Augmentation mammaplasty, also known as breast augmentation, is a procedure where the shape and size of a woman’s breasts are enhanced. Implants are placed behind each breast to increase the bust line, depending on how many cup sizes the patient wishes to increase.
Women often undergo this procedure because they: are unsatisfied with their current size and shape of their breasts; want to obtain a similar shape between the breasts after weight loss, pregnancy, or aging. The breasts often lose volume and shape after these factors occur, therefore, breast augmentation surgery allows patients to correct their breasts. Breast augmentation can improve self-confidence and have life-changing effects on someone who is dissatisfied with their current breast shape and size. If you are considering breast augmentation, Dr. Heddle will assist you in this process, along with answering any questions or concerns.

The Best Candidate

The best candidate for breast augmentation is one who exhibits the above mentioned conditions. In addition, women who have experienced significant weight loss and have, therefore, had a change in the size and shape of the breasts or who are unhappy with their small size of their breasts are also a good candidate for this procedure. At times, pregnancy can change your breasts as they become smaller and loose their firmness. If candidates fall into this category they may be future patients. Things to consider for this operation are: breasts must be fully developed; candidates must be emotionally mature and understand their reasons for the surgery.
The patient should be in good health and physical condition, stable psychological state, and have realistic expectations of the surgery. As with any cosmetic procedure, the surgery will help to improve the overall appearance of the problem area, but it may not live up to your preconceived ideal. The surgery cannot stop the natural aging process, but it can help to make you more self-confident and happy with the appearance of your breasts. Be sure to discuss your expectations with Dr. Heddle, as well as your support network, to insure your emotional satisfaction.

The Office Visit

During your initial consultation, Dr. Heddle will ask for your detailed medical history, including information that could cause complications during the surgery, such as, uncontrolled high blood pressure, blood-clotting problems, or the tendency to develop large scars. Be sure to tell Dr. Heddle if you smoke or are taking any drugs, medications, vitamins or herbal supplements. Also during this initial visit, Dr. Heddle will ask questions about your emotional and psychological outlook on the surgery. It is important to inform Dr. Heddle of any previous surgeries, any treatments you have received in the past, the results of mammograms you have had, and if there is a history of breast cancer in your family. You should also inform Dr. Heddle if you plan to become pregnant in the future as pregnancy could alter the results of your breast augmentation. It is important to remember, however, that breast implants have not been proven to affect your ability to breast feed.
Dr. Heddle will examine your breasts and consider factors, such as, the size and shape of your breasts, skin quality, and the projection of your nipples and size of the areolas (the pigmented skin around your nipples). While any type of surgery is a personal decision, help and advice is available to you, so do not hesitate to ask questions and express your concerns.

Preparing for the Surgery

Dr. Heddle will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for the surgery, including what you should/should not eat and drink, smoking and avoiding certain vitamins and medications prior to the procedure. It is very important to follow these guidelines in order to make the surgery go smoothly.
A mammogram may be recommended before and after surgery, as this will help detect changes in breast tissue. Following surgery, patients will be able continue to self-breast exams.
Breast augmentation surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, therefore, it is important to plan for someone who can drive you home afterwards and stay with you for a few days after surgery, if needed.
It is the goal of Dr. Heddle and his staff to make this experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Setting up a mini-recovery room in your home can be a helpful strategy ahead of the surgery. The recovery area may include: plenty of ice or cold compresses, clean towels, two to three medium-filled pillows for elevation, a thermometer, ointments or creams recommended by Dr. Heddle, magazines and books.

How the Surgery is Performed

Breast augmentation surgery takes between one to two hours. Local anesthesia and intravenous sedation are used, though general anesthesia may be an option in some circumstances.

	The method of the insertion and positioning of your implant will be decided upon by the recommendation of Dr. Heddle and your own personal concerns. The incision can be made in either the crease where the breast meets the chest, around the areola, or in the armpit.
	Dr. Heddle will then lift your breast tissue and skin and make a pocket either behind your breast tissue or underneath your chest wall muscle.

You may want to discuss with Dr. Heddle the available alternatives and which location is best for you.
After the surgery you will be taken to a recovery room where you will be monitored. A gauze bandage or surgical bra will be applied over your breasts to assist in the healing process. Patients usually return home after a few hours unless otherwise instructed by Dr. Heddle.

After the Surgery

It takes about a day or two before patients are moving around normally. Dressings placed on the patient will be removed within a few days, however, you may be advised to wear a support bra for some time following surgery. Dr. Heddle will inform you on how long after the surgery you will be able to shower. It is usually between seven to ten days after the procedure that the stitches will be removed. A burning sensation on or around your nipples is common and will eventually return to normal within one to two weeks.
Patients will most likely feel exhausted after the surgery. Most of the discomfort or pain can be controlled with medication prescribed by Dr. Heddle. Discolouration and swelling is common, but will disappear within a month. Bending, lifting and over arm activity is not recommended until several weeks or advised by Dr. Heddle.

The final result of the surgery will create fuller and more natural contours in the breasts.

Getting Back to Normal

Patients will be able to return to work and engage in non-strenuous work within the first week, depending on the intensity of your job. After several weeks, patients may resume more vigorous exercise. Since your breasts will be sore, you should avoid physical contact and stimulation between two to three weeks after surgery.
The results of breast augmentation vary from patient to patient. Implants may require removal depending on if the patient has gained a considerable amount of weight, or replacement, if a patient wishes to undergo surgery again to increase or decrease the size of the implant.

Breast augmentation often satisfies the patient by enhancing their self-esteem and increasing their self confidence. Breast augmentation can allow you to present the world with a more confident and refreshed self.