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What Is Involved in Breast Augmentation Surgery?

Posted on May 31, 2012 Breast Augmentation

Philadelphia plastic surgeon Dr. David A. Bottger recommends performing breast augmentation under general anesthesia. Once you have been placed under anesthesia, an incision is made in the location you discussed with Dr. Bottger during your consultation. Dr. Bottger uses three different breast augmentation incision locations: the inframammary (in the breast crease), the periareolar (at the edge of the nipple-areola complex), or the axillary (in the armpit). The incision is about 1-2 inches long, depending on the type of breast implant to be used in your procedure. Because Dr. Bottger recommends submuscular placement for breast implants, a pocket is created under the chest muscle. The pocket is made large enough for your chosen size and type of breast implant. The pocket is also placed to generally center the breast implant behind the breast and help you achieve the shape and appearance of breasts you desire, including cleavage and projection of the breast. Saline implants are inserted empty and filled in the pocket, so they can be inserted using a smaller incision. Silicone breast implants are inserted full, so they require a longer incision. Once the breast implants are in place, the incisions are closed with dissolving sutures. The incisions are dressed and a compression garment is placed on your chest. You will then be taken to the recovery room where you will wait until you are recovered sufficiently to be released. Have more questions about the breast augmentation procedure? Please contact David A. Bottger, MD today for a consultation.