Breast augmentation ranks as the number one cosmetic surgery procedure in the US today. The procedure can be significantly customized to meet the unique needs of a patient. Although different surgical techniques may be used to perform breast augmentation, but the overall procedure steps will largely remain unchanged.
At the time of initial consultation the breast surgeon will discuss the steps involved in the surgery to familiarize the patient with the procedure. Patients can make better decisions and feel more confident when they know all about the procedure. Dr. Suzanne Quardt (Dr. Q) is a board certified plastic surgeon providing breast augmentation to patients in Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, and surrounding communities.
Anesthesia
As a first step, the patient will be placed under general anesthesia or sedation. The surgeon will determine beforehand about the patient’s fitness to undergo general anesthesia, and an anesthesiologist or an anesthetist nurse will administer it. Once the plastic surgery procedure is over, the patient will be brought out of anesthesia.
Following the surgery, the anesthesia effects can linger for a few hours, and the patient may feel slightly nauseous, cold, and groggy. She should have someone responsible to drive her back home once she has recovered reasonably from the anesthesia effects.
Placing the Incisions
Following anesthesia, the surgeon will begin the procedure by placing incisions in well-concealed locations, which could be below the breast crease, under the arm, around the lower half of areola, or in exceptional cases, in the navel area. The surgeon’s goal will be to minimize subsequent scarring through discreet incisions.
The location of incisions will be decided as part of the surgical plan in consultation with the patient. The patient’s specific anatomical and aesthetic needs will be considered while making this decision. Experienced cosmetic surgeon Dr. Q receives patients from Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, and nearby areas for breast augmentation.
Placement of Implants
The surgeon may decide to place the implants in front of the pectoral muscle right behind the breast tissue, or just below the pectoral muscle. The appropriate recommendation will be made to the patient after taking into account the size of implants, the breast anatomy of the patient, and her personal aesthetic goals. The surgeon’s goal while making this decision will be to create desirable, natural looking results in a less invasive manner.
Wound Closure
After the surgeon has adjusted the implants into the breast pockets, they will close the wounds carefully with removable or absorbable sutures. Traditional sutures will usually be removed in about a week to 10 days. The incision site should be kept very clean to minimize the risk of infection. The patient should put minimal strain in the incision area until the healing has progressed.
Bandages and Drains
Right after the surgery, the surgeon will cover the incision areas with bandages. Temporary drain tubes will be placed underneath the skin in the incision areas to collect excess fluid. The patient will be provided with a special surgical bra, which she will have to wear for several weeks until the breasts have fully acquired their new shape and healed adequately.
To learn more about the plastic surgery treatments and procedures performed by Dr. Suzanne Quardt (Dr. Q) please contact us at 760-324-2660. To learn more about Dr. Q’s Medical Spa please visit drqmedicalspa.com
Schedule a Consultation: (760) 537.4579