This is a surgical procedure to increase the size of the breasts. While several options are available to use as implants, I personally prefer silicone implants, either silicone gel filled or, rarely, saline filled. The implants used by me are of an extremely high quality, medical grade and have served me well for almost 20 years. The silicone in these implants is a 'cohesive gel', which means that it does not FLOW even in the unlikely event of a rupture. Also, the controversy surrounding their use in the body has now been put to rest by scientific research from all over the world. It is now conclusively proven beyond reasonable doubt that silicone breast implants are safe for use in breast augmentation and are in no way related to breast disease of any kind.

I use the sub-mammary incision because I believe that it leaves the least objectionable scars even in darker skin types and does the least damage to breast or muscle . The procedure involves creating a pocket under the skin and inserting the implant between the glandular tissue and the muscle ( usually ) , or under the pectoral muscle ( sometimes ). Skin is closed using subcuticular sutures and a compressive dressing is applied.

General anaesthesia is used. The procedure takes about an hour.

The surgery is performed as a day care surgery, usually in the early morning, so that the patient is fit for discharge by the evening. Patient may opt to stay on for the night , especially if the surgery is combined with other aesthetic procedures.

A mild, usually temporary, change in nipple sensation occurs sometimes. Breast asymmetry, which existed pre-operatively, may become more apparent to the eye. Disappointment with size is easily avoided by having an open discussion about expectations before the surgery.

The first dressing is done at 48 hrs. after which the patient is allowed to shower. Thereafter, dressing changes are done by the patient, and the patient wears a sports bra for support. This continues for about 10-12 days, when the stitches are taken off. Regular inner wear can be worn after 2 weeks. No sport or gym is allowed for a month, although he patient may start tread mill activity as early as 2 weeks post op.

This surgery is definitely one that gives instant gratification! Implants are long lasting and could be considered life long. 10% of patients return to have the sizes increased over a 12 to 15 year period. One must however keep in mind the fact that these are man-made devices that may fail, however rare that might be.

While the benefits of surgery will be apparent for several years, the effects of aging may necessitate change of implant when they become compelling.