Breast Augmentation

Breast size is a very important concern for many women. Some individuals, for example, feel dissatisfied with their body image and desire to have larger breasts. For many women, therefore, breast augmentation is a way to increase fullness and projection of the breasts thereby improving the balance in their figures and enhancing their feelings of self-image and self-confidence.

Breast augmentation, often regarded as the most common of cosmetic surgical enhancements, enlarges a woman's breasts through the placement of implants. Generally speaking, this procedure addresses the size, symmetry and overall appearance of the breasts. Patients who decide to have breast augmentations are typically women who desire fuller breasts, women who have birthed children, or women who have experienced weight reduction and have noticed more sagging and a decrease in breast size. Breast implants may also be

"Breast enlargement and a breast lift was the best thing I have ever done for myself. My breasts now look and feel natural. The procedure was not as painful as I expected. I was back to work within a week. I did not even have to take all the pain medication given to me. The scar is now barely visible. No one can tell that I have had this procedure done."

— Marilyn, 51

used for reconstructive purposes to restore a breast that is lost because of a mastectomy or an injury. In any case, breast implants afford women the opportunity to have fuller, natural appearing breasts and a more balanced figure.

Where do I begin?

A consultation with Dr. Daniel Golshani, a Beverly Hills plastic surgeon, is your first step to learning how breast augmentation can enhance your breasts' appearance and improve your body image. Dr. Golshani's consultations are designed to fully inform you about breast augmentation in a positive and non-pressured environment and will include:

A discussion of your goals
The options available in breast augmentation surgery
The likely outcomes of breast augmentation
Any risks or potential complications associated with this procedure
The course of treatment recommended by Dr. Golshani

Your Breast Augmentation

Daniel Golshani, M.D., F.A.C.S. performs breast augmentation using implants that are made of medical grade, biocompatible, textured or smooth silicone shells that are filled with sterile saline solution. Dr. Golshani is a lso a research panel member in the Mentor Silicone Gel Implant Study and will offer the new generation of silicone gel implants when study conditions are met by a prospective patient.

In addition to Dr. Golshani's recommendations, implant placement, type and size will be determined based on your breast anatomy, body type and desired increase in size. Consultation with Dr. Golshani should give you a clear idea of what to expect and enable you to decide on seven key factors:

saline or silicon
size of implants
round or oval (anatomic)
textured or smooth
under or over the muscle
location of incision site (to place the implants)
with or without a lift

Understanding and deciding on these seven elements will allow you to have clear expectations as to the results of the procedure.

Recovery and Healing

Following this procedure, patients should expect temporary soreness, minimal bruising, swelling, and changes in nipple sensations. Discomfort is common and can be alleviated with proper medication. A support bra and bandeau may be recommended for the first few weeks following surgery. It is imperative that patients follow all of Dr. Golshani's instructions carefully so as to ensure the best possible outcome. A return to light, normal activity is possible as soon as a patient feels ready and this is usually within a day or two following surgery.

Between 5 to 10 days following the procedure, your sutures will be removed. At this time, if you feel comfortable, you can return to work and resume your normal activity. You should not, however, engage in any heavy lifting or vigorous exercise. Intimate contact with breasts may resume when healing is fully completed, typically within 4 to 6 weeks.

Wound healing will continue for several weeks as swelling subsides, implant position settles and incision lines continue to refine. Continue to follow Dr. Golshani's instructions and attend all of your follow-up visits.

Results and Outlook

The initial results of your breast augmentation will be immediately apparent. Final results appear gradually over the next few weeks as your swelling resolves and breast size and shape settles. Incision lines will continue to fade over the next year. Regardless of whether you are at the beach or the boardroom, your new enhanced breast contour and the freedom to wear the clothes you enjoy should bring you self-confidence and added contentment with your body image.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there different kinds of implants?

A patient will have different implant options to choose from when undergoing a breast Augmentation. A patient can choose silicon or saline implants. The size of implants usually ranges from 250cc to 450cc. The patient can also choose between a smooth surfaced or textured surface implant.

There are two major manufacturers of breast implants: Mentor and McGhan. Both vendors carry warranties and lifetime product replacements for their implants.

Is it better to place the implant over the muscle or under the muscle?

Having the implants placed under the muscle is slightly more painful and has a relatively longer recovery period. Studies show that when under muscle, implants show improved long-term contour and form. Capsular contracture or breast hardening may also be decreased by positioning the implant under the muscle. To achieve optimal results, appropriate release of the pectoralis muscle must be performed using what is known as the "dual-plane" technique. While with an under-the-muscle procedure it will be easier for the patient to obtain a mammogram, all mammography is generally less sensitive with breast implants.

Can I breast-feed with breast implants?

Most women's ability to breast-feed is unaffected by breast augmentation. While , on average 50% of all women breast-feed, according to some studies, this ratio may be reduced to 40% in the breast augmentation population.

During your consultation with Dr. Golshani, he will address all of your questions and concerns. Risks, potential complications and alternative methos of management will be discussed in detail, followed by a review of many before and after photographs as needed.