Small Breasts

Many women desire a full figure with larger breasts. They may have small breasts to begin with or they may have lost volume over time after changes in weight and pregnancy.

During your consultation, we perform a thorough examination of your breasts. We take note of their size and shape, the position of your nipples, the quality of your skin and the amount of breast tissue you have. We measure all breast dimensions. We have implants available to help give you an idea of the possible result. They are a guide only.

After analyzing your breasts and from what you have told us during the consultation, we determine the best possible operation. A breast augmentation is ideal for breasts with centrally positioned nipples. Sometimes a breast lift is required if the nipples are low and need repositioning.

Once we have agreed on the best procedure, we will discuss the possible surgical incisions, where the implants may be placed, and the type of implants available along with the advantages and disadvantages of each option.

Breast Implants may be inserted through incisions under the breast, through the areola, and in the underarm region.

Under the breast (Inframammary fold): This incision is located under the breast within the breast fold. It allows for excellent access and precise positioning of the implants. No scars are generally visible on the breasts themselves.

Peri areolar: This incision is located on the lower curve of the areola. The scar usually heals well and is generally not visible. For this incision to be used, the areola must have a large diameter, especially if you choose silicone gel implants. There is always a risk of reduced nipple sensation and areolar distortion with this technique.

Underarm (axilla): This incision is located in the armpit (axilla). Although there are no scars on the breasts, the scars may be visible in the axillae. Precise positioning of the implants is more difficult through this incision because the access is limited.

Breast implants may be placed behind the pectoralis major muscle or behind the breast, in front of the muscle. The best placement depends on your anatomy, breast tissue thickness, level of physical activity and the type of implant you select. We will discuss the pros and cons of each with you.

At Incognito MD Medispa and the  Gatineau Cosmetic Surgery Clinique, we offer all types of breast implants which are currently available in Canada. The two main types are saline-filled implants and silicone gel implants. All are made with a silicone rubber shell. The new generation of silicone gel implants are fully approved by Health Canada and the FDA. We will explain the advantages and disadvantages of each type of implant including the risk of capsule formation, rupture, fold formation, etc. You will have an opportunity to see and touch the various implants to help choose what is right for you.

The risks of breast augmentation include capsular contracture, scars, infection, bleeding, breast asymmetry, loss of nipple feeling, implant rupture or deflation, implant displacement and malposition implant fold formation/rippling, implant palpability, breast lumps, the possibility of other operations in the future, etc. There is no guarantee for brassiere size and more complications occur when oversized implants are used (stretching/thinning of the breast skin over time, greater chance of breast sagging/bottoming out, higher chance of requiring a breast lift/mastopexy, more likely to see and feel the implant, etc.) There may be some impact on the ability to breast feed depending on the incisions used.  There is no increased risk for breast cancer and you will be able to continue self breast examinations following the operation. Mammograms are permitted and the implants do not delay the diagnosis of breast cancer.

In recent years, an uncommon type of lymphoma ((BIA-ALCL=Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma) has been diagnosed in women having textured breast implants.  The lifetime risk ranges from 1:1000 to 1:30,000.  Your surgeon will discuss BIA-ALCL with you.  For more information please visit www.plasticsurgery.org/alcl.

Please visit the following website for examples of this operation: http://www.surgery.org/public/photos/breast_augmentation