Is Breast Augmentation for You?
Here’s what you should know about getting board-certified Colorado Springs breast augmentation surgery:
Breast augmentation, or augmentation mammaplasty, is a procedure to reshape the breast in order to make it larger. The procedure can also be performed to reconstruct the breast following breast surgery.
Mayo Clinic-trained and board-certified Colorado Springs plastic surgeon, Gregory J. Liebscher, MD, FACS, offers various procedures for women who want to enhance the appearance and integrity of their breasts with augmentation or reconstruction. The procedures are very safe with durable results. Dr. Liebscher consults with you one-on-one and pays close attention to what results you want to see … natural, comfortable and esthetically pleasing.
VIDEO: Breast Augmentation
In this video, Dr. Greg Liebscher explains breast augmentation and the associated risks and likely outcomes:
What is a Breast Implant?
A breast implant is a silicone shell filled with either silicone gel or saline:
- saline-filled implants—if a saline-filled implant breaks, the implant will deflate in a few hours and the salt water will harmlessly be absorbed by the body.
- gel-filled implants—the leak or rupture of a gel-filled implant can cause one of two things: if the shell breaks but the scar capsule around the implant does not, changes may not be detected; if the scar also breaks or tears, especially following extreme pressure, the silicone gel implant may move into surrounding tissue. The gel may collect in the breast and cause a new scar to form around it, or it may migrate to another area of the body. The shape or firmness of the breast may change. A second operation and replacement of the leaking implant may be necessary.Implants are envelopes filled with liquid that are implanted into the breast tissue, and are used to form the shape of the breast. Implants may be filled with saline or silicone gel. Each type of implant has advantages and disadvantages. Your physician will discuss the types of implants with you and seek your input about the type of implant to be used.Although there have been questions raised about the safety of silicone gel implants, the Institute of Medicine published a report in 2000 that refuted most of the claims about silicone implant hazards. After four years of extensive studies, the FDA announced in late 2006 that it had approved silicone gel-filled implants for breast augmentation for women ages 22 and older and for breast reconstruction for women of all ages.The two manufacturers of the implants are required to conduct a large post-approval study following 40,000 women for a 10-year period after receiving implants.
There is no evidence that fertility, pregnancy, or the ability to nurse will be affected by breast implants. However, if you have nursed a baby within the year before breast augmentation, you may produce milk for a few days after surgery. This may cause some discomfort, but can be treated with medication prescribed by your physician.
Breast Augmentation Procedure Details
(Augmentation Mammaplasty)
Procedure:
Enhance the size of breasts using inflatable implants filled with saline.
Length:
1 to 2 hours.
Anesthesia:
General.
In/Outpatient:
Usually outpatient.
Side Effects:
Temporary soreness, swelling, change in nipple sensation, bruising. Breast sensitive to stimulation for a few weeks.
Risks:
Lack of implant permanence — surgical removal or replacement of the implants may be required to treat problems, including: deflation; the formation of scar tissue around the implant (capsular contracture), which may cause the breast to feel tight or hard; bleeding or infection. Increase or decrease in sensitivity of nipples or breast skin, occasionally permanent. Mammography requires a special technique. (Note: Some women have reported symptoms similar to those of immune disorders. Ask your doctor about these and other FDA concerns.)
Recovery:
Back to work: a few days. Physical contact with breasts: 3 to 4 weeks. Fading of scars: several months to a year or more.
Duration of Results:
Variable. Implants may require removal or replacement.
Breast Implant Safety
BreastImplantSafety.Org offers unbiased, science-based information on breast implant options. The site is written by some of the nation’s leading plastic surgeons with a purpose to inform, empower, and provide complete implant safety information to help you choose the right physician.
» More about: BreastImplantSafety.org
Understanding Your Risks
Important: You should understand that the circumstances and experience of every individual will be unique. If you’re considering cosmetic plastic surgery, you’re welcome to consult with Dr. Liebscher for further information about the particular procedure and what you expect. In addition, please note that all surgery carries some uncertainty and risk, including the possibility of infection, bleeding, blood clots, and adverse reactions to the anesthesia. You can obviously reduce your risks by choosing a qualified plastic surgeon, such as Dr. Gregory Liebscher, and closely follow his or her advice, both before and after surgery.
Insurance
Acceptable payment for procedures and consultations includes cash, major credit card, and most insurances (BCBS, Aetna, Cigna, Cofinity, Great West, Humana/Choice Care, Kaiser, Medical Network, Tricare, RMHP, United Health Care). Financing is also available.
About Dr. Greg Liebscher
Gregory J. Liebscher, MD, FACS, is a Mayo Clinic-trained, ASPS Member Surgeon, & ABPS board-certified Colorado Springs plastic surgeon. Learn more about Dr. Liebscher and his credentials:
» Colorado Springs Plastic Surgeon, Greg Liebscher, MD, FACS
Schedule a Consultation
To schedule a consultation, call:
719-634-2503
Please note: Consultations are covered by most insurances and may require a physician’s referral. In some cases, consultations are provided free of charge. Please contact your insurance company for coverage details.
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