Augmentation mammoplasty

Augmentation mammoplasty is a surgical procedure that aims to increase the size, shape, or fullness of the breast. This procedure involves the placement of breast implants or fat transfer under the breast tissue or chest muscles.

History

The first augmentation mammoplasty procedure was performed in 1895 by Vincenz Czerny, who used a patient's own adipose tissue to repair a defect in her breast. The modern era of augmentation mammoplasty began in the 1960s with the development of the first silicone breast implants by Thomas Cronin and Frank Gerow.

Procedure

Augmentation mammoplasty can be performed through various surgical techniques. The most common method involves making an incision in the crease under the breast (inframammary), around the areola (periareolar), in the armpit (transaxillary), or in the navel (transumbilical). The choice of incision depends on the patient's anatomy, the type of implant, and surgeon-patient preference.

The breast implant can be placed either directly behind the breast tissue (subglandular placement) or behind the pectoral muscle (submuscular placement). The placement of the implant depends on the amount of breast tissue, the patient's preference, and the surgeon's recommendation.

Types of Implants

There are two main types of breast implants used in augmentation mammoplasty: silicone and saline. Silicone implants are filled with silicone gel, while saline implants are filled with sterile salt water. Both types of implants have an outer shell made of silicone.

Risks and Complications

Like any surgical procedure, augmentation mammoplasty carries risks, including infection, changes in nipple or breast sensation, and complications related to the anesthesia. Specific complications related to the implants include capsular contracture, implant leakage or rupture, and the need for additional surgeries.

See Also

• Breast reconstruction
• Breast reduction
• Mastopexy