Breast augmentation is one of the most commonly requested cosmetic procedure, and patient satisfaction following breast augmentation is extremely high. Women desire breast augmentation for several reasons:

• They have always desired to have a larger chest
• They have lost volume after weight loss or pregnancy
• To correct asymmetry between the right and the left breast
• To correct congenital deformites such as “tuberous breast”
• To correct normal “drooping” that occurs with aging

Saline or Silicone implants are available for breast augmentation. They may be placed above or below the chest muscle, using either an incision through the axilla (armpit), around the areola, or underneath the breast. These decisions are individualized for each patient.

When performed correctly, breast augmentation does not have to be obvious to those around you. In fact, breast augmentation should result in a natural fullness to the breasts.  In some individuals, breast augmentation can be combined with a breast lift (mastopexy) if there has been significant drooping.

Where is the scar?
Breast implants can be placed through incisions around the nipple areola, under the breast crease, in the armpit, and even through the belly button. The placement of the incision depends on several factors including the shape of your breasts, the increase in breast size that you desire, and your body type. Dr. Alexander Sinclair, your surgeon will discuss each technique with you and recommend the one that is best for you.

Are the implants above or below the muscle?
The implants may be placed above OR below the chest muscle (pectoral is major). The choice of implant location depends on the size and shape of your breasts before surgery as well as your post operative activities. Dr. Alexander Sinclair, will discuss the location of the implants with you and recommend where it is best for you.

Is it possible that I will need a “lift” in addition to my implants?
Yes. The placement of breast implants does give a “lift” to the breast tissue. An implant may be all that is required to correct minor breast drooping, or ptosis.  However, in some women, the amount of drooping is too much to be overcome with an implant alone. In this situation, a breast lift, or mastopexy, may be recommended  at the same time as the enlargement to help create a more natural looking breast.

How long will the implant last?
It is hard to say. Implants may leak at any time however the incidence of leakage remains quite low and only starts to increase after 12-15 years. Many women have had implants for 30 years without problems. Implants will need to be removed or replaced only if there is leakage or significant scarring around the implant.

What types of implants are available?
Saline breast implants are the most commonly used types of implants in the United States. Silicone filled implants have been used extensively in other countries and until recently have been restricted for use in the United States, except in very specific situations. Silicone breast implants have recently received FDA approval and have been become quite popular for breast augmentation. Dr. Alexander Sinclair, will be happy to discuss with you in more detail the two types of breast implants and which may be best for you.