Augmentation Mammoplasty is a surgical technique aimed at improving the volume and shape of the female breast through the placement of breast implants. This surgical procedure is recommended for women whose breast size does not correspond to what is desired, who have breast asymmetries or who intend to recover the breast volume lost through breastfeeding, weight loss or aging. In this sense, each case is thoroughly evaluated to define a surgical plan adjusted to each patient in order to achieve the desired results.
At Clínica Baptista Fernandes, before the breast augmentation surgical procedure, there is a fundamental preparation and planning process to define the surgical plan. This process is divided into 4 steps and they are:
1 – Assessment consultation
The first step consists of a consultation during which Dr. João Baptista Fernandes or Dr. Fátima Baptista Fernandes will gather all the patient’s information to understand her motivation and goals. In addition, measurements and photographs are taken to define the surgical plan.
2 – Choice of prostheses
There are several types of breast implants and to define which will be the most suitable for each case, it is necessary to take into account at least four elements: size, weight, shape and type of coating. These elements will directly influence the results of the breast augmentation and, therefore, taking into account the patient’s wishes, the doctor will advise which type of prosthesis is most suitable.
Size: Breast implants can range from 100 to 1000 cc. Therefore, advice from the doctor on the ideal size is essential to obtain the desired results.
Weight: Depending on the size, the weight of the implant will vary. However, there are conventional prostheses and B-lite prostheses. B-lite prostheses are 30% lighter and, in some cases, are more recommended, especially when the patient wants greater projection.
Format: Breast implants can be round, anatomical or conical. Each format promotes a different end result. For example, when the objective is a more natural result, as a rule, anatomical prostheses are used. For those who want more projection of the breast in the upper part (of the neckline), round prostheses are usually used. However, each case must be evaluated individually for the right choice of format.
Type of coating: There are several types of coating for implants. There are implants with a smooth surface, textured, microtextured and with polyurethane coating and the choice will depend on what the doctor thinks is most advisable.
3 – 3D Simulation
The third step involves the 3D simulation of the intended results. After all the information gathered, a 3D simulation is performed using the Crisalix software. In this simulation, the patient will receive at least three demonstrations of results with different types of prostheses. From these simulations, the patient will be able to choose the option she wants.
4 – Exams and doubts
The last step is to carry out tests to find out if you are fit to perform the surgery. After that, you can make a new appointment to present the test results and to clarify questions you may have regarding the procedure. From there, it proceeds to surgery.
Breast augmentation surgery is a relatively simple and quick procedure. The surgical technique consists of making a small incision that can be made inframammary, that is, under the breast, or periareolar, that is, around the nipple. The choice of incision will depend on the size of the nipple and the patient’s preference. After the incision, the breast implants can be placed under the breast gland or under the pectoral muscle fascia. The surgeon decides where it will be most convenient to place the implants, taking into account the anatomy and volume of the existing breast. Afterwards, drains* are placed, which will remain in place for around 24 hours, the incision is sutured and a compressive bra is placed.
* The review of hemostasis, that is, of the bleeding areas, is so careful that, in most cases, it is possible to dispense with drains.
Breast augmentation takes between 1 to 2 hours and is performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia or sedation. This surgery does not require hospitalization, just outpatient observation that lasts about 8 hours and during which analgesia and ice will be applied. After this period, the patient is discharged.
The patient leaves the clinic with a compressive bra and, in some cases, with drains, depending on the type of surgery performed and the personal characteristics of each patient. The next day, he returns to the clinic for the first drainage and to remove the drains, if he has them. Drainage will take place approximately three times a week. You will have to wear the compression bra day and night for a month.
As a rule, the stitches (which are only internal) are removed after a week. At that time, you will be advised to start the following post-operative care: moisturize the breast skin well, apply healing cream and silicone or polyurethane tapes to the scar for some time after the surgery. Also, during the first month you should not do violent exercises, lift your arms or lift weights. The return to work activity normally occurs after 10 days, but this period depends on the type of work you do.
At Clínica Baptista Fernandes, all drainage sessions are included in the cost of the surgery, as the recovery process is essential for the success of the Augmentation Mammoplasty. That’s why we have a team of therapists specially trained to carry out the drainage and, if necessary, ultrasound sessions and LED light therapy for a quick and healthy recovery. In addition, each patient receives direct contact from the doctor who performed the surgery so that they can contact him to clarify any doubts.