More beautiful breasts

Breast augmentation

Many women want to feel more feminine and one way to achieve this is by enhancing their breast shape by surgical means. Some may feel a sense of inadequacy or loss of femininity because they are flat-chested, or others may be unhappy because of a loss of tone and shape following childbirth and breast feeding. Additional reasons may include unequal development of the breasts, or even a lack of breast development itself.

The procedure is performed as day surgery and patients are able to return to light activity in a couple of days and normal activity after two weeks.

There are many ways to perform breast augmentation and each patient should discuss her needs with the surgeon to achieve the best advice for the most favourable result.

Minor displacements of implants may occur after surgery, but are generally not different from variations within normal limits. Occasionally, there may be a collection of blood around the implant within the first 24 to 48 hours after the surgical procedure. If the amount is significant, it may be necessary to remove this by reopening the incision to control bleeding before replacing the implant in its original position.

Depending upon the site of incision, there may be some temporary loss of sensation to the nipple area. The degree of sensory loss is also variable. Usually there is some temporary loss of feeling in the inner breast skin.

Most women are naturally concerned about the size of the implants. Selection is based upon the patient’s general stature and chest size and the amount of breast tissue already present. Although some women prefer to have the largest implant, there may not be sufficient room to accommodate it without undue tension and some discomfort. Oversized implants may result in poor contour and the presence of irregular firmness just under the surface. At Medici, we spend as much time as you want sizing your implants. You are never pushed to make a decision and can bring a friend along to help you decide on the size you want.

The implant is not really "in" the breast – it is "under" the breast and lies on the muscle over the chest wall. After surgery a supportive dressing is applied, allowing you to return to daily activities within three to four days, avoiding strenuous exercise for two to three weeks. Additional instructions will be provided by your surgeon and should be followed closely.

About breast capsules

A capsule is the body’s natural response to the breast implant; it is a layer of thin scar tissue around the implant. This pocket of tissue usually remains and the breast maintains its soft feel. On occasion, tightness may develop to such a degree that the breast can become somewhat firm.

Exercises and massage are very important at this stage, and usually control the process. On rare occasions however, a breast may persistently stay firm, and in this instance surgical opening of the space may be required. This allows the breast to become soft again and maintain its supple quality.

The overall risk of any surgical procedure including anaesthesia must be considered by every patient. Omission of these details does not suggest that they are of lesser significance – these risks are always present even with minimal procedures.

That said, today’s methods of anaesthesia ensure there will be no pain during any operation and usually only moderate discomfort for a short time afterward.

All of the surgical procedures will be performed by your own trusted surgeon with the assistance of competent nurses and anaesthetists who will play an active role in keeping you comfortable.

About medications

Usually, you will be given antibiotics intravenously during your surgery. Pain control will be maintained as necessary, though there should be minimal discomfort. Although the breasts will swell a certain amount, a mild bruising in the area is often noted.

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Breast lift

Some women experience sagging and drooping of the breasts after child bearing, from weight loss, or as a result of premature aging. The skin and ligaments that support the breast begin to stretch, and the breast loses its youthful shape.

Breast lift or "mastopexy" involves moving the nipple and breast tissue to a higher position by removing excess skin from the lower part of the breast. As a result, scars will be around the nipple area and below the breast.

The procedure may be performed as day surgery, however an overnight stay is sometimes recommended.

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Breast reduction

Many women needlessly suffer back and shoulder pain associated with large, pendulous breasts. These women often suffer chronic irritation of the skin beneath the breasts and shoulder grooves from bra straps. Women with heavy breasts can be physically disabled, socially embarrassed and suffer mental anguish.

Breast reduction is usually overnight surgery and a Medicare rebate is available. Most patients return to normal activities within two to three weeks.

Pain is minimal following breast reduction surgery. Our patients are usually so happy once the weight is removed they hardly notice any discomfort.

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