Breast Fold Breast Augmentation in Oregon
Placement of breast implants through the fold at the base of the breast is the most common approach for breast augmentation in Oregon and Washington, and nationwide. This approach provides the most direct access for implant pocket creation and breast implant insertion. It also allows direct exposure for additional manipulations of the breast tissue and/or pectoralis muscle that are often required to treat some special breast shapes and conditions. Women (especially those with deep breast folds) commonly request this technique. In our practice, this breast augmentation approach is performed in numbers similar to the axillary approach.
Breast Implant Placement
If saline implants are used, they are filled to the correct volume. (Silicone gel implants come pre-filled and sealed from the manufacturer.) The size, symmetry and shape are then assessed. If needed, the patient's back will be raised as in the sitting position and the results are assessed with the patient "sitting up" (while under general anesthesia). The incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures, all under the skin. The wounds are covered with tissue glue or tape, gauze and a small clear dressing. Finally, a post-surgical sports bra is placed.
Breast Augmentation Recovery
The recovery is very similar for all three of the approaches to breast augmentation. The post-surgical pain is similar for all three approaches, as well. This is true because the majority of the pain after breast augmentation is from the manipulation of the muscle and creation of the space for the implant. These maneuvers for creating the space for the implant are nearly identical with all three approaches to breast augmentation.
After breast augmentation, no drains, pain pumps, or chest wraps are used—you simply wear a post-op bra, which is similar to a sports bra. You go home a couple of hours after surgery to rest. The day after surgery, you start feeling well and can shower and shampoo and blow-dry your hair. Most patients can return to most of their home and work activities within 5 to 7 days. Some patients return to work in 3 to 4 days after surgery, but this is not recommended. You can perform some exercises three weeks after surgery and you can resume full activity six weeks after surgery. For more information about the surgical experience please see our sections on day of surgery and your recovery.