Breast augmentation currently ranks as the number procedure performed by a cosmetic surgeon in the US. The procedure can be fairly customized to suit the unique needs of a patient. While different options may be available for incision locations, implant placement and types of implants, the overall steps in the breast augmentation procedure largely remain the same.
At the time of initial consultation, the surgeon will discuss the steps involved in the procedure to make the patient more familiar with the surgery. This will help to resolve her pre-op anxiety and concern. Double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon Dr. Landon McLain provides breast augmentation to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding communities.
Anesthesia
The first step in the breast augmentation surgery will be to place the patient under anesthesia. In case of general anesthesia, an anesthesiologist or an anesthetist nurse will administer it and will remain present throughout the surgery to monitor her response. Once the surgery is over, she will be brought out of anesthesia.
The patient will be moved to an observation area for a few hours until the effects of anesthesia subside. The patient should have someone to drive her back home after the surgery, and preferably stay overnight for help.
Incisions Placement
Following anesthesia, the cosmetic surgeon will start the procedure by making incisions in discreet locations. These could be at the crease of the breast, in the underarm, around the lower half of the areola, or in some cases, in the navel area. The incision location will be decided during surgical planning in consultation with the patient.
Implant Placement
Through the incisions, the surgeon will place the breast implants in front of the pectoral muscle right behind the breast tissue or below the pectoral muscle. The decision on implant placement will be made in advance after considering the implant size, the patient’s breast anatomy and her aesthetic goals.
The surgeon will explain the limitations and benefits of both options to help the patient make the best choice. Double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon Dr. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for breast augmentation.
Incision Closure
Once the surgery is completed and the implants are positioned correctly into the breast pockets, the incisions will be closed with absorbable or removable sutures. Until the incisions are healed, the patient should take special care to keep the site completely clean in order to minimize infection risks. Strain in the incision area should be minimal during the first week after the surgery.
Bandages and Drains
Once the surgery is completed, the treated areas will be covered in bandages to protect the incisions and support healing. Temporary drain tubes will be placed below the skin to collect fluid and reduce infection risks. The patient will be provided with a special surgical bra, which should be worn at all times for a few weeks until the breasts firm up and acquire their new shape.
McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here. Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.
