INTRODUCTION
Dr. Harris believes that the patient needs to verbalize her goals during the breast augmentation consult so that the final decisions of the implant selection will please the patient not only immediately but also in the future. The primary decisions that patients may contribute to  include: saline vs silicone, size, and incision site.

A woman’s breasts help define her femininity, and with the vast differences in shape, size, and appearance, breasts further help to define her individualism. Therefore, changes to the breasts can be dissatisfying and make women feel as if they are losing some of their femininity and youthful vitality. Like other areas of the body, the breasts undergo changes in response to factors such as genetics, the aging process, pregnancy and breast feeding, weight gain or loss, and hormonal fluctuations. Breasts that were once firm and shapely often begin to sag and droop giving them a loose or heavy appearance. A breast lift, or mastopexy, can help restore a firmer, shapelier breast, which will improve body contours and give the breasts a perky, youthful appearance

BREAST SURGERY SIZE

One of the most important decisions of breast augmentation surgery is the size of the implant. Dr. Harris encourages each patient to describe her goals and expectations of the surgery. After this information is given, the patient then tries on various sizers which give additional suggestion as to the patient’s desired size. After breast and chest measurements are taken during the examination, the patient’s implant size is chosen. The patient is shown what implants sizes are available and the final decision is made according to the patient’s goals. Dr. Harris’ patients can rest comfortably the night before knowing the size of the implant will be the size that was chosen in the office prior to surgery.

BREAST SURGERY INCISIONS

Most patients are given a choice of incisions as well. The primary incisions are under the arm (endoscopic axillary), lower nipple, or inframammary crease. Some patient might require a mastopexy or a breast lift and this incision resembles a ‘lollipop’ circumferentially around the nipple and extending down vertically at the base of the nipple towards the inframammary crease. This incision is used primarily on breasts that demonstrate extreme sagging and downward positioning of the nipple. The benefits and trade-offs of each of the incisions; axillary, inframammary, or nipple, are described to each patient and the patient is allowed to make the decision herself as to her preferred incision if she is a candidate for this procedure.

SALINE VERSUS SILICONE FOR BREAST SURGERY

The saline versus silicone decision will also be discussed with each patient. The long term follow-ups, post-operative appearance differences, and current medical information is provided to the patient in detail.

ANESTHESIA AND SURGERY CENTER FOR BREAST SURGERY

The anesthesia used for breast augmentation is general endotracheal anesthesia and this is provided by a board certified doctor of anesthesia in a certified outpatient surgery center.

PHYSICAL LIMITATIONS AFTER BREAST SURGERY

Patients usually are off work for one week although this might vary depending on the physical job description. For instance, mothers might have difficulty with picking up toddlers or young children during the early weeks of surgery depending on the child’s weight. Waitresses and hairdressers also may require longer time for recovery due to the physical nature of their jobs. Patients who have desk jobs usually are able to return to work after a week.

BREAST FEEDING AFTER BREAST SURGERY

Most women are still able to breast feed after the surgery because the milk ducts are left unharmed during the procedure. There is no guarantee that women can breast feed after the surgery as some women find it difficult even without any breast surgery history.

HEALING AFTER BREAST SURGERY

Most women are able to resume all physical activities by 6 weeks. At this time, the breast has had time to heal and the implants have begun to settle. Early in the post-operative course, the implants are somewhat high and tight and it normally takes 6 to 8 weeks for the breasts to soften and the implant to take on the anticipated shape.

ACTIVITY AFTER BREAST SURGERY

Early strenuous activity is not encouraged because it may lead to increased scarring or bleeding. Patients are usually seen one week, one month and three months after surgery and precise massage technique, exercise limitations and use of supportive garments are described to the patient at that time. Always, if a patient has any concerns, she is to notify the office and Dr. Harris will see her. 

Cosmetic Breast Surgery Procedures Include:
Breast Enlargement - Breast Augmentation or Breast Implants - Breast Reduction - Breast Lift - Breast Reconstruction - Male Breast Reduction - Breast Cancer Consultations  

Please contact the Center for Cosmetic Surgery today for more information on breast reconstruction.

Center For Cosmetic Surgery
Dr. Elizabeth S. Harris
540 N. Madison Oak Suite 400
San Antonio, TX 78258
Phone 210.545.4848 / Fax 210.545.5565
email us