It is a popular operation that is used to make smaller breasts appear larger, balance breasts that are asymmetrical, or restore lost fullness because of age or as a result of pregnancy.

Breast Augmentation

Surgery for breast prosthesis placement is probably the most commonly performed cosmetic surgery today. Over the years the implants have dramatically evolved, having today prostheses and technology, reliable, very safe. Previously it was said that we had to change the prosthesis every 10 years. Today, manufacturers of the best brands give a lifetime warranty on each of its products. Studies and long-term monitoring have shown that the prosthesis does not increase the risk of breast cancer and other diseases. That is why the FDA-after many years has finally given its approval for the placement of prosthesis silicone gel breast for cosmetic purposes in the United States.

Surgery is relatively simple and safe; It takes about 90 minutes, and the anesthesia used is regional or local, with sedation. You can use general anesthesia in special cases, but this only increases surgical risks and produces a less pleasant recovery.

The site of the incision can be in the crease under the breast, using the nipple or axillary (incision in the navel is reserved for saline implants, which are rarely used since). The recovery time is about 1 week, although I advise my patients not to drive the car in two weeks, because of the risk involved. The implant can go below or above the pectoral muscle, as the need arises (complexion of the patient, the current bust volume and desired type of implant, etc). Several types of breast implants (round, high or low profile, anatomical or teardrop).

From my personal point of view, it is in the office where the most important part of the surgery, which is planning takes place. Determine the type and size of implant, following the wishes and expectations of each patient, in proportion and respecting their anatomy, they require a lot of communication between doctor and patient. While execution procedure lasts only an hour and a half, usually prior planning in the office it takes many hours to ensure that both the patient and the surgeon have very clear the final goal. Special breast meters, before and after photos, and a detailed explanation of the process is what you can find by going to a query evaluation. As a plus, only the first query has a cost. All other pre- and post-procedure consultations are not charged. It is very important for us to be 100% sure that the patient understands the procedure and that the chosen size is correct.

Breast Reconstruction

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women, and each year approximately 13 000 cases are diagnosed in Mexico. Medical advances, different screening programs and the promotion of self-exploration have made this an increasingly curable disease. However, most of these patients undergo a mastectomy – removal of the breast – and this is not just a physical mutilation, but also an aggression against their femininity and self-esteem.
Today, many patients do not know that there are procedures to reconstruct a breast after cancer, either, consider unattainable. Emotional and social impact that breast reconstruction grants are documented in several scientific studies. The reconstruction can be immediate (during the mastectomy) or late (several months or years later).
A plastic surgeon can choose from several reconstructive techniques, the ideal for every patient. Some of them are:

Prosthetic reconstruction: When the mastectomy can be preserved breast skin, silicone implant is placed in the same surgery, replacing the lost tissue. This is an immediate reconstruction.

Expander reconstruction: When time is over and removed most of the breast skin, a prosthesis that slowly and gradually (over the course of weeks or months) expands, until finally the desired size is placed. This is a late technique because it takes months or years after a mastectomy.

Reconstruction with own tissue (TRAM flap, etc.): places like the abdomen, back or buttock of the patient and tissue donors are used. The TRAM flap has the advantage of not requiring the placement of a prosthesis, while using surplus tissue from the abdomen to reconstruct the breast.

After reconstruction can recreate the areola and nipple by tattooing techniques and / or surgery, obtaining a very real appearance.

Definitely the first thing is finally cured of the disease. The surgical oncologist can determine who is a candidate for reconstruction

Breast Reduction

Besides allowing breastfeeding, breasts are an element that transcends the relationship of women with their body. Every culture has given it many values ​​and symbolism throughout history. Also, the concept of ideals and aesthetic breast varies greatly from one culture to another, especially in terms of size. Western culture (especially the US) has adopted a firm trend, big round breasts, is considered beautiful. However, too large bust brings other problems: back pain, infections and skin irritation, psychological problems, among others. Therefore, surgery to reduce the size of the bust is one of the most procedures performed by plastic surgeon.

Breast hypertrophy is one condition in which breast tissue too, defined as greater than 600 g on each side develops. This development may be due to hormonal stimuli, such as during puberty (virginal hypertrophy) or pregnancy (gestational hypertrophy); It can occur due to some medical treatments (ej.penicilamina), and in patients with morbid obesity. In either case, there is usually bust asymmetry, increased the size of the areola-nipple, and ptosismamaria (“fallen bust”). The severity of this problem may be extreme, each breast can weigh several kilograms (gigantomastia), sometimes making it difficult to perform daily tasks such as driving or holding a baby.

Because of the variety in the cases, there are also several techniques to adequately reduce the size of the breasts. In general the principles that the plastic surgeon seeks are to maintain an aesthetic, naturally, and in proportion to the rest of the body; retain a functional mammary gland, which would allow breastfeeding; preserve the maximum sensitivity in such an important erogenous area. It is not always possible to achieve these objectives to the fullest, especially in the most severe cases.
Something that is important to note is that the breast reduction surgery almost always mean big scars that while completely hidden with clothing, not removed entirely. One of the main fears of the patients seeing these scars is the fear of postoperative pain, but on the contrary, this procedure does not produce as much pain as other (hurt more breast augmentation with implants, for example).
 
Most cases of breast reduction can be operated by regional anesthesia (known as “raquia”) and does not require general anesthesia. This makes it a safe procedure, with faster recovery and better postoperative pain control.
Importantly, the proper selection of the plastic surgeon is essential. The experience and specialist security must go hand in hand with good communication between the physician and the patient. This usually requires enough time before and after surgery, to meet the real expectations, clarify doubts and fears, and give appropriate follow later.