Recognized as one of “Boston’s Most Trusted Doctors” by Boston magazine, Richard A. Bartlett, M.D. is a board certified plastic surgeon in practice for over 30 years Dr. Bartlett is considered a “doctor’s doctor,” and is a favorite choice of New England medical professionals when referring family and friends for cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery in Boston, Massachusetts.
Increasing breast size through plastic surgery is achieved through a procedure known as breast augmentation. Women who are unsatisfied with the shape and size of their breasts can achieve their desired cup size by choosing an appropriate implant size.
When it comes to breast augmentation, there are four important considerations one should take into account before undergoing the procedure. These are incision placement, the shape and size of the implant, implant type, and risk factors.
• Breast augmentation is performed by one of the many incision types (which include the inframammary incision, a commonly used technique).
• Each type of incision is associated with advantages and drawbacks that one must understand and learn more about with their doctor during a consultation.
• The shape and size of the implant are chosen based on the patient’s individual needs and goals.
• There are two types of breast implants: silicone and saline. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. While silicone implants offer a natural feel, saline is best for women with abundant breast tissue. Both implant types are approved by the FDA.
Breast Lift
A breast lift is performed when there is a significant depletion of breast volume. Under such circumstances, the breasts may appear to sag (ptosis). Breast ptosis is commonly associated with aging, childbirth, and drastic weight loss.
A corrective surgery to undo ptosis and rejuvenate the structure of the breasts is a breast lift. Breast ptosis is categorized into three degrees ranging from mild to severe. Depending on the degree of ptosis, a breast lift surgery is performed through one of the three techniques: inverted T incisions, vertical breast reduction, and periareolar lift.
Combining a Breast Lift and Augmentation
The primary objective of a breast lift is to trim excess skin and sagging tissue along with repositioning the areola. The expected results from a breast lift is firmer and younger looking breasts.
When a breast lift surgery is combined with an augmentation procedure, you’ll experience the best of both enhancement procedures. A combination procedure is best suited for women who are looking to increase their breast volume with an ancillary enhancement of the natural shape. Contrary to the misbelief that a combination procedure will prolong the recovery time, bouncing back from a breast augmentation/lift takes the same time as one procedure.
Is Breast Augmentation/Lift Right for You
Women who are eligible for a breast lift may also make good candidates for augmentation. A basic requirement which determines candidacy is that the patient is over the age of 18.
Women who’ve had children and are not planning on having another child are also eligible. Younger women, who have yet to have a child and are still thinking of the possibility, are encouraged to wait. If you are a smoker or in poor health, it may affect your chances of candidacy.
Recovering From a Breast Augmentation/Lift
Discomfort and swelling during the initial days post-surgery are expected. Experiencing some pain is likely but it will not be intolerable. Your doctor can also provide medication to help ease any discomfort you feel through the recovery process.
Stiffness during the first week of recovery is normal, especially when larger implants are used. Time taken for complete recovery is dependent on the size of the implants and other factors.
Any jobs or strenuous activities that involve lifting or anything else related must be avoided during the recovery period. It is advised that you have a support system in place during this time to help make this period easier. Throughout the process, you must wear a compression garment to promote healing.
Contact Our Office
Combining a breast augmentation with a breast lift can help you get the body you have always wanted in one efficient procedure. To learn more about the surgery and the benefits it can provide, contact our office to schedule an appointment with skilled plastic surgeon Dr. Richard Bartlett.
