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Breast enhancement procedures are among the most popular cosmetic surgeries globally and in Singapore, offering women various options to achieve their desired breast appearance. Whether aiming for larger, lifted or smaller breasts, these procedures cater to different needs and preferences.
This guide covers everything from consultation to recovery, helping you make an informed decision.
What is Breast Enhancement?
Breast enhancement encompasses a range of surgical procedures designed to alter the size, shape, and position of the breasts. These procedures aim to improve aesthetics, correct asymmetry, and address issues related to aging, weight changes, or pregnancy. The three primary types of breast enhancement surgeries are breast augmentation, breast lift, and breast reduction.
Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, involves increasing the size of the breasts using implants or fat transfer. This procedure is ideal for women seeking fuller breasts or wanting to restore volume lost due to weight loss or pregnancy.
Breast augmentation is performed mainly with silicone Implants: Filled with silicone gel, these implants feel more like natural breast tissue. Technological improvements have not just improved feel, but also minimized risk of complications.
Breast implants can be inserted via the periareolar (around the areola), inframammary fold (the fold under the breast) or the transaxillary (via an armpit incision) approach. The are usually placed either above or below the pectoralis major muscle, the latter in what is known as a dual-plane technique.
Fat Transfer:
Fat transfer breast augmentation uses liposuction to take fat from other parts of the body and inject it into the breasts. This method offers a more natural look and feel, with the added benefit of body contouring in the areas where fat is harvested.
Breast Lift
A breast lift, or mastopexy, raises and firms the breasts by removing excess skin and tightening surrounding tissue. This procedure is suitable for women with sagging breasts due to aging, pregnancy, or weight fluctuations.
Types of Breast Lifts
- Crescent Lift: Involves a small incision around the top half of the areola, ideal for minor sagging.
- Peri-Areolar Lift: Involves an incision around the areola, suitable for mild to moderate sagging.
- Vertical Lift: Involves an incision around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease, suitable for moderate sagging.
- Anchor/Inverted-T Lift: Involves incisions around the areola, vertically down, and along the breast crease, suitable for significant sagging.
Breast Reduction
Breast reduction, or reduction mammoplasty, removes excess breast fat, glandular tissue, and skin to achieve a breast size in proportion with the body and alleviate discomfort. This procedure is beneficial for women with overly large breasts causing back, neck, or shoulder pain.
The Procedure
Regardless of the type of breast enhancement surgery, the process involves several key steps:
Consultation
During the consultation, the surgeon evaluates your medical history, discusses your goals, and examines your breasts. You’ll discuss options, including implant types, incision locations, and expected outcomes.
Pre-Surgery Preparation
Pre-surgery instructions typically include avoiding certain medications, quitting smoking, and arranging for someone to drive you home post-surgery. You may need to undergo preoperative tests, such as blood work or a mammogram.
Surgery Day
On the day of surgery, you’ll be given general anesthesia. The procedure duration varies based on the type of surgery. After surgery, you’ll be monitored in a recovery room before being discharged.
Post-Surgery Recovery
Recovery varies depending on the procedure but generally includes the following:
Immediate Aftercare
- Bandages and Dressings: Your breasts will be covered in gauze and a surgical bra to minimize swelling and support healing.
- Pain Management: You’ll receive medications to manage pain and prevent infection.
- Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for a few weeks. Follow your surgeon’s advice on when to resume normal activities.
Follow-Up Appointments
Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor your healing process and address any concerns. Your surgeon will remove stitches, if necessary, and provide guidance on scar care.
Long-Term Care and Maintenance
Long-term care involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following your surgeon’s recommendations:
- Regular Check-Ups: Periodic visits to your surgeon help ensure the implants or surgical results are maintained.
- Healthy Habits: Maintain a stable weight, eat a balanced diet, and exercise regularly to prolong the results of your surgery.
- Monitoring for Complications: Be aware of any changes in your breasts, such as unusual lumps or changes in shape, and report them to your doctor immediately.
Are You a Suitable Candidate?
Breast enhancement surgery is a personal decision that involves multiple considerations. Suitable candidates typically:
- Are physically healthy and have realistic expectations.
- Are not pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Want to improve how they look and feel.
Consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon is essential to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for breast enhancement surgery. Your surgeon will consider your goals, health status, and other factors to recommend the best course of action.
Breast enhancement in Singapore
Embarking on a breast enhancement journey is a significant and deeply personal decision. We understand the concerns patients have, from choosing the right procedure to recovery and long-term results.
Our dedicated team at Polaris Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery is here to provide you with the expert advice and care you need. Schedule a consultation with us today, and let us guide you through every step of the process. Your comfort and satisfaction are our priority.
