Breast augmentation (Breast Prosthesis, implant)
Indication:
Breast augmentation, also known as breast implant surgery, is indicated for patients with small breasts or had significant reduction of breast volume after breastfeeding, without breast ptosis.
For some time, it was hypothesized that the silicone prosthesis could bring harm to women’s health (breast cancer, arthritis, etc.). After extensive studies conducted by doctors in united states, the absence of these misdeeds was proven.
We recommend periodic replacement of prostheses to prevent any decline in quality. Due to increased quality of the prosthesis, it is estimated that the change should be accomplished in approximately 15-20 years.
Anesthetic type:
Local with sedation, or general.
Surgical technique:
Dr. El Hachem advises that the breast implant may be placed through three different incisions (periareolar = around the areola, sub mammary = in the breast crease or axillary = through the underarm). The location of the prosthesis can be in two different places: below the gland or below the muscle. Per the instructions of Professor Pitanguy, Dr. El Hachem places the implant under the gland (retroglandular plan).
Types of breast implants:
There are several types and models of breast prostheses, each with an indication depending on the patient’s breast.
There are several types and models of breast prostheses, each with an indication depending on the patient’s breast.
The breast prostheses may have varying profiles, content and
cover. The profile (shape) can be circular (low, moderate, high) or anatomical (“teardrop”). The content can be silicon or saline (saline prosthesis). The prosthesis cover can also vary; it can be textured or with polyurethane.
The choice of the ideal breast prosthesis will be made during the medical consultation, when Dr. El Hachem will examine you and choose the appropriate prosthesis to produce a better result for your breast .
Length of stay:
12 to 24 hours.
Postoperative:
The postoperative breast augmentation is usually tranquil, with minor pain. Avoid efforts with your arms for one month. In general, there is no drain.
Complications:
Although rare, there may be hematoma, infection, extrusion of the prosthesis, capsule contracture which is formed around the prosthesis and anesthetic problems.
Definitive result:
The result, on the form, is already quite evident in the postoperative period. During the first month there is resorption of the edema (swelling). Like any plastic surgery, the final result of breast augmentation occurs after 6 months due to the maturation of the scar.
Frequently asked questions to Dr. Charbel EL Hachem
1) Does Breast Augmentation leave scars?
Every surgery leaves scars. Fortunately, this surgery allows Dr. El Hachem to place the scars in hidden places. The scar is usually small, which added to a hidden location is very discreet. The size of the scar, usually 4cm, will be as small as possible to insert the breast prosthesis.
2) Where are the scars located?
Dr. El Hachem prefers to place them in the groove formed between the breast and the thorax (inframammary fold). It can be placed in the area around the nipple, and even in the underarm area (axilla). The size of the scars is the same regardless of location, as it is the smallest size that allows the placement of the breast implant chosen.
3) How will the size and consistency of my new breasts be after breast augmentation?
Dr. El Hachem aims to improve the volume, consistency and shape of the breasts by surgical intervention preserving the harmony between the ideal volume of the breasts and the size of the chest. Breast prosthesis has a greater consistency than normal breast tissue.
4) Can I choose the shape of the prosthesis that I want?
Each patient differs from the other relative to volume, shape and consistency of the breasts. Therefore, not because a friend or model had a certain type or volume of breast implant means you should do the same. Each patient has an ideal breast prosthesis, which will be chosen in consultation with Dr. El Hachem after close examination of your breasts and biotype.
5) Is there a risk of Breast Prosthesis rupture?
The breast implants are very durable and stretchable material. A trauma would have to be very strong to rupture them. In the case of a trauma break, the implant would probably help prevent further damage to the lung and ribs, acting as an impact absorber. In this case, the prosthesis could be replaced with the same scar already used.
6) When will I obtain the final result of Breast Augmentation?
Dr. El Hachem provides immediate results that are very good (70%), with the final shape being achieved after 6 months. Most edema (swelling) resolve after 2 months after placement of the prosthesis, which is the period of greatest changes in the breasts.
7) In the case of new pregnancy, will the result remain or be harmed?
During pregnancy the breasts increase in size, and decreases after lactation. This leads to the distension of the skin, which may not return to normal after lactation. If this happens there may be a ptosis (drooping) of the breast. The prosthesis itself does not change with pregnancy or breastfeeding.
8) Does Breast Prosthesis interfere with breastfeeding?
No. Breast implants don’t affect breast growth during pregnancy and breastfeeding in anyway.
9) Is Postoperative surgery painful?
Generally, no, as long as you follow the Dr. EL Hachem instructions, especially regarding the handling of arms in the early days.
10) Is there a change of sensitivity of the breasts after Breast Augmentation?
Often there is a change of sensitivity after the introduction of breast prostheses that usually returns progressively to normal after several months.
11) Is there a risk in Breast Augmentation?
It is rarely that breast augmentation suffers serious complications. This is because of accurate preparations of each patient, as well as considerations in the convenience of the surgery. The risk is not greater or less than traveling by plane, car, or cross a public road!
Breast reduction
Recommendations
Preoperative recommendations:
1) Communicate with the surgeon two days before the operation, in case of flu or illness.
2) Show up in the indicated hospital, obeying the previous scheduled set by the surgeon.
3) Avoid alcoholic beverages or large meals the day before the surgery.
4) Avoid any medication for weight loss that may be used, for a period of 21 days before the surgery. This also includes diuretics.
5) Schedule your social, domestic or school activities so as not to become indispensable to others for a period of about 20 days.
6) Avoid smoking for at least 30 days prior to surgery.
7) Keep fasting eight (8) hours before the scheduled time of surgery.
8) Avoid any medication containing acid acetylsalicylic (ASA, Aspirin, etc…) or any medication with effect anticoagulant at least 7 days prior to surgery
Postoperative Recommendations:
1) Avoid any effort in the first 30 days.
2) Do not move your arms excessively, do not raise the elbow above the shoulder for at least 21 days.
3) Use the surgical bra for at least 60 days.
4) Follow your prescriptions closely.
5) Normal diet (except specific cases where one should receive proper guidance).
6) Do not worry about the intermediate forms in various stages. Talk to us about any doubts.
7) Avoid any medication containing acetylsalicylic acid (ASA, aspirin etc…) or any medication with anticoagulant effect at least fifteen (15) days after the surgery. In the case of pain, Paracetamol can be used.
