Documented as early as the 1890s, breast augmentation is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic surgery procedures. Implants in a breast augmentation procedure was first reported in 1962.

Breast augmentation utilizes implants to enlarge and/or improve the contour of the breasts. An important choice in implants is in deciding between saline-filled implants or silicone gel-filled implants. The implants are filled with saline once they are placed in the body. Implants come in a variety of sizes, and can be tailored, also including shape and texture, to each individual based on the look each would like to achieve and the anatomical fit to her body.

Some reasons patients choose breast augmentation include::

• Asymmetry (unequal breast size)
• Effects of aging
• Loss of volume after pregnancy and/or breast feeding
• Loss of volume after weight loss
• Reconstruction after breast cancer
• Underdeveloped breasts

Women who have lost volume or size in their breasts from breast feeding, weight loss or gain or aging, breast augmentation can restore a look they once had. Breast augmentation can dramatically improve body contour. Some do not naturally develop breast tissue proportional to the rest of their body due to genetics. Breast augmentation gives these patients a sense of proportion and/or femininity they never had. Regardless of the reason, for many women a breast augmentation can help build their self confidence and improve their self image. The results can be phenomenal. Self renewal and improved confidence may be the most significant result.

Before And After Pictures

There are four accepted techniques for the insertion of breast implants: inframmamary, or through the breast crease underneath the breast; periareolar, or inserted underneath the nipple where the scar is hidden in the darkened portion of the nipple perimeter; axillary, or through the armpit; and transumbilical, or inserted endoscopically through the navel. Well versed in all four techniques, Dr. Sumpter usually performs the procedure either periareolar or transumbilical in most cases. The transumbilical method is the most recently developed form of breast augmentation. If method of insertion is important to you, it may affect your choice between saline and silicone gel implants.

These techniques are discussed with the patient at a consultation. In all four methods, the scars are usually small and designed to be carefully hidden due to their placement.

Click here to view typical incision locations and before and after images.

Implants can be placed submuscular, underneath the pectoralis major muscle, or subglandular, underneath the breast glands, but above the pectoralis major muscle. Dr. Sumpter prefers to insert the implants submuscular in most cases. In her experience, she has found this to produce a more natural appearance and decrease interior scar formation.

The procedure can usually be performed in less than two hours. Many patients are able to return to work in as little as three days. Discomfort is minimal and often requires no additional medication post operatively. Patients can expect slight bruising and swelling for one to two weeks following surgery.

As with any cosmetic surgery procedure or treatment, you should thoroughly discuss your expectations and the result you are looking for with the doctor. During a consultation, Dr. Sumpter will discuss every detail of the process with you including downtime and recovery, as well as mention optional treatments, so that you may decide what is the best course of action for yourself.

If you are interested in learning more about breast augmentation and finding out if it is for you, or if you have interest in any other cosmetic surgery procedures or treatments in the Houston metro area, please call us at 281-894-9990 or email us with your name, phone number and area of interest, so that we may contact you and schedule a free, one-on-one consultation with Dr. Sumpter. A consultation is the best way to have all of your questions and concerns answered and get all the information you need to make your decision.

At Winds of Change, you will receive special, individualized care that you deserve. Dr. Sumpter strives to exceed expectations beyond patient satisfaction. Please let us know how we may help you achieve your goals.