Breast Augmentation by Prosthesis and Breast Implant

General Description of Breast Augmentation Using Breast Prosthesis:

Breast augmentation by breast prosthesis, or breast implant, is a cosmetic surgery procedure aimed at increasing the volume of the breasts by inserting implants under the breast tissue or pectoral muscles. This procedure allows the size, shape and appearance of the breasts to be changed according to the patient’s wishes. Implants can be filled with saline or silicone gel, and are available in different shapes and textures to achieve a natural and harmonious result.

Breast hypoplasia, or breast hypotrophy, is characterized by insufficient development of the volume of the breasts in relation to the woman's morphology. This may be due to incomplete development of the mammary gland during puberty or loss of glandular volume after pregnancy, weight loss or hormonal fluctuations.

For some women, this hypotrophy can be felt as an attack on their femininity, leading to discomfort and a loss of self-confidence, and sometimes becoming a real complex.

Breast augmentation with prosthesis offers personalized breast volume and shape, with natural and long-lasting results, improving appearance and self-confidence.

  1. Filling:

    • Silicone prostheses : Filled with silicone gel, they offer a more natural look and feel.
    • Saline prostheses: Filled with saline (sterile salt water), they can be adjusted in size after insertion.
  2. Shape :

    • Round prostheses: Give a fuller and more voluminous appearance to the top of the breast.
    • Anatomical prostheses: In the shape of a drop of water, they imitate the natural shape of the breast.
  3. Surface :

    • Textured prostheses: Have a rough surface which may reduce the risk of displacement and capsular contracture.
    • Smooth prostheses: Have a soft surface and can move more freely in the breast pocket for a more natural appearance.

Each type of prosthesis has specific characteristics that can influence the final result and patient preference. The choice of prosthesis depends on the desired aesthetic goals, the surgeon's recommendations and medical considerations.

The final result of breast augmentation is fully appreciated from three months after the procedure. However, the physical and psychological benefits are felt from the first days following the operation.

The stages of breast augmentation procedures by prosthesis

For any breast operation, two preoperative consultations with a plastic surgeon are necessary, as well as a consultation with an anesthesiologist. Photos before and after prosthetic breast augmentation are taken. A mammogram and/or ultrasound is performed. A support bra without underwire and opening at the front is prescribed.

Preoperative instructions for breast surgery include:

  • Stop smoking at least 1 month before and up to 1 month after the procedure to reduce the risk of necrosis and complications.
  • Stopping all anticoagulant or antiplatelet treatment 15 days before the operation.

The operation for breast prostheses generally takes place as follows:

  1. Anesthesia:  Administration of general anesthesia.
  2. Incision : Making an incision in a discreet area (under the breast, around the areola or in the armpit).
  3. Placement of prostheses: Insertion of implants either under the pectoral muscle or under the mammary gland.
  4. Closure of incisions: Suturing incisions and applying dressings.
  5. Recovery : Monitoring in the recovery room then returning home the same day or the next day.

Post-operative instructions are then provided to ensure good recovery.

  1. Réveil et Surveillance :

    • Surveillance immédiate en salle de réveil pour vérifier les signes vitaux et la réaction à l'anesthésie.
    • Retour à domicile le jour même ou le lendemain, selon les cas.
  2. Gestion de la Douleur :

    • Prescription d'analgésiques pour gérer la douleur.
    • Utilisation d'un soutien-gorge de contention sans armature pour maintenir les seins en place.
  3. Soins des Incisions :

    • Maintien des pansements propres et secs.
    • Application de pommades antibiotiques si prescrit.
  4. Activités Physiques :

    • Repos complet pendant les premiers jours.
    • Éviter les activités physiques intenses et les levées de bras pendant au moins 4 à 6 semaines.
  5. Suivi Médical :

    • Rendez-vous post-opératoires réguliers pour surveiller la guérison.
    • Retrait des points de suture si nécessaire.
  6. Évolution et Résultats :

    • Œdème et ecchymoses peuvent persister quelques semaines.
    • Les résultats définitifs sont généralement visibles après quelques mois, une fois le gonflement résorbé.
  7. Recommandations Spécifiques :

    • Arrêt du tabac pour favoriser la cicatrisation.
    • Surveillance de toute complication possible comme une infection ou une réaction à l'implant.

Respecter les consignes post-opératoires est crucial pour une guérison optimale et des résultats satisfaisants.

In practice

  • Procedure

    Increase in breast volume by placing breast prostheses behind the mammary gland either in front of or behind the pectoral muscle.

  • Anesthesia

    General

  • Operating time

    1 hour.

  • Length of hospitalization

    2 nights.

  • Length of overall stay

    7 days

  • Convalescence

    7 to 10 days