Breast augmentation, also known as mammoplasty, is a surgical enhancemnet procedure to accentuate the size and shape of a woman's breasts.  Breast augmentation is an out patient procedure and is performed under general anesthesia at the West Health Surgery Center in Plymouth, Minnesota. As a participant in the Inamed Adjunct Clinical Study, we also offer silicone implants in qualified candidates. We offer complimentary cosmetic consultations in our Fridley and Plymouth locations. 

Breast augmentation is tremendous help to patients who desire larger, fuller breasts, who have lost breast volume due to pregnancy or nursing, or who have undergone breast reconstruction and want to gain a more natural look again.

Reasons for Considering Breast Augmentation:

• Enhance body shape if breasts are too small.
• Increase breast volume after pregnancy and nursing.
• Create symmetry in breasts.
• Reconstruct breasts following a mastectomy or injury.

General Procedure

Breast augmentation involves making a small incision to insert a breast implant into the breast area in order to enlarge the breast.  There are several possible locations for the small incision that will be used for inserting the breast implant.  The most frequent technique utilizes an incision made in the lower portion of the breast.  Another technique, makes an incision around the areola (the darker skin surrounding the nipple). The implants will be placed either under or over the muscle, depending on patient type. The best technique will be decided together between the patient and the surgeon during the consultation.

During surgery, the breast tissue is raised to create an open pocket under the breast tissue or beneath the chest wall muscle.  Inserting an implant behind each breast can increase a woman's breast size by one or more bra cup sizes.  Implants typically contain a saline solution (similar to saltwater) although in special cases the implants can contain a silicone gel.  Surgery typically lasts from 1 to 3 hours.

Recovery Process

Generally, post-operative instructions call for plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and recovery time.  Bandages and a surgical bra are applied right after surgery to aid the healing process and to minimize movement of the breasts.  Patients sometimes report minor pain associated with the surgery.  This pain can be treated effectively with oral medication. While complications are rare, patients can minimize potential problems by carefully following the directions given by the physician after surgery. Patients typically take 4-7 days off work after the surgery.