Breast

Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation is one of the most frequently performed cosmetic surgical procedures in the U.S. The reasons women elect to have breast augmentation surgery are varied and can range from desiring a more feminine appearance or better body proportion to having increased clothing options and self-confidence.

Also known as augmentation mammaplasty, the procedure can enhance the size and shape of a woman’s breasts using synthetic breast implants – a solid silicone, rubber shell filled with either saline or elastic silicone gel. Both saline and silicone gel breast implants are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Approval means that an implant has been rigorously researched and tested, and reviewed by an independent panel of physicians for safety.

Breast Lift

As women age, some experience an unwanted sagging of the breasts, which can be brought on by many factors. This change in breast position can often come with age, following major weight loss or sometimes following pregnancy, though other factors may be a cause. When this sagginess occurs, women often turn to a breast lift, or mastopexy, to reshape and reposition their breasts, as surgery is the only way to significantly correct this issue. A breast lift can also correct changes in nipple position and size.

Breast Reduction

Breast reduction (reduction mammaplasty) is designed for women with very large, pendulous breasts. Women who elect to undergo breast reduction surgery choose to do so not only for cosmetic reasons, but also to improve their personal health and comfort. Breast reduction is performed to reduce the size of overly large breasts.

Not only do some women undergo a breast reduction to slenderize their silhouette, but often they choose a breast reduction as a means to alleviate pain associated with overly large breasts. The breast reduction surgery achieves the result through the removal of fat, skin and glandular tissue; the breasts are then lifted and reshaped to make them firmer and smaller, often decreasing the size of the nipple and areola.

Breast Reconstruction

For women who have overcome breast cancer and a mastectomy, replacing the lost breasts is often the first task at hand when it comes to rebuilding. When women make the decision to undergo breast reconstruction, far more options exist than the traditional breast implant, though many women are not aware of their choices. In addition to breast implants, patients may undergo breast reconstruction using natural body tissue or synthetic implants.

Breast reconstruction may be completed immediately following a mastectomy or later at the patient’s discretion. Health insurance companies also usually cover most or all of the cost of breast reconstruction surgery, which may take place over several operations.