Frequent Questions About Breast Augmentation (Augmentation Mammoplasty)

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Below you will find a list of frequent questions about breast augmentation. Hawaii residents considering plastic surgery often have many questions about their procedure. If your question isn't answered here, contact us with your question, and be sure to include the name of the procedure that interests you.

• How is this procedure performed?
• How do I prepare for my Hawaii breast enhancement?
• How long does the procedure take?
• What form of anesthesia is used?
• Can I return home the day of my Hawaii breast enhancement?
• How long before I can return to normal activity?

How is this procedure performed?

An incision is made in one of three possible areas: under where the dark skin of the areola meets the light skin of the breast (periareolar); under the breast where it meets the chest wall (inframammary) or hidden in the armpit (axillary). During your initial consultation, Hawaii plastic surgeon Dr. Schlesinger will thoroughly discuss the placement of your incision, the pros and cons for you personally and consider your preferences.

During your Hawaii breast enhancement procedure, breast implants can be placed either under or above the chest (pectoral) muscle. Dr. Schlesinger will recommend a placement method depending on such factors as condition of existing breast tissue, body formation, and amount of sagging (ptosis) of the breast. If the implant is placed under the pectoral muscle, simple movement of the arms automatically moves the implant around in its pocket. In some patients, these muscles are extremely active and can distort the implant so it is important to discuss the right implant placement for you.

On rare occasions, during the actual surgery, Dr. Schlesinger may change the placement of the implant if a more optimum location can be determined. His goal is to achieve the most natural appearance possible after breast augmentation. Hawaii patients complete their procedure when the incision is close with stitches beneath the skin (subcuticular sutures). The incisions may also be taped for greater support and a gauze bandage applied to help with healing.

Peri-areolar Breast Augmentation

This Hawaii breast enhancement technique involves making incisions around the areola. This is the dark area surrounding the nipple. Because of the placement of the incisions, most residual scarring is hidden by the naturally dark pigment of the areola.

Infra-mammary Breast Augmentation

This Hawaii breast enhancement technique involves making a small incision in the infra mammary fold. This is the fold where the bottom of the breast meets the chest. The incision is placed so any residual scarring will be hidden by the fold of the breast.

You may choose to have other cosmetic procedures, such as liposuction, performed at the same time as breast augmentation. Hawaii patients should consult with Dr. Schlesinger to determine the best surgical schedule.

How do I prepare for my Hawaii breast enhancement?

To help determine the size of your post-operative breasts, purchase several bras in varying cup sizes and alternate wearing them with various types and styles of clothes. When you have chosen the size that feels best for you, bring that bra to your preoperative consultation. This will help to determine the size of your implants.

Please understand that the degree of your enlargement may be limited by the amount of tissue you have available to cover the implants. During your preoperative consultation, you will be given specific directions to help you prepare for your procedure. Instructions generally include taking vitamins, cautions about taking certain medication and drinking alcohol, the shaving process and use of antibacterial soap.

You must stop taking aspirin or aspirin containing medications for ten days prior to your surgery. Do not eat or drink anything eight hours before your procedure and do not smoke ten days prior to and two days after surgery. If you take daily medication, ask if it is safe to take prior to your procedure. If you have any sores on your body, if you have a cold, sore throat or allergic condition, inform Dr. Schlesinger so you may be examined again prior to your procedure.

How long does the procedure take?

Operating time is generally one to two hours.

What form of anesthesia is used?

Two types of anesthesia are available. General anesthesia is given by an expert anesthesiologist. This will allow you to "sleep" throughout the entire procedure. Local anesthesia combined with a sedative may also be an alternative depending on the informed choice you make after discussions with your surgeon.

Can I return home the day of my Hawaii breast enhancement?

Yes. Breast augmentation is performed on an ambulatory basis. However, it is necessary that you have someone to pick you up after the procedure, take you home, and stay with you for at least 24 hours.

How long before I can return to normal activity?

Most women return to their usual activities in one week. However, you must not lift anything for the first two weeks and do no heavy lifting for the first four weeks.

If you're ready to learn more about breast enhancement, request a Free Breast Augmentation Consultation with Hawaii plastic surgeon Dr. S. Larry Schlesinger at his plastic surgery offices in Honolulu, Maui and Kona.