Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Breast Augmentation Philippines: Cosmetic Plastic Surgery

Breast augmentation or augmentation mammaplasty is a cosmetic and aesthetic procedure done to enlarge small, hypoplastic, underdeveloped breasts, performed to balance asymmetric breasts due to post mastectomy reconstruction, and give breast volume to women who have given birth. The operation is usually performed when the breast reaches its mature and final size after puberty at approximately 18 y/o. There are instances however when it can be done earlier such as when one is dealing with congenital breast hypoplasia with significant patient confidence and social issues.

An informative and meaningful consultation with a certified cosmetic plastic surgeon is the initial step a patient will take if she is considering a breast augmentation or augmentation mammaplasty. The patient is expected to discuss all expectations with regards to looking and feeling better after surgery. She should keep in mind though that the desired result is basically reasonable improvement or enhancement and never unreasonable and unachievable “perfection”. This is particularly true if the procedure is being done for reconstructive purposes as when performed after a mastectomy. Emotional stability in a potential patient is a prerequisite while reasonable expectation is a must. Having a “new” look from a breast augmentation will never guarantee a new, healthy and successful life. It solely improves appearance and possibly helps boosts self confidence. This is realistically what breast augmentation may just do for you. How you handle the positive physical effects and gains of an augmentation mammaplasty is actually up to you. It should be kept in mind that the objective of breast augmentation are breasts that look fuller and more natural in appearance.

A straightforward and simple Breast augmentation takes approximately an hour or two to complete however may take longer if combined with other cosmetic plastic surgery procedures. The procedure may be safely done in an outpatient setting or in a hospital basis under general anesthesia. Once under general anesthesia one will be sleeping soundly all throughout surgery. Local anesthesia may be infiltrated around the breasts in addition to general anesthesia.

There are several incisions which could be utilized by your plastic surgeon in his approach for placing the breast implant. The inframammary approach makes use of an incision just below the inframammary fold wherein the lower part of the breast connects with the chest. A periareolar approach is placed around the inferior border of the areola. The transaxillary approach utilizes an incision in the armpit. Each technique has its own advantages and potential downside.

Generally, the plastic surgeon lifts the breast tissue up together with the muscle to create a pocket for the implant. At times he may prefer creating a pocket without lifting the muscle. This is called the subglandular or subpectoral/submuscular placement of implants. There are numerous factors that come into play in deciding which technique to use. Your plastic surgeon will discuss everything with you.

Closure of the incisions are meticulously done by your cosmetic plastic surgeon. Though scars are inevitable and are natural consequences of any incision or surgery, your cosmetic plastic surgeon will try his best to keep them inconspicuous and hardly noticeable as possible. Following surgery, dressings will be applied over the wounds while bandages shall have to be maintained over the superior pole of the breasts to hold in place and prevent migration of the implants.

All operations have their risks and cosmetic plastic surgeries are no exceptions. Bleeding, infection, paresthesias, and healing problems are possible though not so common. Any pain or discomfort may be effectively controlled more often than not by the right oral medications. It is prudent however to inform your plastic surgeon or any staff member of any unusual and persistent problems. Swelling and bruising/ skin discolorations are common and expected and usually resolve in a week or two. A sense of numbness and tightness may be present which eventually improves and subsides. Post breast augmentation patients are instructed rest for at least a day and ordered to avoid any exertions. A sports bra shall replace the bandages in a few days while sutures will be out after a week. Most patients do return to work after approximately 2 weeks. Optimal results are seen after about 3 months.

For the potential plastic surgery patient in general, it is strongly advised to consult with a certified plastic surgeon . Patients are strongly encouraged to ask around and be properly and thoroughly informed regarding the procedures they desire whether it be cosmetic or reconstructive in nature. Your certified cosmetic plastic surgeon will display adequate knowledge, skill and care prior, during and after surgery.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Dr. Edwin Paul Magallona is a Board certified Plastic Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgeon based in Metro Manila, Philippines

For more information on Philippine Cosmetic Plastic Surgery..visit My Website or contact +639175006695/ (+632)5315692, 5315012

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