Since the 1960's, breast surgical procedures have undergone dramatic refinements and technological advances, thus becoming one of the most commonly requested cosmetic surgeries throughout the world. At Praxisklinik Urania a natural breast enhancement is a priority. As our patient, you will be informed comprehensively about the various surgical techniques available. Using our 3D simulation programme, various implants can not only be “tried on”, but also simulated on the computer. Apart from using silicone implants for breast augmentation, an alternative technique becoming increasingly popular is using the patient’s own body fat. A breast lift in conjunction with the augmentation could be recommended. With no additional incisions, an inner breast lift involves elevating the breast tissue (without tightening the skin), using a nipple lift technique (only skin tightening) or a classic breast lift (I and/or T-shaped scars) on the lower section of the breast.
TECHNIQUES
SILICONE IMPLANTS
Praxisklinik Urania recommends an incision just above the breast fold. This is because the length of the incision is shortest here, safety and access are optimized and the resulting scars are almost invisible. Alternatively, implants can be inserted via an incision around the areola, via the axilla or via the belly button (umbilicus).
IMPLANT PLACEMENT
Implants can be placed above or beneath the breast muscle. Depending on the patient's anatomy (fat content of the hypodermis), the most optimal procedure will be recommended.
FILLING, FORM AND CHARACTERISTICS
At our clinic we use only certified silicone implants with a lifetime guarantee. The filler of the latest silicone implants is chemically bound in such a way that, even with a tear in the outer shell, it will continue to maintain its shape and not leak into neighbouring tissue. The contents of today’s implants are not liquid, but rather contains a gel that maintains its shape.
Essentially, there are two types of implants. The round-shaped implant and the anatomical (teardrop-shaped) implant. Implants may have a smooth or textured surface. Depending on the quality of the patient's skin and breast, an individual implant must be selected to suit their own individual proportions and requirements.
ABOUT THE PROCEDURE
Prior to surgery, during routine consultation, each patient receives comprehensive information. In addition to our 'try-on' opportunity, our clinic offers an exclusive simulation programme created by a three-dimensional image. The appropriate size can thus be better estimated and the final outcome can be simulated with a probability of ninety-five percent.
Apart from a consultation, both a clinical examination and an ultrasound scan of the breast tissue are mandatory. The results of these examinations must be normal. In some cases, an MRI scan or a mammogram is requested for further diagnostic clarification. Two weeks prior to the procedure, the patient should stop smoking in order to reduce the risk of wound-healing impairments.
The one to two hour procedure is performed on an out-patient basis under sedation or general anaesthesia. Sutures usually dissolve on their own or are removed eight days after surgery. A sports bra and a breast band must be worn for four to six weeks. After two weeks, additional breast massages are required. A definitive evaluation of the patient's breast shape will only be performed between six and twelve months.
RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS
As with every surgical procedure, there is the risk of infection and secondary bleeding. Potential complications include capsular fibrosis. This is a major risk associated with breast surgery. The body produces a capsule of scar tissue around the foreign body. In some cases, this capsule leads to a hardening of the breast and, in extreme cases, results in the breast becoming deformed and the patient experiencing constant pain. Placing the implant beneath the muscle helps reduce this risk.
ABILITY TO BREAST FEED AND BREAST CANCER RISK
If the implant is placed via an incision in the breast fold beneath the muscle, the ability to breastfeed is usually unaffected. Research has shown no link between the use of breast implants and breast cancer.
BREAST AUGMENTATION USING PATIENT'S OWN FAT (AUTOLOGOUS FAT TRANSFER)
If a patient decides against using silicone implants, the technique of autologous fat transfer (fat grafting) may be an alternative. With this procedure, the augmentation of one cup size can be achieved. Typically, this requires two procedures, due to 40% of the autologous fat generally being absorbed within six months. This technique is a low-risk procedure. The first part of the operation is similar to the classic liposuction and is known as harvesting. Here we use special canulas and special fat collectors with filters to gain quality, fat cells.The second part of the operation comprises of injecting this fat into the subcutaneous tissue and under the mammary glands with special canulas. In order to benefit from the highest survival of this fat transplant, one needs to be under the care of experienced medical specialists and well trained staff.
The procedure is performed on an out-patient basis under sedation.
