Procedure Overview: Breast Augmentation (Augmentation Mammoplasty-Breast Implants)

The procedure is Breast Augmentation (augmentation mammoplasty). It can be performed using breast implants or, less commonly, autologous fat transfer. (At eláen, we reserve fat transfer for selected reconstructive cases).

Our surgical team at eláen, featuring board-certified plastic surgeons in Mexico, includes Dr. Alejandro Enriquez de Rivera Campero and Dr. Rosa María Nava Garibaldi. They possess extensive combined surgical experience, including advanced techniques.

Our team understands that cosmetic procedures may be a source of anxiety. We prioritize clear communication of every aspect of the enhancement process, starting from your very first consultation.

In addition to Breast Augmentation, our center in Mexico also offers Breast Lift (Mastopexy), Breast Reduction, and Breast Asymmetry Correction.

Background and Objectives

Breast Augmentation (also called augmentation mammoplasty) is a procedure intended to increase the fullness and projection of the breasts. Its objectives are to achieve better symmetry or a general harmonization of the breast and hip contours.

Candidates for Breast Augmentation

• Healthy individuals, not pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Patients who have reached full breast development.
• Patients who are dissatisfied with the size or shape of their breasts.
• Patients with certain congenital conditions with underdeveloped breasts.
• Patients who possess realistic expectations and are prepared to adhere to all pre- and post-operative instructions.

Breast Implants: Mentor Gel Implants and Options

Implant Classification

• Shape: Round or Anatomical (sometimes called “gummy bear”).
• Profile: Indicates the distance the implant will project from the body. A higher profile results in a more prominent silhouette.
• Size: Measured in cubic centimeters (cc’s), which indicates the volume. Implants typically range from approximately 120cc to 960cc.
• Outer Layer: Smooth or Textured.
• Filling: Saline or Silicone.

Our Choice: Mentor Gel Implants

Our center exclusively uses Mentor Gel Implants. These implants are chosen for their feel, which closely mimics natural breast tissue, and their history of safety and reliability. They are:

• FDA approved.
• Filled with highly cohesive gel.
• Designed to hold together uniformly, providing a natural look and feel.
• Designed to hold a set fill volume for enhanced precision during placement.

Procedure Description and Advanced Techniques

The goal is to make the breasts fuller (via augmentation) and, if combined with a lift, firmer, while prioritizing the circulation of the surrounding tissues.

Our surgical team may implement the Submuscular (dual-plane) technique, which is often selected for its potential to help maintain the implant’s position over time.

Anesthesia Protocol: Twilight Sedation and Epidural

For patient comfort and safety, we utilize Twilight Sedation combined with an Epidural (in contrast to the more common use of general anesthesia in many clinics). Twilight Sedation is an anesthetic technique that uses a mild dose of medication to provide anxiety relief, hypnosis, and amnesia. The patient remains comfortably sedated and breathes independently. Epidural anesthesia is a safe technique that can support patient recovery and is not associated with the neurologic or respiratory complications of deep general anesthesia.

Surgical Approaches for Implant Placement

Breast Augmentation surgery requires surgical approaches for implant placement, which typically include:

• Inframammary Incision: The most common approach, involving a 3 to 4 cm incision placed in or adjacent to the crease beneath the breast. It offers the most direct route and generally requires the least operative time.
• Periareolar Incision: An incision around the edge of the areola, which often results in a less conspicuous scar. This approach can, however, make the necessary surgical dissection more complex.
• Trans-Mastopexy Incision: Placement through the incisions made for a concurrent breast lift (mastopexy).

The choice of approach is determined by several factors, including the consultation with your surgeon.

Complementary Procedures

Each patient is individually evaluated by our team to ensure the best possible result. Procedures that can be combined with breast implants include a Breast Lift (Mastopexy) or a Breast Reduction.

Limitations and Important Considerations

• Breast Augmentation alone does not correct ptosis (breast drooping); it must be combined with a Breast Lift for this purpose.
• The size of the implant that can be used is limited by the patient’s anatomy, including the size of the existing breasts, skin quality, and dimensions of the thorax. Realistic expectations regarding size should be discussed with the surgeon.
• Implants are not guaranteed to last forever. While there is no mandatory time limit for replacement, implants typically carry a manufacturer’s warranty, often for 10 years. Patients must continue with annual breast health check-ups (ultrasound or mammogram, depending on age).

Possible Non-Surgical Alternative Treatments

For an increase in breast volume, surgical breast augmentation is currently the only reliably safe and effective option.

Risks Associated with Breast Augmentation Surgery

While this surgery is generally considered safe, as with any surgical procedure, it carries potential risks:

• General Surgical Risks: Risks associated with anesthesia, bleeding, seroma (fluid accumulation), infection, persistent pain or altered sensation, and altered scarring.
• Implant-Specific Risks:
  • Capsular Contracture: Scar tissue tightening around the implant, which can lead to firmness or distortion.
  • Implant leakage or rupture.
  • Wrinkling of the skin surrounding the implant.
  • Malposition of the implant.
  • Possibility of needing a second or revision surgery.
  • Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL): A rare but serious type of lymphoma associated with the presence of breast implants, which is generally more often linked to highly textured implants.

It is important to remember that factors like pregnancy, weight fluctuation, and menopause can change the initial surgical result over time. Revision surgery may be required on one or both breasts during a patient’s lifetime. Regular examinations are necessary for general breast health and to evaluate the condition of the implants.

Preparation for Surgery

Prior to all surgeries, we require a series of pre-operative screenings, including blood work and a cardiological evaluation, to assess overall health and address potential issues that could affect safety during the procedure.
Depending on the case, we may also require a specific imaging study of the breasts, such as an ultrasound or mammogram.

Recovery from Breast Augmentation

Following Breast Augmentation Surgery, patients are typically released into the care of a friend or family member after fully recovering from sedation. Post-operative instructions generally include 2 weeks without lifting or strenuous activity.
Initial swelling and fullness in the upper breast are normal as the implants begin to settle. While improvement is noticeable within the first few weeks, it can take up to three months for the implants to fully settle into their final position.

The eláen Experience: Where Do I Start?

1. STEP 1 | Initial Contact with eláen Plastic Surgery Center
2. STEP 2 | Online Consultation
3. STEP 3 | Preparation for Breast Augmentation Mexico
4. STEP 4 | Breast Implant Surgery
5. STEP 5 | eláen Plastic Surgery Center Aftercare Program

Our Commitment to You

Are you interested in having plastic surgery in Mexico? At eláen Plastic Surgery Center, we provide a caring atmosphere. After your initial consultation and evaluation, you’ll receive personalized surgical recommendations tailored to your cosmetic needs. We believe in the importance of having well-informed patients and will take the time to explain all your breast augmentation options and procedural details so that you feel comfortable with your decision.

Individual surgical results may vary. Results are not guaranteed. Outcomes are dependent on individual anatomy and adherence to post-operative care.