YOUR GUIDE TO

BREAST AUGMENTATION

WHAT IS A BREAST AUGMENTATION? 3

THE PROCEDURE 4

Stage 1 –Anaesthesia

Stage 2 – The incision

Stage 3 – Placement of the breast implant

Stage 4 – Closing the incisions

Stage 5 – Results

Types of implants

IS BREAST AUGMENTATION RIGHT FOR ME? 6

POTENTIAL RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS 7

RECOVERY 8

DR JUSTIN PERRON 9

WHAT IS A BREAST AUGMENTATION?

Breast augmentation surgery is a procedure that increases the size and improves the shape of a breast. Breast augmentation surgery can be chosen for a number of reasons and has several benefits, including:

• Enhancing current breast size

• Improving breast shape after pregnancy

• Providing balance to your current body shape

• Increasing the projection of your breasts

Although generally women choose to undergo breast augmentation purely for aesthetic reasons, there are a number of functional benefits which should be considered. A breast augmentation may be used to correct deformities and can be a reconstructive option for women who have experienced breast cancer and undergone a mastectomy.

3 DR JUSTIN PERRON YOUR GUIDE TO BREAST AUGMENTATION

THE PROCEDURE

Breast augmentation surgery can vary depending on the operating surgeon; however, it can generally be completed in approximately five stages.

Stage 1 –Anaesthesia

Breast augmentation surgery is performed under a general anaesthetic. Your surgeon will often provide support during this stage to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the procedure.

Stage 2 – The incision

The implant incision can be performed three different ways:

• Peri-areolar (incision around the nipple)

• Trans-axillary (through the armpit)

• Inframammary fold (in the breast crease)

Each approach will offer different benefits and drawbacks. Your surgeon will often have their own preferred approach; however, the choice of incision will depend on the type of implant, patient preference, and the degree of enlargement desired. The most common approach is infra-mammary, or in the breast crease, and is Dr Justin Perron’s preferred approach.

Stage 3 – Placement of the breast implant

A breast implant is most commonly behind the chest muscle (pectoralis major, ‘pec’ muscle). Generally, part of the implant is behind the muscle and part is behind the breast tissue (dual plane). Sometimes the implant can also be placed directly behind the breast tissue, over the pectoral muscle (submammary/subglandular placement).

Once again, the placement of the implant may vary depending on a variety of circumstances, such as the individual’s anatomy, type of implant, and size of the implant.

PERI-AREOLAR

TRANS-AXILLARY

INFRAMAMMARY FOLD

4 DR JUSTIN PERRON YOUR GUIDE TO BREAST AUGMENTATION

Stage 4 – Closing the incisions

As with most other surgical procedures, the incisions are closed with layered sutures in the breast tissue and with sutures, skin adhesive or surgical tape.

The quality and appearance of the scar will depend on a number of factors, such as your genetics, exposure to infection, returning to vigorous exercise too soon, and the size of the incision.

Stage 5 – Results

The results of a breast augmentation are visible immediately after surgery. The procedure takes approximately 60-90 minutes and recovery can vary depending on the individual. You will generally start to feel ‘back to normal’ about 1-2 weeks following your surgery. For optimal results, heavy lifting and gym work should be avoided for 2-3 months depending on the type of implant.

Breast swelling is normal and can occur for several months following a breast augmentation.

Types of implants

There are many types of implants, and the current generation uses a silicone polymer (cohesive gel) surrounded by a silicone shell. Older style implants used a liquid style silicone that is no longer used. Current implants have different coatings, textures, shapes and sizes. Certain types are better for certain patients, and its best to discuss your options and expectations with Dr Perron.

5 DR JUSTIN PERRON YOUR GUIDE TO BREAST AUGMENTATION

IS BREAST AUGMENTATION RIGHT FOR ME?

Suitability for breast augmentation surgery is dependent on a number of variables. These include:

Physical health – As with any other surgical procedure, one of the most important factors affecting suitability for breast augmentation surgery is physical health. A good physical health record is essential unless there is an overriding medical need to have enhancements.

Age – Although it has been known to happen under certain circumstances, most surgeons will not operate on patients unless they are well over the age of 18 and the surgeon can be sure the breasts have reached full maturity.

Pregnancy – Generally, pregnant women will be refused. Elective surgery during pregnancy can bring an unnecessary risk for both mother and baby.

Mastectomy – Women who have had an operation to remove breast tissue as a result of breast cancer will have the option of reconstructive surgery. This can include a breast augmentation to retain original breast size.

Each patient has different anatomy and specific expectations. Not everyone is a good candidate for breast augmentation surgery. Discuss your particular circumstances with Dr Perron before deciding what is best for you.

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POTENTIAL RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS

As with any surgical procedure, a breast augmentation carries the following risks:

• Bleeding

• Infection

• Pain

• Scarring

• Blood clots

Specific risks associated with a breast augmentation include:

• Capsular contracture

• Asymmetry

• Collection of fluid around the implant

• Change of sensation to the breast and nipple

• Sore shoulders

• Implant rupture

7 DR JUSTIN PERRON YOUR GUIDE TO BREAST AUGMENTATION

RECOVERY

Recovery time and effectiveness can vary depending on the individual; however, consider the following as a guide for typical recovery.

1-2 days – You will need full-time assistance in this period and should focus on resting. You experience most of your pain and discomfort during this time.

1 week – Although you will be able to retain some function and general activity, such as showering, you will still be experiencing pain and swelling. Bruising will be stable and swelling may start to move down the body.

1-2 weeks – It is okay to start low-impact exercise and you can begin to resume non-physical daily activities. During this period you can generally return to work, depending upon your job.

2-6 weeks – High impact exercise and heavy lifting are not advised during this period. A good operation can be undone by a bad recovery which is why patience should be highlighted. You will generally feel ‘back to normal’ during this time.

6-12 weeks – Breast swelling may still be present; however you should be able to return to your regular lifestyle during this period.

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DR JUSTIN PERRON

Dr Justin Perron is a Canadian born, Australian-trained Plastic and Reconstructive and Cosmetic Surgeon. He studied Chemistry and Biochemistry in Calgary Canada at the University of Calgary before moving to Australia to pursue his medical training in 2000.

Dr Perron has spent many years of study and training before completing his Australian Fellowship in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery with The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS). He has worked throughout Queensland, from Townsville to Brisbane, Redcliffe, Caboolture, and Gold Coast. His plastic and reconstructive surgery training has taken him from the South East of Queensland to Perth in Western Australia. Dr Perron presents at surgical conferences and has published articles in a number of journals. He keeps up to date with the latest trends in plastic surgery and maintains current knowledge in this broad and diverse field.

Dr Perron understands the decision to undergo breast augmentation can be a difficult one. Patients are encouraged to research the procedure thoroughly themselves before booking a consultation. Dr Perron will advise you on his recommended plan of action and ensure that you are provided with the necessary knowledge to make an informed decision about whether breast augmentation surgery is right for you.

To make an appointment with Dr Perron, visit drjustinperron.com.au or contact us today on 07 3861 8800!

9 DR JUSTIN PERRON YOUR GUIDE TO BREAST AUGMENTATION

CONTACT US

07 3861 8800

drjustinperron.com.au

info@herstellen.com

490 Boundary Street, Spring Hill, Brisbane