Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure to enhance the appearance of the breasts creating larger, soft, natural breasts which is achieved by the insertion of breast prosthetics, or implants.

Breast enlargement surgery is one of the most popular plastic surgery options amongst women for several reasons. Probably the most significant benefit is women feel so much more confident with their new look and feel. Suddenly clothing just looks so much more appealing and your options to choose tighter, more revealing tops and dresses opens up. For many, smaller breasts are of great concern.

Other women seek implants to improve upon their breast shape, volume and to correct asymmetry. Breasts can become gradually smaller after pregnancy, which can also be improved through this type of surgery.

Dr Slabbert's practice uses the very latest, state of the art 8th generation silicone implants which are more durable and believed to be the safest option. These prostheses provide the patient with added choice in terms of the range available. They come in different sizes and shapes, with either textured or smooth surfaces. It is virtually impossible to distinguish the texture of the implant from regular breast tissue.

Dr Slabbert does not encourage the use of saline filled implants, due to them being leakage prone, as well as posing the risk of the implant becoming rippled. Some patients say they can hear the saline moving around which they find unsettling!

Dr Slabbert will discuss the whole concept with you in a caring and unhurried manner. He is careful to cover all the aspects to assist you in making the right choice. It is also very important for him to understand your reasons for considering breast augmentation.  

 Breast enlargement is for ladies:

• Simply desiring bigger breasts and to increase their cleavage
• Wanting to reverse the effects of pregnancy and breast feeding
• Want to regain breast size after weight loss
• Hoping to rectify differences in size between both breasts
• Desiring to correct uneven or deformed breasts
• Want to correct an absence of breast tissue due to a congenital (birth) problem
• Want to boost self-esteem and self-confidence.

Patients will often require more than one consultation to determine suitability, both emotionally as well as physically.

The process of selecting the ideal size, shape and position of the implant is generally determined by the shape and size of your body. Your chest wall structure and breast footprint needs to be carefully assessed to decide on the optimal diameter, projection and volume of the prosthesis.

Dr Slabbert has observed his patients to be positively affected both emotionally and mentally after having undergone breast augmentation surgery, with a significant boost in self esteem.

The procedure is achieved by surgically positioning the implant into a pocket which is created by means of an infra-mammary incision under the breast. This incision is made in the crease where the breast meets the chest wall. This ensures that potential scarring is as inconspicuous as possible.

Drainage pipes are inserted to prevent fluid build-up which can potentially delay healing and cause discomfort. Once Dr Slabbert is happy with the placement of the implants he will proceed with suturing and closing up the incisions.

Breast augmentation surgery takes about 45 minutes to an hour and requires a general anaesthetic.

It is important to plan for an overnight stay in the hospital. During this time Dr. Slabbert's nursing team will keep very careful watch over you to ensure you are as comfortable as possible and ensure your pain is under control.

Recovery is different for everyone.

You will experience the most discomfort during the first 24 to 72 hours. Your breasts will be swollen and very tender. Dr Slabbert recommends that a sports bra to be worn immediately after your procedure, for improved comfort and to support and protect your breasts during recovery. No wearing of underwire bras for 6 weeks after surgery. The drainage pipes are typically removed after approximately 2-3 days.

For up to a week after your procedure it will be necessary for you to sleep on your back. Regular pain medication, as well as sleeping tablets will be prescribed to assist you with this.

It is vital within the early stages of recovery not to over exert yourself as bleeding may occur and swelling will be exacerbated. Swelling will subside after 3 to 4 weeks. Driving should be avoided during the first week after your procedure. You can return to work after a week to ten days, and strenuous exercise may be recommended after 4-6 weeks.

For optimal healing, Dr Slabbert will provide you with a comprehensive scar management regimen. However, it may take up to 2 years for scars to mature.