"Breast"
Breast Augmentation

Breast Enlargements: frequent corrections
One of the most performed aesthetic corrections is a breast enlargement. Dr. Myny has already performed hundreds of breast enlargements in his clinic. It is a very rewarding operation: basically it is a small surgical procedure but one with a very satisfactory outcome for the patient.

Who is a good candidate for breast enlargement?

Generally, two groups of patients can benefit from a breast enlargement. Firstly, any woman who is not completely satisfied with her cup size is a good candidate for breast enlargement. An increase of one or two cup sizes with young women is realistic, while older women or women who have had a child can have an increase of a couple of cup sizes. Women often choose to have a breast enlargement in order to obtain larger and fuller breasts, but breast enlargements are also an excellent way to correct sagging breasts due to pregnancy, weight loss or ageing. Slightly sagging breasts look plumper and regain a more beautiful shape with a little extra filling.

The first consultation

Your wish is very important, but the plastic surgeon must determine how realistic your wish is. He will examine how much space is available under the present gland tissue and skin tissue and tell you what the various options are. It is extremely important that you are well informed.  A breast enlargement is an important step and we do not want you to make a hasty decision: neither about the implant (such as silicone), nor about the desired cup size. The main question implies, of course, the breast volume. However, the patient must not forget that it is not only the size that matters to obtain a beautiful and natural result. Three elements are important for a successful operation: first of all the volume but also the natural shape and flexibility and softness of the breast. Hence, these three elements should be taken into account. As you have probably already noticed: the breasts may have become larger but they may have lost their natural shape and agility. Some women, however, do like the slightly unnatural bulging of the upper part of the breast. Above the nipple there is a bulging that is visible when wearing a push-up bra. This is technically possible if you want this, but do not forget that this kind of bulging is somewhat artificial.


The patient who is considering breast enlargement surgery, must make three decisions. These are important questions because they are crucial in order to obtain a natural result.

• type of implant
• location of the incision (under the breast, nipple or armpit)
• size of the implant (the desired cup size)

Type of implant

There are different types of implants. As a patient, you will be informed in great detail about the various possibilities of breast enlargements, but the final decision is yours. You can choose from implants based on silicone, hydrogel and water-filled implants (saline). We only use implants that are medically approved because your safety is our primary concern.

The round silicone implant is most frequently used. It gives a good result because silicone is more or less similar to gland tissue and fatty tissue in terms of consistency: the breast feels very soft and natural. The covering of the implant is very strong. It is perfectly understandable that some people have questions about the safety of silicone. Extensive scientific research has proved that there is no link between silicone implants and breast cancer or any other disease. Silicone is the most commonly used material in the production of pacemakers, artificial joints, prostheses and cosmetics. Despite the attention in the media for the dangers of silicone, there is no evidence up until now that breast enlargements with silicone implants may lead to diseases of the immune system or other diseases.

On request, a teardrop shaped implant (the so-called anatomic implant) can be used. This is a breast implant with solid silicone gel which retains its shape and therefore – in case of damage – does not leak silicones into the body. One of the disadvantages is that this implant is stiffer and harder than the standard silicone implant. It is also slightly more expensive. Another disadvantage is that these implants may rotate in the body, by which the filling that is normally located in the bottom part moves up above the nipple. This results in a very unaesthetic looking breast.

Location of the incision

The surgeon can place implants in different ways: via the breast fold, through the nipple or the armpit. Which method the surgeon chooses depends on your build, the cup size you want and your personal desire. The incisions are made where they are least visible.

Size of the implant: the new cup size

During the interview you are asked which cup size you want. The cup size will be determined with the patient by using external prostheses that are put in your bra. It is therefore important that you wear a sports bra without pads. This allows you to get an idea of your new cup size.
Remember: the bigger the implant, the more unnatural the result may be. Especially in women with very little glands and skin.

The preparation

You will receive extensive instructions in order to prepare properly for the operation. You need to buy a sports bra with a cup size as agreed. Preferably you will buy a sports bra with front closure. You should bring this bra to the hospital. This bra will serve as a bandage when you are discharged from the hospital. Under certain circumstances some preoperative examinations may be necessary. Medication use must sometimes be stopped or modified before the operation. The patient may leave the hospital the same day. It is necessary to arrange for someone to pick you up and take you home safely. It is also recommended to organize some household help because we advise you to take a few days rest after surgery.

The operation

The operation takes about one hour. You wake up with - in most cases - a small tube (drain) on both sides which will be removed a few hours later. You may go home the same day, but under supervision: arrange for someone to pick you up and take you home safely.
In some clinics, breast enlargements are also carried out under local anesthesia. But experience has shown that this may involve additional risks. General anesthesia is the best method for a safe operation. The anesthesiologist remains present throughout the operation and ensures you a completely painless breast enlargement. Afterwards you can recover quietly.

After the operation

The first days you will feel a light stowage in your breasts and they could also be painful. Your arms may also be more sensitive. This is perfectly normal and will disappear spontaneously. After one to two weeks the stitches can be removed. It is important for your breasts and scars to take some rest during the first three weeks after surgery. Try to take it easy and avoid practicing sports. Bathing and showering is permitted from the day after surgery. After a few days you can get back to work.
The result of the operation is immediately visible but is not yet final. The actual result will only be visible when your breasts are not swollen anymore. That takes about six weeks.

Complications

Serious complications with breast enlargements are extremely rare. General complications are bleeding and inflammation. Specific complications are capsule formation and temporary feeling of numbness of the nipple(s). Any foreign material (as a breast implant actually is) is wrapped by a thin connective tissue layer called the capsule. The formation of this capsule is absolutely normal. In some women this capsule may contract, which is unusual. This allows the breast to feel hard, the breast is painful or changes in shape. Because implants with a roughened surface are often used, the problem of capsule formation has become less frequent than before. Should it occur, a new operation may be necessary.