Breast Augmentation is a surgical procedure to enlarge small breasts, underdeveloped breasts, or breasts that have lost their fullness after pregnancy. The problem of underdeveloped breasts may have significant personal, psychological and social impacts. Once the breasts have been enlarged, you may enjoy the benefits of a balanced figure, thus facilitating the fitting of blouses, bathing suits and other attire.

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The procedure is performed by either making an incision around the nipple, in the armpit, or directly under the breast. A pocket is created either directly under the breast tissue or under the breast and the pectoralis muscle. The type of incision and the type of pocket created are decided between you and your surgeon. The saline (salt water) filled implant is then placed in the pocket to achieve the desired result.

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The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis either in the office or at any of the Richmond area hospitals. The operation can be done under either local anesthesia with deep sedation or general anesthesia. Surgical time is usually less than 1 hour.

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After the operation, you will wear a soft bra for support. Swelling and discoloration may occur but will quickly disappear. Stitches are placed under the skin and are dissolvable. Thus, there are no stitches to be removed. Activities may be restricted for the first few days. One can usually return to work in a week. Strenuous activity is limited for four weeks.

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Rarely, one may experience complications after surgery. The most common risk is the formation of a capsular contracture. This is scar tissue which can tighten around the implant. This can range from being imperceptible to increased firmness in the breast. This condition can be corrected by cutting the scar capsule, which will soften the breast. Other risks include bleeding, infection, changes in nipple sensation, implant rupture or malposition. The majority of females can breast-feed after augmentation surgery. There is no evidence that breast implants increase the risk of breast cancer or any other condition.