Breast augmentation surgery

One of the most-requested procedures that Dr. Hamilton performs at an accredited hospital in Calgary is breast augmentation surgery. During this procedure, breast implants filled with either saline or silicone, are inserted under the skin. Breast augmentation surgery is usually performed for one of several reasons: the patient may want to compensate for weight that may have been lost through pregnancy, aging or diet. The procedure may also be done for cosmetic reasons, when the patient wishes to have greater size or volume in her breasts.

Dr. Hamilton's guidance

Some patients may feel less-than-satisfied with the size of their breasts. For these women, breast augmentation surgery performed by Dr. Hamilton, at an accredited hospital in Calgary, may be a procedure to consider. This procedure can achieve:

• Increasing the shape and size of your breasts
• A more satisfying self-image and greater self-confidence
• A more balanced figure

Limitations

Breast augmentation surgery would not be employed to correct severely sagging breasts. For fuller-looking breasts, or to reposition them due to sagging, a breast lift may be a better option.

Breast lifts are often done in conjunction with breast augmentation surgery. Conversely, it may also be done as a separate operation. Dr. Hamilton will help you make the correct decision for your circumstances

Breast augmentation surgery - the facts

A successful outcome to your breast augmentation surgery will depend, in large part, on complete candor during your consultation with Dr. Hamilton. A discussion concerning any problems, questions and concerns you may have, will take place with Dr. Hamilton in Calgary, prior to your final decision. He will ask a number of questions about your health, lifestyle and expectations.

Dr. Hamilton will ask about your reasons for wanting breast augmentation surgery, and your expectations as well as the outcome you're anticipating.

Dr. Hamilton will also note any medical conditions and drug allergies you may have, as well as any medical treatments you may be currently receiving.

The doctor will discuss with you, all current medications which you may be taking. He will ask about any previous surgeries you have had. Finally, Dr. Hamilton will want to know about any family history of breast cancer, as well as the results of any previous biopsies and mammograms.

Your consultation with Dr. Hamilton will also include:

• An evaluation of your general health, including any pre-existing health conditions or other potential risk factors
• Photographing your breasts to include as part of your medical records
• Discussion of your options and course of treatment
• Consideration of the probable outcomes of breast augmentation surgery as well as any potential risks or complications
• Discussion of the use of anesthesia during your breast augmentation procedure

Prior to surgery

Prior to your breast augmentation surgery, Dr. Hamilton may ask you to:

• Have specific lab tests and / or a medical evaluation
• Stop smoking
• Take certain medications or adjust any current ones you may be taking
• Have a baseline mammogram taken before surgery and another one following surgery. This will help to identify any future changes in your breast tissue
• Avoid taking certain anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements, as they can augment bleeding

You will receive special directives from Dr. Hamilton, which will cover what to do on the day of surgery, as well as post-operative care and follow-up.

Bring a friend

If your breast augmentation surgery is performed by Dr. Hamilton on an outpatient basis at the accredited hospital in Calgary, please be sure to have someone accompany you and stay with you for at least the first night following surgery.

Breast augmentation: artistic choices

Implants: saline or silicone?

The size and shape that you want your breasts to be are important, so be frank about your expectations when consulting with Dr. Hamilton.

Dr. Hamilton will establish the size and type of implants that will be appropriate for you. This will be based, not just on the augmented size you desire, but more importantly, on the composition of your breasts, the degree of elasticity in your skin and your body type.

Breast implants: choices

Saline breast implants are filled with varying amounts of saline. This can affect the firmness and feel of the breast as well as its shape.

Silicone breast implants contain an elastic gel. The gel feels and moves much like natural breast tissue.

Implant manufacturers sometimes introduce new types and styles of implants. As a result, additional choices may be available just prior to the procedure.

The results of breast augmentation surgery will be immediately apparent. As time goes on, post-surgical swelling will be reduced, and incision lines will be less noticeable. Approval of your new image should continue to grow as you recover and appreciate the fulfillment of your desire for breasts that are fuller or larger.

Recovery from your procedure

Several issues are involved in determining your likely recovery time from the breast augmentation procedure. Generally, the post-surgical recovery period is 24 to 48 hours. There is usually a period of a few days during which your activity should be limited, following the immediate post-surgical recovery. Soreness and swelling may be experienced for a few weeks. Post-surgical swelling will continue to decrease and the incision lines will fade.

Final results

The results of your breast augmentation surgery performed by Dr. Hamilton at an accredited hospital in Calgary will be ongoing. Wearing certain styles of clothing and swimwear will be easier. Many women, who have had breast augmentation surgery, often notice an increase in their self-confidence.

Caution

One important consideration is that, after receiving breast implants, results are usually not permanent. Replacements may be required during your lifetime. Future visits with Dr. Hamilton should be expected, in order to monitor any changes in your breasts.

Continue to follow Dr. Hamilton's directions to ensure optimum results following your breast augmentation procedure. Be sure to schedule follow-up visits with Dr. Hamilton at his Calgary office, as advised.