Breast Augmentation in Beverly Hills

The traditional incision is an inframammary incision, which means an incision is made along the natural crease of the skin created underneath the breast. Despite having a negative reputation in some parts of the West, its cosmetic result can be excellent and it is Dr. Minniti’s preferred incision as well as the most common incision used worldwide.

The peri-areolar incision is the most popular procedure for breast augmentation in the West. It has enjoyed a positive reputation for being a superior incision based on its cosmetic results. However, based on Dr. Minniti’s vast experience involving evaluating thousands of breast augmentation patients, there tends to be a tendency for complications, including:

• Scar spread
• Discoloration
• Tethering

Further, advances in scientific research have shown that this method of breast augmentation puts patients at a high risk of experiencing capsular contracture, or a hardening of the breast due to scar tissue formation. Capsular contracture is the most common complication of breast augmentation surgeries.

The axillary incision (or ‘armpit incision’) is another viable method for those seeking breast augmentation. Some patients desire this remote location for a scar, while others would never want a scar there. In general, when placed correctly, this scar can end up looking like a natural crease in the armpit and can be unnoticeable.

The umbilical incision involves entering the body through the belly button and can leave little-if-any detectable scar. However, this particular plastic surgery procedure has not gained any sort of widespread popularity as numerous complications often occur, and it can only be performed with saline implants. As a result of its limitations and frequent complications, most thoughtful surgeons, including Dr. Minniti, have abandoned this procedure.

Implants can be positioned in three places:

• Above the pectoralis muscle
• Above the muscle but below the outer fascia of the muscle
• Below the pectoralis muscle.

Most data indicate better implant coverage with a lower risk of capsular contracture when the implant is placed below the pectoralis muscle. The one potential complication with sub-pectoral placement is implant movement and/or implant deformity with muscular contraction.*

*Individual results may vary

During your preoperative visit, a list of medications and supplements will be provided that detail what should not be taken within a two week period prior to surgery. Other than that, eating and sleeping well prior to surgery will help optimize your body. Smoking and drinking within a two week period prior to surgery is not advisable and puts you at substantial risk for complications.

You may awake in recovery with minimal pressure and stiffness. You may be able to have a bra on which fits you in a gentle snug fashion. Once home, you may take a Motrin and begin passive stretching exercises to relax your muscles every hour during the first day. Many people can feel well enough to go out to dinner the first night. we ask that you follow up in my office the next day for a quick check, and then again the following week. Showering is permissible the day after surgery. You can possibly feel comfortable resuming all normal daily activities within 72 hours, including driving.

Tape will be applied to your incisions, which can possibly be changed one week after surgery. It is important to keep incisions covered with paper tape for the first 6 weeks for scar management. Some may also use silicone tape for added benefit.

Over the next few weeks, exercise may possibly be incorporated back into your daily activities. Full recovery should not be expected for possibly 3 months.