Mastopexy
Tuberous breasts are a congenital abnormality, meaning they are present from birth. In this condition, the glandular tissues in the chest do not develop as they should, resulting in abnormally shaped breasts. For men, a lack of tissue undermines the chest muscles. For women, this can lead to having misshapen or underdeveloped breasts.
Tuberous breasts are more complicated than underdeveloped small breasts. This condition presents in many different ways including breast base constriction, decreased breast volume, ptosis, breast skin deficiency, inframammary fold malposition, and areolar herniation. People may experience any range of these characteristics and turn to plastic surgery in New York to correct them.
What is Tuberous Breast Correction?
A tuberous breast correction can improve the shape of the chest and help patients to achieve their desired look. Patients often notice the abnormality as puberty hits, so it is essential to wait for any natural development to occur before considering surgery. The best candidates for surgery are healthy, non-smokers who understand the process and have realistic expectations.
The procedure is highly individualized and will be specific to the patient’s anatomy and their tuberous breasts’ characteristics. The surgery most often incorporates breast implants or fat transfer. However, a breast augmentation alone does not address the complicated breast reshaping and areolar balancing required in tuberous breast correction.
The Procedure
Dr. Maman will discuss your goals, questions, and procedure in great detail during your consultation and preoperative appointments. He will conduct a physical examination during your initial visit and will address your medical and surgical history to have a comprehensive understanding of your case. Dr. Maman will discuss with you your individual treatment plan and identify realistic and reasonable goals. Although implants and fat transfers are commonly used in tuberous breast correction, they are often used in conjunction with other procedures to achieve the desired aesthetic.
Implants
Breast implants are a direct way to recreate the natural mound of the breast. Some treatments require the use of a tissue expander, which stretches the skin and muscle to accommodate the desired breast size. This technique might be necessary if you lost a significant amount of skin, muscle, or tissue during cancer treatment.
Patients can receive either silicone or saline-filled shells that Dr. Maman will insert into the breast pocket, most commonly underneath the pectoralis muscle. Both incorporate the surgical implantation of silicone shells that contain a saline solution of sterile water (saline implants) or a synthetic gel (silicone implants). There are small risks associated with silicone-based implants, as they would need to be quickly removed or replaced if any leakage occurs.
Patients tend to prefer silicone as they result in fewer surface variations and smoother outcomes. Saline-based implants, on the other hand, come in a wider variety of custom sizing. Some patients prefer this flexibility and the peace of mind that comes with a natural filling. The type of implant you receive is entirely up to you. Dr. Maman will help you decide what is best for your body and particular situation.
Fat Transfer
Another option for breast reconstruction is fat transfer. Dr. Maman will remove fat from one area of the body and transfer it to the breast pocket. Fat is usually sourced from the stomach or hips using liposuction. To make room for the new fat, patients will need to use an expanding device for several weeks before the surgery. Fat transfers are an excellent option for those looking for plastic surgery in New York with a modest or localized improvement.
It is important to note that the expansion process before surgery does take time. You will need to use an expansion system, which consists of suction cups that sit on your breasts for three to five weeks, increasing in use frequency as you near the operation. The week before surgery, patients will wear these cups throughout the entire day, removing them only when showering. Patients must also use the system for up to three months after the procedure. The suction cups expand the tissue and also increase the body’s blood flow.
During the procedure, you will receive general anesthesia so that you do not feel any pain. Dr. Maman will make incisions that are specific to your surgery and situation. Most likely, they will be placed under the breasts and/or around the nipple. These incisions will form a minor scar, but any marks will be hidden in either natural curves of the body or be hidden by clothing and minimized with the proper post-procedure protocol.
Results and Recovery
You will notice a marked difference immediately. It will take some time for the swelling to diminish and the implants to settle into their final position. Dr. Maman will help you heal as quickly as possible and have an optional experience of plastic surgery in New York. Bandages, compression with a surgical bra, and necessary medication will all help for a smooth recovery. Dr. Maman will work with you to ensure a successful recovery period with follow-up appointments as needed. You will be provided with all postoperative care instructions to promote healing. Most patients will start to feel better and active within one week, but the total recovery time takes an average of four to six weeks.
Although breast implants can last a long time, they eventually may need to be replaced for a variety of reasons such as age and related changes to the skin. It is also important to regularly check your implants to ensure there are no complications, including regular imaging for those with silicone-filled implants. If you received a fat transfer, the fat may not survive in its new home, risking reabsorption into the body or hardening. As a result, the breast may revert to a smaller size over time.
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1100 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10128
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