DEFINITION :
Mammary hypoplasia is defined as a breast volume which is insufficiently developed in proportion to the patient’s morphology. It can be a pre-existing condition (small breasts from puberty) or appear later, after substantial weight-loss, a pregnancy followed by breast-feeding, or hormonal problems.
It can occur alone or be associated with ptosis, that is sagging of the breasts and skin stretching and a lowered areola.
The procedure can be carried out at any age above 18.
NEW GENERATION PRE-FILLED SILICONE GEL IMPLANTS
The great majority of implants used currently in France and elsewhere in the world are pre-filled silicone gel implants.
They are made of soft silicone gel inside a strong impermeable envelope of silicone rubber which can be rough or smooth.
In addition to the classic round implants, anatomic ‘teardrop’ shapes which can be higher, wider or more pointed.
This diversity of shape, associated with a range of volumes means that the choice of implant can be tailored to the figure and the expectations of the patient.
BEFORE THE SURGERY
- A thorough preoperative examination with blood tests will be carried out.
- An anesthesiologist will see you in consultation before the operation.
- A preoperative medical imagery examination is prescribed, (mammography, echography).
- Smoking cessation is strongly recommended
- No aspirin-based medication should be taken during the 10 days preceding the operation.
TYPE OF ANAESTHESIA AND HOSPITAL STAY
Type of anaesthesia:
This is general anaesthesia, during which you sleep completely.
Hospital stay:
Usually is required a hospitalization of one to two days.
L’INTERVENTION
THE PROCEDURE
The incisions
There are several possible approaches:
• Peri-areolar approach : the incision is below the circumference of the nipple.
• Axillary approach
The implant is inserted through a small incision situated in the armpit (3),
• The inframammary approach : the incision is in the inframammary fold (4).
The position of the implant
Two placements are possible:
– Pre-muscular: in this case, the prostheses are directly put behind the gland, on the front of the pectoral muscles.
– Retro-muscular: in this case, the prostheses are positioned more deeply, at the back of the pectoral muscles.
The choice of position will have been determined in consultation with the surgeon.
AFTER THE OPERATION
There can be pain for the first few days after the procedure, particularly when the implant is large and placed behind the muscle. In this case pain medication of the strenth necessary to dull the pain, is prescribed for several days.
Swelling and bruising of the breasts, and difficulty in raising the arms are frequent immediately after surgery.
The original dressing is removed a few days after the procedure and is replaced by a lighter dressing, then a bra can be recommended to be worn night and day for a few weeks.
Five to 10 days convalescence is necessary before returning to work.
Patients are advised to wait for one to two months before practising any sports.
THE RESULT
Two or three months are needed to appreciate the final result.
This can be truly seen from two to three months after surgery, the time necessary for the breasts to become softer and for the implants to settle.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Pregnancy/breastfeeding
After having this procedure there is no problem regarding pregnancy either for the mother or the child, but it is advisa¬ble to wait for six month safter surgery.
Breastfeeding is still possible in most cases.
Life-span of the implants :
It should be noted however that the new generation implants are far more hardwearing and reliable. Starting from the 10th year, if a problem is detected, or the patient wishes to change their size or shape , the question can be raised.
Follow up
It is important to keep the appointments with your surgeon during the weeks and months following the operation.
A specific visit concerning the implants is advisable every two to three years.