Cosmetic Surgery Increases In Popularity In Many Countries

It has been reported that over 12 million cosmetic surgery procedures are carried out every year in the United States, with breast augmentation, liposuction, abdominoplasty, nasal surgery and eyelid surgery being the most common procedures. This represents a 50% increase in surgery since the year 2000. Procedures are also said to be very common in Europe and Asia.

Breast augmentations are the most common procedure. During these procedures the size and/or shape of the breasts are altered, most normally by using saline filled or silicone gel filled implants. There was a significant controversy about silicone implants (most notably in the US) during the last two decades, but extensive research into side-effects and complications has now been carried out.

Other operations often done on the breasts include reductions and lifts. Breast reductions (reduction mammoplasty) remove skin, fat and breast tissue from women with large breasts. This can significantly help with back and shoulder pain for these women. Some women with large breasts may also need help with psychological problems caused by the unwanted attention they may receive on account of their breasts.

Breast lifts (mastopexy) can be done to alter the shape of the breasts. This is often done to make them less saggy, for example after pregnancy. In mastopexy procedures skin is removed, but no breast tissue or fat tissue is removed.

Liposuction procedures remove fat from various sites on the body, such as the abdomen, the thighs and the buttocks. Generally there are many factors limiting how much fat can be sensibly removed in one procedure. These include lumpiness and dents in the skin when too much fat is removed. As the fat is removed from very specific parts of the body is it possible that the contouring effect improves the patient's appearance much more than the actual weight loss might suggest.

Generally liposuction should not be considered as an alternative to good diet and regular exercise. The removal of large volumes of fat (large defined as more than 5 liters or 8 pints) is potentially life-threatening. Liposuction is most suitable for removal of the last 10 or 15 pounds which might persist after a diet and exercise regime has been carried out. Older people have less elastic skin, which will not tighten around the new body shape as well as young people's skin.

Many people presenting for cosmetic surgery have suffered, or are suffering, psychological distress due to their appearance. For example studies have found that women who choose breast augmentation are more likely to have had psychotherapy than other women, and may have lower levels of self esteem. Mental illnesses such as depression and suicide attempts are more prevalent in cosmetic surgery patients.

Surveys carried out after the procedure showed that most patients reported improvements to their mental health and quality of life. These improvements included increased self confidence and self esteem. Although not all the health improvements continued in the longer term, most patients remained satisfied with the results of the operation. Doctors and researchers are however aware that some patients suffer from a so-called plastic surgery obsession, or body dismorphic disorder, and they can allow their obsession with altering their appearance to dominate their lives.

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adriana_N; plasticsurgeryportal.com; safecosmeticsurgery.net; wikipedia.org

Tipes of Breast Implants Incisions

One of the most important decisions you and your plastic surgeon will make before a breast augmentation procedure is which type of incision will be made for the insertion of the implant. Many plastic surgeons favor a particular approach in all cases, while others will suggest a type of incision that best suits each individual patient. Here’s a closer look at the four most common types of breast implant incisions, including the pros and cons of each method.

BREAST IMPLANT INCISION TYPE 1: PERIAREOLAR INCISION

When it comes to the areola method, the incision is made around the outline of the areola, the brown or pink colored area surrounding the nipple. The surgeon’s goal is to make the incision in between the dark area of the areola and its surrounding skin, which helps to minimize the incision’s visibility. The drawbacks of the periareolar incision are that 2-5% of patients lose nipple sensation, and 20% are unable to breast feed as compared to other incision sites. Advantages of the periareolar incision are that it allows the surgeon to have the greatest control over the position of the implant, which leads to better accuracy of the implants’ placement and minimal visibility of scarring.

BREAST IMPLANT INCISION TYPE 2:

TRANSAXILLARY INCISION

Made in the natural fold of the armpit tissue, the transaxillary incision is created through a channel from the armpit to the breast and then the implant is placed behind the nipple. Sometimes the surgeon uses an endoscope; a small tube with surgical light and camera to guide the surgeon through the incision. One disadvantage is that 10-15% of patients who undergo the transaxillary incision will have a greater risk of asymmetry in the breast implant’s position. However, there is virtually no scaring on breast as it is performed from a distanced incision site.

BREAST IMPLANT INCISION TYPE 3: INFRAMMARY INCISION

Performed along the bottom of breast, the inframmary incision is placed along the crease or fold of the breast where the breast and skin come together. The surgeon creates a pocket to place the implant, and then slides it upward through the incision site and places it behind the nipple. White the inframmary incision may leave a scar along the lower portion of the breast where the bra strap lies; it can be easily hidden under a bra or swimsuit top. A major advantage of the inframmary incision is that it allows the surgeon to work closely to the breast, which provides excellent visibility and accuracy of the implants placement.

BREAST IMPLANT INCISION TYPE 4: TUBA INCISION

In the TUBA Incision, the cut is made on the rim of the navel, and underneath the skin through a tunnel of fatty tissue. The endoscope helps to guide the surgeon through the pathway from navel to breast, and a pocket is created which allows the breast implant to be inserted through the incision site, and placed behind the nipple. Because the TUBA incision is a blind procedure, the surgeon relies heavily on the endoscope to identify the breast implants placement, which challenges the surgeon to perform accuracy in creating breast asymmetry. On the other hand, in the TUBA Incision, there are no incisions in the breast area, so it is almost guaranteed that there will be no breast scarring.

SUMMING UP

No matter which type of breast augmentation incision you might be leaning toward, this important decision should only be made after weighing all your options with your plastic surgeon.

source: plasticsurgeryportal.com; safecosmeticsurgery.net; wikipedia.org

Breast Augmentation Vs Breast Lift: Which is Right for You?

If you are looking to enhance the appearance of your bust line, there are a number of options available. The technique you choose will depend on the specific issues you are hoping to resolve and the overall outcome you want to achieve. Two of the most popular procedures for breast enhancement are breast augmentation and a breast lift. We will take a look at each of these procedures to help you determine if one, or possibly both, are suited to you and your cosmetic goals.

What is a Breast Lift?

A breast lift, also known as a mastopexy, raises and firms the breasts for a whole new contour. While some procedures may provide additional cleavage due to the new positioning of the breasts, this technique does not actually

make the breasts bigger by itself. Some of the benefits of a breast lift include:

• A fix for drooping breasts
• A repositioning of the nipple for a more natural look
• A younger, perkier contour with firmer breasts

While a breast lift is helpful for sagging breasts, there are some drawbacks to the procedure, including more scarring than with breast augmentation. Some women are also disappointed to find that their breast size does not increase with this procedure, so the results may not be as dramatic as they were hoping for.

What is Breast Augmentation?

The purpose of breast augmentation is to actually increase your cup size by placing implants into your breasts to get a larger size. Implants come in either saline or silicone, with saline often the less expensive option. However, saline implants can leak, leading many women to pay a little more for the peace of mind of silicone implants. The benefits of breast augmentation include:

• A variety of implants allow women to get the look they desire
• Scarring is usually in an inconspicuous area
• The breasts measure larger after the procedure

If a woman who is seeking a breast augmentation also has a problem with drooping breasts, the augmentation procedure alone will not reposition the nipples for a more natural look. In these circumstances, it may be necessary to perform both augmentation and a lift. This can be done in a single procedure, or the lift can be done some time after the augmentation is complete.

Which is Right for You?

The choice to have breast augmentation and/or a breast lift is a personal one. As a general rule, women who have sagging breasts will probably want to consider a breast lift. However, women must understand that they will be exchanging the drooping effect for a significant amount of scarring. When the sagging is pronounced, this decision may be an easy one to make. However, for those who have mild to moderate sagging, the decision may not be quite so easy.

For women who do not experience any sagging, but want to increase the size of the breasts, a breast augmentation is probably a better decision. Implants will increase breast size and provide additional cleavage. The choice between saline and silicone implants is not always an easy one, nor is it simple to know the best placement for the implants. A patient and doctor must work together to determine the best choice for a patient's individual body shape and needs.

In some cases, both procedures may be performed at once for a more dramatic result. The increased breast size is easily supported by the lift procedure, and the nipple repositioning provides a more natural look. If you think you will need both procedures for best results, talk to your doctor about whether you should have both done at the same time. If you are unsure of the breast lift procedure, your doctor may recommend getting breast augmentation first, and then deciding whether a breast lift is still required to achieve the desired result.

Women who are unhappy with the look of their breasts have a number of options available. Whether you are considering a breast augmentation, breast lift or a combination of the two, it is important to talk to a board-certified plastic surgeon to assess all your options thoroughly.

source: plasticsurgeryportal.com; safecosmeticsurgery.net; wikipedia.org

BREAST RECONSTRUCTION: other plastic surgery

Breast reconstruction is intended for breast cancer patients who had to undergo a mastectomy (removal of a breast or breasts) or a severely deforming lumpectomy (removal of just the cancerous area).

Breast cancer can be devastating, even after recovering from it you might never feel the same; but breast reconstruction surgery might be able to help. While breast reconstruction after a mastectomy offers only a cosmetic solution, it might be something that truly helps boost your self-esteem and return your feminine confidence.

There are different methods of reconstruction after breast cancer that should be discussed with your plastic surgeon, though different circumstances may require that a certain technique be used. In some breast reconstruction procedures, the skin is conditioned over weeks to months with a saline solution, and a silicone or saline implant is then inserted. An alternative breast reconstruction method called "flap reconstruction" pulls skin, fat, and muscle from other parts of the body to either create a pocket (or flap) for an implant, or create a breast mound on its own.

During your consultation, your surgeon will work with you to determine the method that will meet your unique needs and expectations.

Typical Minimum Cost of Breast Reconstruction (based on national averages): $5,000.00

Typical Maximum Cost of Breast Reconstruction (based on national averages): $9,000.00

National Average Cost of Breast Reconstruction: $7,000.00

Time Required for Breast Reconstruction:

It can take anywhere from 2-6 hours to perform breast reconstruction surgery. Time requirements vary depending on the method of surgery chosen, and the extent of work needed.

Is Breast Reconstruction an InPatient or OutPatient Procedure?

Breast reconstruction may be outpatient or inpatient, depending on the extent of surgery and method used. Some situations may require that patients stay in the hospital for up to 5 days.

What are the Side Effects of Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction surgery side effects can include temporary swelling and scarring. You can also expect a change in breast sensation - most feeling should eventually come back, but you will won't have the same nerve sensitivity you had before the surgery.

How Long do Breast Reconstruction results last?

Breast reconstruction results usually offer comfort to patients, as they improve overall appearance and contour. However, if you only have one breast reconstructed, it will likely have a different shape and firmness than the natural breast does. Some women later have surgery on the natural breast to achieve better balance. The breast reconstruction surgery results are very long-lasting to permanent.

What is the recovery time for Breast Reconstruction?

Day 1-42 Overall physical recovery from breast reconstruction can take up to 6 weeks, though this can vary depending on the extent of surgery and method used. Day 10 Sutures are usually removed about 10 days after surgery. Day 21 By this point, it is likely that you can return to work. However, many people still feel tired half way through the day and may opt to take more time off work.

Day 21-42 It is usually recommended that anything strenuous - heavy lifting, sexual intercourse, contact sports - be abstained from for about 3-6 weeks after surgery.

Note**After breast reconstruction, recovery of scarring can take up to 2 years to be complete.

Will my insurance company cover Breast Reconstruction?

Because of the reconstructive and emotional necessity of breast reconstruction surgery, insurance will most likely be involved.

Is there much discomfort for Breast Reconstruction?

After breast reconstruction, discomfort can be expected, as the breasts and donor area may be tender and sore for some time. Prescription pain medication will help control the discomfort.

What types of anesthesia is necessary for Breast Reconstruction?

The breast reconstruction anesthesia of choice is usually general.

What else can I combine Breast Reconstruction with?

Breast reconstruction surgery may be combined with nipple reconstruction, though many patients have them performed as two separate procedures. Also, many women have their natural breast lifted or augmented to be more symmetrical with their reconstructed breast.

What else is Breast Reconstruction referred to as?

Different breast reconstruction techniques include: Skin Expansion. Flap Reconstruction.

source: plasticsurgeryportal.com; safecosmeticsurgery.net; wikipedia.org

Breast Lift Cosmetic Surgery Part 3

What are some variations to the common breast lifting technique?

There are many variations to the design of the incisions for breast lift surgery. The size and shape of your breasts, size of your areolas, and extent of sagging are factors that will help your plastic surgeon determine the best technique for you.

In some instances, it may be possible to avoid the horizontal incision beneath the breast. Sometimes a technique may be used that avoids this horizontal incision as well as the vertical incision that runs from the bottom edge of the areola to the breast crease. If you are a good candidate for a modified technique, your plastic surgeon will discuss this with you.

If you and your plastic surgeon have decided that it is desirable to enlarge your breasts at the same time as they are lifted, this will require insertion of breast implants. If this is an option that you wish to consider, your surgeon will review the necessary information with you and may provide you with a brochure on breast augmentation.

Understanding Risks of this Cosmetic Surgery

Fortunately, significant complications from breast lifts are infrequent. Every year, many thousands of women undergo successful breast lift surgery, experience no major problems and are pleased with the results. Anyone considering surgery, however, should be aware of both the benefits and risks.

I understand that every surgical procedure has risks, but how will I learn more so that I can make an informed decision? The subject of risks and potential complications of surgery is best discussed on a personal basis between you and your plastic surgeon, or with a staff member in your surgeon's office.

Some of the potential complications that may be discussed with you include bleeding, infection and reactions to anesthesia. Following a breast lift, sometimes the breasts may not be perfectly symmetrical or the nipple height may vary slightly. Minor adjustments often can be made at a later time. Permanent loss of sensation in the nipples or areas of breast skin may occur rarely. Revisionary surgery may sometimes be helpful in certain instances where incisions may have healed poorly. You can help to lessen certain risks by following the advice and instructions of your plastic surgeon, both before and after surgery.

Your Surgical Experience

How should I prepare for surgery?

The goal of your plastic surgeon and the entire staff is to make your surgical experience as easy and comfortable for you as possible.

Depending on your age, or if you have a history of breast cancer in your family, your plastic surgeon may recommend a baseline mammogram before surgery and another mammographic examination some months after surgery. This will help to detect any future changes in your breast tissue. Following a breast lift, you will still be able to perform breast self-examination. Breast lift surgery will not increase your risk of developing breast cancer.

If you are a smoker, you will be asked to stop smoking well in advance of surgery. Aspirin and certain anti-inflammatory drugs can cause increased bleeding, so you should avoid taking these medications for a period of time before surgery. Your surgeon will provide you with additional preoperative instructions.

Breast lift surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis. If this is the case, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery and to stay with you at least the first night.

What will the day of surgery be like?

Your breast lift surgery may be performed in a hospital, free-standing ambulatory facility or office-based surgical suite.

Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure. Often, a general anesthetic is administered, so that you will be asleep throughout the procedure.

Alternatively, a breast lift may be performed using local anesthesia and intravenous sedation. When surgery is completed, you will be taken into a recovery area where you will continue to be closely monitored. Sometimes, small drain tubes will have been placed in your breasts to help avoid the accumulation of fluids. Gauze or other dressings may be placed on your breasts and covered with an elastic bandage or surgical bra.

You may be permitted to go home after a few hours, unless you and your plastic surgeon have determined that you will stay in the hospital or surgical facility overnight.

source: safecosmeticsurgery.net; wikipedia.org

Breast Lift Cosmetic Surgery Part 2

During the consultation, you will be asked about your desired breast shape and size. Your plastic surgeon will discuss with you how your nipples and areolas will be repositioned. You should mention anything else about your breasts that you would like to see improved. This will help your surgeon to understand your expectations and determine whether they realistically can be achieved.

How will my plastic surgeon evaluate me for breast lift surgery?

Your plastic surgeon will examine your breasts, taking measurements and perhaps photographs for your medical record. The size and shape of your breasts, the quality of your skin, and the placement of the nipples and areolas will be carefully evaluated. You should come to the consultation prepared to discuss your medical history. This will include information about any medical conditions, drug allergies, medical treatments you have received, previous surgeries including breast biopsies, and medications that you currently take. It is important for you to provide complete information. You should tell your plastic surgeon if you plan to lose a significant amount of weight, particularly if you have noticed that your breasts sag or become smaller with weight loss. Your surgeon may recommend that you stabilize your weight before having surgery.

Will my insurance help cover the cost of surgery?

Breast lift surgery, as an aesthetic (cosmetic) procedure, generally is not covered by insurance. Under certain circumstances, however, insurance coverage may be available. For example, if a breast reconstruction after mastectomy is performed, the opposite breast may need to be modified for symmetry. Many factors determine your eligibility for coverage, including the specific terms of your insurance policy. A letter of predetermination may be required by your insurance company prior to surgery. Your plastic surgeon or a staff member in your surgeon's office will discuss these matters with you.

How a Breast Lift

Is Performed Individual factors and personal preferences will determine the specific technique selected to lift your breasts. Incisions following the breast's natural contour define the area of excision and the new location for the nipple and areola. Skin in the shaded area is removed, and the nipple and areola are moved to a higher position.

Where are the incisions placed?

A common method of lifting the breasts involves three incisions. One incision is made around the areola. Another runs vertically from the bottom edge of the areola to the crease underneath the breast. The third incision is horizontal beneath the breast and follows the natural curve of the breast crease. After the plastic surgeon has removed excess breast skin, the nipple and areola are shifted to a higher position. The areola, which in a sagging breast may have been stretched, can be reduced in size. Skin that was formerly located above the areola is brought down and together beneath it to reshape the breast. The nipples and areolas remain attached to underlying mounds of tissue, and this usually allows for the preservation of sensation and the ability to breast-feed. Skin formerly located above the areola is brought down and together beneath it to reshape the breast. In the next part: What are some variations to the common breast lifting technique? And more topics about this kind of cosmetic surgery.

Sources: safecosmeticsurgery.net, wikipedia.org

Breast Lift Cosmetic Surgery

Loss of skin elasticity, gravity and other factors such as weight loss, pregnancy and breast-feeding ultimately affect the shape and firmness of your breasts. Patients who are generally satisfied with the size of their breasts can have a breast lift to raise and firm them, resulting in a more youthful breast contour. Some patients may be unhappy that they have lost a significant amount of breast volume over time. In such cases, implants inserted in conjunction with a breast lift can increase breast size at the same time as the shape and position of the breasts are enhanced.

Am I a good candidate for a breast lift?

You may be a good candidate for breast lift surgery if you have one or more of the following conditions:

• Breasts that are pendulous, but of satisfactory size.


• Breasts that lack substance or firmness.


• Nipples and areolas that point downward, especially if they are positioned below the breast crease.

Sometimes these conditions may be inherited traits. In certain cases, the breasts may have developed differently so that one breast is firm and well positioned while the other is not. There may be differences in the size of your breasts as well as their shape. Breasts that are large and heavy can be lifted, but the results may not be as long-lasting as when the procedure is done on smaller breasts.A breast lift can be performed at any age, but plastic surgeons usually recommend waiting until breast development has stopped.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding may have significant and unpredictable effects on the size and shape of your breasts. Nevertheless, many women decide to undergo breast lift surgery before having children and feel that they can address any subsequent changes later. Since the milk ducts and nipples are left intact, breast lift surgery usually will not affect your ability to breast-feed; however, you should discuss this with your plastic surgeons.

Source: safecosmeticsurgery.net

wikipedia.org