Breast augmentation is a major cosmetic surgery procedure involving a number of steps. While the surgical techniques to perform this procedure can vary, the overall steps largely remain unchanged. The surgery can be customized to suit the patient’s specific needs.
At the time of initial consultation, the surgeon will discuss about the steps involved in breast augmentation in order to familiarize the patient with the surgery. This will help mitigate her pre-operative anxiety and concern. Board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Angela Champion provides breast augmentation to patients in Newport Beach, Orange County, CA, and surrounding communities.
Anesthesia
The first step in the breast augmentation surgery is to place the patient under anesthesia. In most cases, general anesthesia will be used, and it may be administered by an anesthesiologist or a nurse anesthetist. The patient will be brought out of anesthesia once the surgery is over, but may feel grogginess and other side effects for a few hours.
In most cases, the patient may be allowed to return home the same day of surgery. However, she should arrange for someone to driver her back home once the surgeon determines that she is fit to leave. She should preferably have someone to accompany her for the first one or two days at home to assist with the daily chores.
Placing the Incisions
Following anesthesia, the surgeon will place the incisions in discreet locations, which could be in the breast crease, in the underarm area, around the lower half of the areola, or even in the navel area in a few cases. The goal will be to conceal the incisions and mitigate subsequent visible scarring.
The location and type of incisions will be determined during the surgical planning process. The surgeon will consider the patient’s anatomical and cosmetic needs and make the appropriate recommendations for incision placement. Board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Champion receives patients from Newport Beach, Orange County, CA, and nearby areas.
Placing the Implants
The breast implants may be placed in front of the pectoral muscle immediately behind the breast tissue or under the pectoral muscle. The implant placement will be determined after taking into account the implant size, the patient’s breast anatomy and her personal cosmetic goals. The benefits and limitations of each placement option will be discussed with the patient before making a decision.
Wound Closure
After the implants have been placed and adjusted into position in the breast tissue, the surgeon will carefully close the wounds with removable or absorbable sutures. Temporary drain tubes will be placed below the skin in the incision area. The patient will be instructed to keep the incision areas clean and dry to minimize the risk of infection. Strain in the incision areas should be minimal until the healing has progressed.
Bandages and Surgical Bra
The surgeon will cover the breasts with bandages immediately after the surgery to support healing and protect the wound. In a day or two, the bandages will be replaced with a special surgical bra. The patient will be required to wear this bra at all times for a few weeks as per the surgeon’s instructions.
To learn more about treatments and procedures by Board Certified Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon Angela Champion, M.D. contact us at 949.640.4005. Taking new patients from in and around Newport Beach | Orange County CA.