Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure in which implants are placed to enhance the size and shape of a woman’s breasts. Women who have always had small volume breasts as well as women who have loss of volume secondary to weight loss, or nursing, are candidates for breast augmentation. For patients that have significant breast asymmetry, augmentation can often help to create more equal volume breasts. If the patient has ptosis or sagging of the breasts, a mastopexy/breast lift may be needed alone or in conjunction with the augmentation mammoplasty.

Dr. Aya-ay was honored to be one of the few physicians acting as a primary investigator on the Mentor® CPG clinical trials for the cohesive gel “Gummy Bear” implants allowing Dr. Aya-ay the access for the use of these implants before they were made readily available to the majority of plastic surgeons. These 5th generation implants have now gained FDA approval in the United States.

Dr. Aya-ay performs breast augmentation utilizing the full complement of breast implants from Allergan® and Mentor. These include 4th generation silicone gel, 5th generation cohesive gel, and saline as well as both round and anatomic (“tear drop”) implants. Therefore, the patient’s surgical procedure is tailored specifically to their desires and needs.

The Procedure

Breast augmentation involves the insertion of a saline or silicone implant into the breast via a small incision in the inframammary fold, underarm, or around the areola. A pocket is created either under the breast tissue or beneath the pectoralis muscle. Measurements, intraoperative sizers, and the patient’s desires are used to help determine which implant volume is the most appropriate for the patient. The surgery is performed in a hospital or outpatient surgical facility under general anesthesia. The patient is able to go home the day of surgery.

The Recovery

During the recovery period, the patient will have activity limitations in order to decrease the risk of postoperative complications. The patient will have a dressing in place, and in most cases, a surgical bra. Postoperative medications include an antibiotic, pain medication, and often a muscle relaxant and anti-nausea medication to be used as needed. Dr. Aya-ay and her staff will review the postoperative instructions with you at your consultation, and again, at your preoperative visit to assure that you are comfortable with your postoperative care.