Breast enhancement, also known as breast augmentation, is a cosmetic surgical procedure in which implants, made of a soft silicone shell and filled with either sterile salt water solution or silicone gel, are placed behind the breasts to enhance their size and shape. Contrary to the stereotypes often portrayed by the media, most women who are interested in breast enhancement are seeking only a modest increase of about 1 – 1 ½ bra cup sizes and generally, wish to appear “noticeable but not unnatural”. Some patients seek enhancement because their breasts never developed to a size that meets their expectations, while other patients desire improved balance in the proportion between their upper and lower body, allowing improved fit and greater flexibility in clothing styles. Still other women may want to establish symmetry between breasts of significantly different size (see ‘Breast Asymmetry Correction’).
Progressive loss of breast volume may commonly occur following pregnancy, weight loss or aging and is readily treated by breast augmentation. This procedure is performed in a State Licensed, Nationally Accredited Ambulatory Surgery Center (see ‘about Keystone Surgery Center’), on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia, lasting 1 ½ to 2 hours. The incisions are 1 to 1 ½ inches in length, placed inconspicuously in the natural crease under the breast or in the armpit area and are virtually undetectable in several months. Most women return to work in 1 to 2 weeks. With current digital technology, there is no problem obtaining a mammogram after breast implants have been placed, and implants have no effect on a woman’s ability to breast feed. Immediate gratifying results and long-lasting figure improvement combined with a confirmed safety record make breast enhancement an appealing choice for many women.
When considering breast enhancement surgery or indeed any cosmetic procedure, be sure to select a qualified, experienced plastic surgeon, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). As a board certified plastic surgeon with over 15 years of clinical practice experience and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), Dr. Robert Kimmel welcomes the opportunity to help you achieve your goals and enjoy a happier, more confident lifestyle.
