Breast Augmentation

Many women choose to undergo breast enhancement. In fact, it is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures in this country. If you are not happy with your breast size, breast augmentation can increase your fullness and give your body a better proportion. Women commonly have a enhanced self image and more confidence in their figure after breast augmentation.

BeforeAfter

Dr. Schwartz is an expert breast surgeon. He is a member of the Mentor Educational Council, and has traveled around the country and around the world to teach other surgeons, and to consult about the newest products and techniques. Patients come from across the country for his skill, artistry and experience. In addition, Dr. Schwartz has developed a national reputation for correction of previous breast surgery patients.

Your First Consultation

The most important visit with your plastic surgeon besides the surgery itself is your initial consultation. You will be able to discuss your goals, concerns and specific desires. You will discuss the specific details of your surgery including incision location, implant type, and implant position.

You should also be interviewing your prospective surgeon. You should feel your surgeon would care for you as if you were part of his own family. That your surgery was the most important, and that you are unique. It may never be truer that you get what you pay for. Do not shop for price alone.

Breast Implants

SILICONE- Today, most patients select silicone implants. They are FDA approved for patients over 22 years old, and for patients undergoing reconstruction. These are cohesive or “gummy bear” implant that feels more natural, has less chance of rippling, and rupture compared to saline implants.

SALINE- While saline implants have become less popular, they are still a good choice for certain patients. They are very helpful in patients with unusual anatomy such as breasts with short lower pole, and tuberous breast deformity.

Breast Augmentation Surgery

There are three main decisions that need to be made for each patient; incision location, implant pocket, and implant size and type. Dr. Schwartz and his staff will help you decide which is correct for your individual desires and anatomy.

INCISIONS – Breast implants can be placed through an incision in the lower half of the areola (nipple), at the bottom of the breast (inframammary crease – IMF), or under the arm (axillary). Each patient has different reasons for choosing one incision or another. Dr. Schwartz will discuss the issues of incision choice, breast feeding, and sexual nipple sensation with you. You will be able to make your own wishes clear and pick the most comfortable incision that will work for you. Many patients require breast lift after weight loss or having children and this can safely be combined with breast augmentation.

IMPLANT LOCATION– Breast Implants can be placed either over or under the pectoral muscle, or only partially behind the muscle (dual plane). Each patient requires an individual approach to obtain the best result.

IMPLANT TYPE– In the United States, there are two implant manufacturers. Dr. Schwartz uses both Mentor and Allergan (Natrelle) implants. Implants can be smooth, have a textured surface, can be silicone or saline, and come in many different shapes. At your consultation and subsequent visits, Dr. Schwartz will explain his recommendations for your specific goals.

SURGERY LOCATION – Your surgery can be performed at our new AAAASF accredited Westlake Cosmetic Surgery Center facility. This state of the art surgical center provides the highest standard of care, safety and privacy. Dr. Schwartz also has privileges to perform procedures at Los Robles Regional Medical center, Thousand Oaks Surgical Hospital, and both St. Johns Regional Medical center, and Pleasant Valley Hospitals.

ANESTHESIA – Breast augmentation is performed with general anesthesia. Dr. Schwartz only works with Board Certified Physician (M.D.) anesthesiologists who are always present for your entire procedure.

BREAST AUGMENTATION RECOVERY – Breast augmentation usually requires 1-2 hours of surgery as an outpatient. You will be seen the first or second day after surgery, and can usually shower at that time. Many patients will only require Motrin or Advil for pain control, but stronger medications are available if needed.

Patients can usually drive to their one week appointment to remove sutures, and return to work at that time or even sooner.

Exercise can resume at three weeks after surgery without restrictions in most patients.

Breast Augmentation Risks

While every procedure has risks, it is Dr. Schwartz goal to minimize every possibility of this during your care. You will receive extensive consultation regarding your surgery and any risks during your consultation and pre-op appointments.