Primary and Secondary Breast Augmentation

Breast enlargement with implants is considered to be the safest and most effective method of augmenting the breasts. Whether you are undergoing primary or secondary breast augmentation surgery, San Francisco plastic surgeon Kimberly Henry can help you choose the appropriate sized implant to create the desired amount of volume in your breasts. Dr. Henry employs use of the most effective breast augmentation techniques, resulting in natural looking results and a more comfortable recovery. We find that our breast augmentation patients are satisfied with the results of their procedure. However, women that have undergone the procedure will eventually require a secondary operation to replace worn implants.

Primary Breast Augmentation Surgery

Women that feel self-conscious about the size of their breasts and those that are over the age of 18 are good candidates for breast augmentation surgery. Breast augmentation surgery with implants is the only effective method of increasing the size of the breasts. Further, the cosmetic surgery procedure allows women to have input on what their results will look like. We encourage our breast augmentation patients to work closely with Dr. Henry to select an implant that will provide the shape that each individual patient desires.

Breast augmentation surgery involves the placement of implants through an incision made in the crease of the breast, around the nipple, in the armpit, or through the belly button. The implants add volume to the breasts and give them more shape. Once the implant is placed, the patient will retain the increased volume until the implant is surgically removed or ruptures. Breast implant manufacturers estimate that implants typically last for at least 10 years. Once the lifespan of the implant has expired, it will need to be removed and replaced with a new one.

Secondary Breast Augmentation Surgery

Secondary, or revision, breast implant surgery is performed when patients are unhappy with the results of their previous breast augmentation surgery or when the implant needs to be replaced. Patients may be unhappy with the results of their primary surgery for number of reasons, including:

• The implant is too large or too small
• The implant is not positioned properly and sits too high, too low, or too far to the left or right
• Asymmetry

San Francisco breast augmentation surgeon Kimberly Henry frequently performs breast implant revision surgery to correct cosmetic problems. In addition, the procedure is performed to replace worn implants. During breast implant revision surgery, we can replace:

• Deflated implants
• Leaking implants
• Implants affected by capsular contracture
• Implants that are rippling

During surgery, Dr. Henry will remove your old implant and remove any scar tissue that may have built up. At this point, Dr. Henry can tighten and lift the breast skin and close the incisions, or place new implants in the breasts. During your pre-operative consultation, you can discuss your cosmetic goals with Dr. Henry so we can develop a surgical plan that will help you feel comfortable and confident with your body.

Contact the practice of Dr. Kimberly Henry today to learn more about the primary and secondary breast augmentation procedures.