear. Regular monitoring and check-ups with your plastic surgeon are crucial for determining the health and integrity of your implants.
What are the different incision options for breast implant surgery?
There are several incision options for breast implant surgery, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Common options include the inframammary (under the breast), periareolar (around the nipple), and transaxillary (in the armpit) incisions. The best incision for you will depend on your anatomy, desired implant size, and the surgeon’s recommendation.
Can I breastfeed after getting breast implants?
Many women can successfully breastfeed after getting breast implants, but it’s not guaranteed. The ability to breastfeed can be affected by the type of incision used, the placement of the implant, and individual factors. Discuss your desire to breastfeed with your plastic surgeon during your consultation to understand potential risks and strategies to maximize your chances of successful breastfeeding.
What is capsular contracture, and how is it treated?
Capsular contracture is a common complication of breast implant surgery where scar tissue forms around the implant, causing it to become firm and potentially distorted. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the contracture and can include massage, medication, or surgery to release or remove the scar tissue or replace the implant.
How much does breast augmentation surgery cost?
The cost of breast augmentation surgery varies widely depending on factors such as the surgeon’s fees, anesthesia fees, facility fees, and the type of implants used. A typical range can be from $5,000 to $15,000 or more. It’s crucial to obtain a detailed cost estimate from your surgeon’s office that includes all associated fees.
What is the recovery process like after breast implant surgery?
The recovery process after breast implant surgery typically involves wearing a surgical bra or compression garment, taking pain medication as prescribed, and avoiding strenuous activities for several weeks. Swelling and bruising are common and will gradually subside. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.
Are breast implants safe?
Breast implants are generally considered safe, but like any surgical procedure, they carry potential risks and complications. The FDA has approved both saline and silicone gel breast implants for use in breast augmentation and reconstruction. Discuss any concerns about safety with your plastic surgeon during your consultation.
What is a breast implant revision surgery?
Breast implant revision surgery is a procedure to correct problems or address changes with previously placed breast implants. Reasons for revision surgery may include capsular contracture, implant rupture or leakage, changes in breast shape or size, or patient dissatisfaction with the original results. Again, do plastic surgeons do breast implants as revision surgery? Yes, it’s a common procedure.
How do I choose the right implant size?
Choosing the right implant size is a collaborative process between you and your plastic surgeon. It involves considering your body type, desired breast size and shape, and your expectations. Your surgeon will take measurements and discuss different implant options to help you make an informed decision.
What are the different types of breast implant placement (subglandular vs. submuscular)?
Breast implants can be placed either subglandularly (under the breast tissue) or submuscularly (under the chest muscle). Each placement option has its own advantages and disadvantages. Submuscular placement may provide better coverage for the implant and reduce the risk of rippling, while subglandular placement may result in a more natural look.
Do I need to replace my breast implants eventually?
While not always necessary, breast implants are not considered lifetime devices. Many women choose to have them replaced or removed after 10-15 years due to potential complications, changes in aesthetic preferences, or general wear and tear. Regular monitoring and check-ups are essential.
How can I find a qualified plastic surgeon for breast augmentation?
To find a qualified plastic surgeon, look for someone who is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). Also consider their experience with breast augmentation procedures, review before-and-after photos, read patient reviews, and schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and expectations.