AUGMENTATION MAMMAPLASTY (Breast Prosthesis)

Indication:
Breast augmentation is indicated for patients with small breasts or those who, after lactation, had a major reduction of breast volume, without ptosis (drooping breasts). For some time, it has been hypothesized that silicon prostheses could bring harm to the woman's health (breast cancer, rheumatic disorders, etc.). After extensive studies conducted in the United States, it has been proven that those problems do not exist. Due to its features, a breast prosthesis should be changed each 10 years, in order to avoid its wearing off.

Type of anesthesia:
Local, with sedation, or general anesthesia.

Surgical technique:
Breast prostheses may be inserted through 3 different types of incisions (periareolar = around the nipple; submammary = in the breast crease; or transaxilar = in the armpit). The prosthesis may also be located in two different sites: under the gland or under the muscle.
Each method has advantages and disadvantages, and the choice should be made together, by the doctor and the patient, after a discussion about the pros and cons of each technique.

1. Local, with sedation, or general anesthesia.
2. The incision is made on the predefined área (periareolar, submammary or axilar).
3. The layer where the prosthesis will be placed is pulled apart, forming an empty space (under the gland or under the muscle).
4. The prosthesis is inserted.
5. The fat and the skin are sutured.



Note: Usually a drain is left in place, so that fluid collected in the first days does not remain close to the prosthesis.

Length of hospital stay:
From 12 to 24 hours.

Postoperative:
Postoperative is usually calm and painless. You should avoid making efforts with your arms for one month. The drain is usually removed on the 1st or 2nd day postoperatively.

Complications:
Although rare, the following may occur: hematoma, infection, extrusion of the prosthesis, contraction of the capsule formed around the prosthesis.

Definitive result:
The resulting shape is already quite evident in the postoperative period. During the first month, the edema (swelling) decreases and the healing process gains strength. As in every plastic surgery, the definitive result will be achieved after 6 months, due to the maturation of the scar.