Breast Augmentation Breast Augmentation is a procedure where the breast is enlarged. The choice of increase in breast size is up to the individual, but also dependant on each patient’s unique anatomy. Dr. Slatton performs breast augmentation surgery using primarily inframammary incisions (in the fold the breast makes with the chest wall) or periareolar incisions (at the lower edge of the areola). Both incisions heal well with minimal visible scarring. Dr. Slatton uses both saline and silicone gel breast implants. The choice of the type of implant used is largely up to the patient. The sub pectoral pocket (beneath the muscle) is preferred because of more natural appearance, decrease in visible rippling, and lesser incidence of capsular contracture. The inframammary incision is about 1 inch in length for saline filled breast implants, while the incision is 2 inches or longer for silicone gel filled implants. Because of the longer length necessary for silicone gel breast implants, a periareolar incision may be preferable for patients who choose silicone gel implants The longer incision length for silicone gel implants is due to the fact that gel implants are pre-filled by the manufacturer, while saline implants are filled after surgical placement beneath the breast tissue and thus require a smaller skin incision for placement. These and other considerations are discussed thoroughly and with relevance to each individual at the time of consultation with the doctor. Breast augmentation is performed as an outpatient procedure. A friend or family member must accompany you to and from the surgery center or hospital on the day of surgery. Some discomfort after surgery is inevitable, but this can be significantly reduced with prescription pain medication, which is taken at regular intervals for the first several days after surgery. Be prepared to take at least a few days off work after the surgery until you no longer require pain medication during the daytime hours. Many patients can return to work within a week of the surgery. However, physical activity restrictions that apply for home and work will be necessary in the immediate postoperative period. Activities at home or work related which require lifting or carrying objects greater than five pounds, are prohibited for the first two weeks after surgery. Patients can begin limited exercise two weeks after breast augmentation surgery and most people can return to full activity, with a few exceptions, 6 weeks after surgery. The final post operative appearance may take 3 to 6 months to occur as the implants settle into the implant pocket. For this reason it is important that you attend your post op visits through this period of time to optimize your final result. David S. Slatton, MD