.: Breast Augmentation

Today breast augmentation is one of the most popular procedures we perform in our office surgery suite. Typically we perform 2 or 3 augmentations every week, which not only keeps our skills sharp, but gives us the opportunity to truly develop our own style and preference. This procedure generally yields very predictable results, which helps ensure patient satisfaction.

To increase the size of a woman's breasts, we place breast “implants” into the chest tissues. Therefore we first need an incision in which to work through and a pocket in which to place the implant. The saline filled implants today are generally inflatable like a balloon, so we can use small incisions to place a large implant and “inflate” it after it is in the position that we desire. However, the pocket must be created so that the inflated implant will fit.

One decision we have to make in each case is where the incision site is placed. A fine line scar is produced and the choices are as follows.

a. Through the areola (although, some feel that this damages the ducts for breast feeding.)

b. In the crease under the armpit (most breast tissue can be avoided with this incision site)

c. Very close to the nipple

d. Through the naval (a newer technique)

e. Under the breast itself (one of the older techniques)

When you come in for your consultation we can discuss further aspects of each approach. The photos on our site show some of our real-life patients, and you may want to peruse these to see how discreet we can make your scars.

Another decision that also needs to be made is whether to place the implant above the muscle or under the muscle. The “muscle” we are talking about is the pectoralis major muscle under the breast and on the chest wall. (The other term used is submuscular for under the muscle and subglandular for over the muscle.)

Here again each position has its advantage and disadvantage. I believe for example that the above the muscle position sags more quickly, yet is not as painful the night after surgery. These details will have to be discussed at length during your consultation. There are many other details about above the muscle and below the muscle techniques that we can explain during your consultation.

Finally, we must work together to determine an appropriate size -- how much to enlarge your breast. This can get tricky and we have developed a sizing technique in our office in which we have found 96% complete satisfaction rate for size considerations. There may be limitations on size depending on your individual anatomy.

Breast augmentation is an art and a craft developed over years with many factors to consider. The most important factor, that I make my priority is to make my patient happy with the result. I have found over the years that the happiest patients are the ones who understand what this art form is about and what its limitations are. During your consultation, we seek to educate you and bring you into the decision-making process, which I believe will lead to a decision you will not regret.

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.: Breast Lift

Childbirth, nursing, and aging can cause the breasts to sag over time, changing the shape and contour of the breast. This fact leads many woman to seek breast lift (technically known as mastopexy). There are many variations of mastopexy which may be chosen. One thing that all of these procedures have in common is that there is resulting scar on the breast. This may be only mildly perceptible or may more noticeable. Be sure to discuss your concerns about scarring with Dr. Pasquale.

The decision for breast reshaping will depend on the type and extent of change you are looking for. Some women choose to combine breast augmentation and breast lift to restore youthful volume and contour at the same time.

Dr. Pasquale uses many techniques for reshaping the breast. Your desired outcome, your shape, concerns about scarring, and individual anatomy will all be considered. Some of the women pictured on this site are real breast lift patients of Dr. Pasquale. Although you are not guaranteed to have results identical to theirs, the photos should help give you a realistic idea of what breast lift results can look like.

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.: Breast Reduction

Women with large, heavy breasts often experience physical discomfort in the back, neck, or shoulders. In addition, large breasts make some women feel insecure. They may avoid exercise and fitted clothing because of their breast size. Breast reduction surgery can help combat the problems often associated with large breasts.

Breast reduction surgery typically requires an anchor-shaped incision. Excess fat, skin, and tissue are removed, and the breast is sculpted into a smaller, more attractive shape. The exact technique may vary depending on your specific anatomy and goals.

Breast reduction surgery can be a very rewarding and liberating procedure. Dr. Pasquale's breast reduction patients report a very high level of satisfaction with their results. If you are interested in learning more about breast reduction surgery, please contact Dr. Pasquale.

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