By Dorothy Sullivan


Breast augmentation (or mammoplasty) is one of the commonest surgical operations performed worldwide. The reasons as to why persons may request to have this operation range from the need to have larger breasts to the correction of congenital developmental anomalies to the effecting of sex change among others. The operation is facilitated by prosthesis. There are a number of things on breast implants merrillville indiana residents need to know about.

There are two main types of implants that exist: silicone based and saline based types. Each is associated with various advantages and disadvantages. The silicone based type contains silicone gel within a rubber shell. It is less malleable but has a closer resemblance to the natural gland in terms of consistency. The saline type is more malleable hence requires just a small incision to be inserted in position.

There are different sites in which the implant can be placed. The common ones include an area under the breast, around the nipple or under the arm (axillary region). For the insertion to take place a small incision (surgical cut) is made and the glandular tissue separated from the underlying muscle to create a pocket. A saline implant is usually inserted when empty and filled later while a silicone implant is pre-filled with gel.

The surgery can be done in an inpatient or outpatient facility. General anesthesia is commonly used with local anesthesia being reserved for selected cases. The appropriate incision is made, the implant placed in position and stitching done. The entire exercise typically takes between 60 and 90 minutes. As soon as the anesthesia wears off, you can be released to go home (usually the same day).

When undergoing this procedure, there are a number of possible complications that one should anticipate. The short term complications include bleeding, nerve injury and infections. Long term complications include scarring, rupture of prostheses, leakage of silicone gel and changes to nipple sensation among others. Take time to discuss these complications with your doctor so that your risk can be assessed.

It is important to mention that results tend to vary among persons who undergo augmentation. Whereas a good number of people report a marked improvement in their body image, there are others whose results are not satisfactory and may need a revision of the procedure. Differences are caused by factors such as the type of technique used, the type of implant and the severity of the initial problem. You need to keep your expectations realistic by not expecting perfect result.

As you leave the facility, your wounds will be dressed and you may also have drains inserted. These drains facilitate the flow of excess tissue fluid. They are removed as soon as they have served their purpose which is usually within a few days. You may notice swelling and pain but these will resolve spontaneously over time. Over the counter pain relievers can be used to provide relief.

Apart from being an adult above the age of 18 years, there is not much in terms of criteria that has to be fulfilled. What is important is that you obtain as much information from your surgeon as possible. The surgeon should present you with all the available options including the techniques, type of implant, size, shape and so on. If you are a smoker, you will be well advised to stop the habit two months in advance at the very latest.




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