Cosmetic Surgery for the Breast
Cosmetic surgery is usually performed to correct a physical abnormality or to enhance an otherwise normal physical feature and, therefore, improve a person’s appearance.
I offer the following procedures for the breast:
Implant breast augmentation is a surgical procedure to increase the size and/or improve the shape of the breasts. It can also balance any differences in size between the breasts.
Whilst the vast majority of patients would not want to part with their breast implants, there are various reasons why some want them removed and not replaced. These include capsular contracture, dissatisfaction with the size or appearance of the breasts, rupture or fears that implants are causing health problems. Sometimes when patients get older they feel that they no longer wish implants and the potential maintenance they may require in the future.
If the implants are not replaced, this surgery is often combined with a breast lift (mastopexy) and/or fat transfer because the breasts are likely to be saggy or deflated after removal.
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A breast reduction is an operation designed to make large breasts smaller, perter and more in proportion with the rest of your body. The operation can also be performed to make each breast a similar size if one side is much larger than the other or asymmetrical. A mastopexy is a similar operation but maintains breast volume, so that there is no reduction in size.
A capsulectomy is the removal of the scar tissue (capsule) that forms around an implant. A capsule is an entirely normal response to any foreign body. However, in some instances, the scar (capsule) around the implant may thicken and contract (capsular contracture). As a result, the breasts may feel much harder. With worsening capsular contracture, the shape may become significantly distorted and the breast can become painful or uncomfortable. Performing a capsulectomy and replacement of the breast implants should alleviate the discomfort and improve the appearance and feel of the breasts.
Fat transfer (fat grafting or lipofilling) to breasts is a dynamic procedure which has gained immense popularity for augmenting various parts of the body. The technique involves aspirating fat through special small diameter cannulae. The fat is then treated to remove oil and excess water. This leaves concentrated fat cells which are gently re-injected to fill out the desired area.
Inverted nipples usually develop during puberty and are the result of short milk ducts. Occasionally they can occur after puberty and if this is the case it is important to ensure that you have seen your GP to ensure there is no underlying problem. They can cause considerable distress and embarrassment, as well as making hygiene and breast feeding difficult.
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Gynaecomastia is an enlargement of the male breast as a result of an abnormal increase in the glandular tissue and/or fat. It is quite common, affecting an estimated 40% to 60% of men in varying degrees. For men who feel self-conscious about their appearance, surgery to reduce the breast can improve personal confidence and self-esteem.
