Breast Augmentation (Augmentation Mammaplasty)

Augmentation mammaplasty is typically performed to enlarge small breasts, underdeveloped breasts or breasts that have decreased in size after a woman has had children. It is accomplished by surgically inserting an implant behind each breast.
Usually, an incision is made either under the breast, or around the areola (the pigmented skin surrounding the nipple). A pocket is created for the implant either behind the breast tissue or behind the muscle between the breast and the chest wall.
Following surgery, you will wear a gauze dressing or surgical bra. Some swelling or discoloration will occur but will disappear shortly after surgery. Vigorous activities, especially arm movement, may be restricted for two to three weeks following surgery.
The most common of the known risks associated with breast implants is capsular contracture, a tightening of scar tissue around the implant, which results in varying degrees of breast firmness and may cause pain or changes in the breast's appearance. Other known risks include implant rupture (deflation of a saline—filled implant) and temporary or permanent changes in nipple or breast sensation.
Considering all available scientific research, it appears that breast implants are neither associated with any risk of connective tissue disease nor with any increased risk of developing breast cancer. The presence of breast implants requires special mammographic techniques and may compromise the effectiveness of mammography for early cancer detection. Your surgeon will discuss with you these and other possible risks that you should consider carefully.
Most commonly, this procedure is performed under local anesthesia with intravenous sedation. Dr. Worland has almost exclusively placed the implants under the muscle since 1982, to diminish the occurrence of firmness. Dr. Worland strongly believes that the smooth, round implant is far superior to the anatomic implant that some surgeons advocate, and has the backing for this opinion by the majority of plastic surgeons. Implant manufacturers offer excellent warranties for their products.

Breast Augmentation - Before and After Pictures

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Augmentation mammaplasty patient shown before surgery.


An incision is made either underneath the breast just above the crease, around the lower edge of the areola (the pigmented area surrounding the nipple) or in the armpit.


Cross section of the breast shows location of the implant, either in a pocket directly under the breast tissue or underneath the chest muscle.


The postoperative patient with fuller breasts.

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