Breast Augmentation- The Most Common Procedure!

In 2009, according to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, breast augmentation became the single most common cosmetic surgical procedure that we perform in the United States.  This is still true as of 2012.  What is amazing is that it surpassed liposuction.  As a patient, there are a number of things that I think you can glean from this information.

First, it is very common!  Many millions of women get this procedure everyday in this country.  In my practice, this is the most common surgery that I perform.

Second, it is safe.  If this was not safe, we would not be doing as many.  This is true from the standpoint of implant safety concerns (gummy bear implants), anesthesia related problems (virtually none), and post operative pain management concerns.  Patients will tell me that they feels comfortable enough after surgery that they often will go out to dinner with their loved ones the same night of the surgery!

Third, patients love this procedure.  In so many instances, I have seen this procedure positively change a woman's whole personality.  My patients will tell me that it makes them feel confident socially and professionally, and even at home!  This is truly the most amazing and gratifying aspect of this procedure for me as a surgeon.    

The dreaded split ear lobe

This is a common problem that I treat for many patients in our area.  Although this is a common problem, it is a difficult one nonetheless.  The case below demonstrates a patient whose ear lobe not only ripped, but also at some point became infected.  We can correct this in an office setting with just local anesthesia, but the key component is to allow the infectious process to clear up first.  Often, I will re-pierce these earlobes for the patients about 6-8 weeks later.  My general recommendation is to wear only light earrings (studs) after these repairs.  The integrity of the lobe and strength of the tissue is weakened after these types of tears, so heavy earrings can potentially re-create the same problem.