Breast Augmentation, Implant and Reconstructive Surgery

Breast Reconstruction

Many women choose to undergo breast reconstruction surgery to replace an entire breast, after a mastectomy operation or to improve the breast shape after a lumpectomy operation. The goal of breast reconstructive surgery is to create natural looking breasts to restore shape and body either using implant technology or skin cells and fat from elsewhere on the patient’s body. Depending on how much breast tissue has been damaged or removed during the original surgery and any potential ongoing cancer treatment will determine how the reconstructive process is performed.

Breast Augmentation, Implant and Reconstructive Surgery

Breast augmentation surgery is a common cosmetic surgery procedure performed to alter or enhance the size, shape and position of breasts. Thousands of women each year elect to undergo cosmetic surgery procedures to help them achieve the body image they desire. For many women, this may entail breast implant surgery to enlarge their breasts and achieve a fuller, firmer cup size, for others it may be a breast uplift to return breasts to their original position after pregnancy or breast feeding. Some women may require breast surgery after developing breast cancer and undergoing a lumpectomy or mastectomy.

Types of Breast Implant

There is a wide variety of breast implants available to suit each individual patient’s needs. Here are just a few types of implants used in surgery:

Asymmetrical Breast Implants – shaped to produce a natural body contour and anatomical realism whilst restricting the scope for movement or displacement of the implant once inserted.

Gummy Bear Breast Implants – comprised of solid gel-like matter to produce firmer implants. Safer than traditional silicone implants these are much harder to rupture and will not leak.

Tear Drop Breast Implants – contoured breast implant, similar to asymmetrical implant for natural appearance and realistic body motion.

Round Breast Implant - provides the greatest amount of lift, cleavage and fullness. No danger of implant rotation.

It is important to discuss all your options with a consultant to consider the psychological implications of breast loss and reconstruction. There are many support groups available for women diagnosed with breast cancer.