Getting a new look and a new outlook
Breast enlargement is the most sought-after procedure performed by board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Ronald Friedman. Perhaps this is because most women not only look better after surgery but also feel more comfortable and confident about their appearance. Let us walk you through the process.
The Consultation
Dr. Friedman performs the entire consultation and will
personally address each of your questions. You will view
a large number of “before-and-after” photos, review
extensive written information, and have an opportunity
to speak to other women who have undergone the
procedure.
The Implants
For the past 14 years, saline implants were the only
FDA-approved devices for breast enlargement. In
November 2006, the FDA approved use of silicone
gel. Saline implants have the advantages of a smaller
incision (because they are not inflated until after
placement), a lower rate of capsular contracture (implant
firmness due to excessive scarring) and a substantially
lower cost. Silicone gel implants have the advantages of
a more natural feel and a lower risk of rippling.
Implants may be round or teardrop in shape. Round implants provide greater upper breast fullness, whereas teardrop implants preferentially increase lower breast fullness. The implant surface may be smooth or textured. Smooth implants have a slightly higher rate of capsular contracture (excessive implant firmness) but are thinner and more natural to feel.
Implant size is a critical decision, and the final decision
is yours. Stuffing your bra with implants is probably not
the best way to determine size. Instead, Dr. Friedman
will ask you to select photos of women with the breast
size that you desire. If the size is realistic for your frame,
he will match the size as accurately as possible during
your surgery.
The Surgery
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia
(provided by a physician anesthesiologist) at
Dr. Friedman’s AAAASF-accredited private outpatient
facility, Plastic Surgery Center.
Dr. Friedman generally uses a 3 cm (just over an inch)
incision near the fold under each breast. This small
incision is very inconspicuous in most women. The
implants can be placed above or below the chest
pectoralis major) muscles.
Although placement above muscle is technically easier
and faster, Dr. Friedman believes that the improved
results generally seen with submuscular placement are
well worth the time and effort.
Rather than “bluntly dissecting” the breast tissue,
Dr. Friedman cauterizes the tissues as they are being
elevated. This reduces bleeding, nearly eliminates
bruising, and makes compression bras and ACE
wraps unnecessary. The small incisions are closed
with internal, dissolving sutures; there are no stitches or
staples to remove. Like the consultation, Dr. Friedman
does not assign any portion of your surgery to a nurse
or physician’s assistant. He is committed to performing
each and every surgery from start to finish.
After Surgery
Discomfort is usually mild and well-controlled with
prescription medication. Most women return to light
activities within a few days. Heavy lifting and upper
body workouts should be avoided for four to six weeks.
A bra may be worn if desired but is not necessary.
The Results
According to extensive surveys, 95% of women who
have undergone breast enlargement are satisfied with
the results. However, no surgery is free of risk, and
complications, such as infection, bleeding, implant
deflation or excessive implant firmness, are possible.
Of interest, recent data submitted to the FDA by breast
implant manufacturers reveals that 26% of women
undergoing breast en