Breast augmentation surgery is the most commonly performed cosmetic procedure in the United States. It is performed on women who are seeking a fuller figure or who have lost weight or had body proportion changes following pregnancy.  Implants may also be used for breast reconstruction. Successful breast augmentation surgery depends on the safety and reliability of the breast implant; there are a variety of safe implant choices on the market today.

Breast implants routinely used by Dr. Khalifeh include the Mentor and the Allergan Natrelle™ Implant Styles, both FDA approved. The variety of implant styles will be discussed during your consultation with Dr. Khalifeh at either his Frederick, Maryland or Chevy Chase, Maryland location. There are two basic types of implants, the silicone implant and the saline implant. These can be further divided into two categories based on texture. There are two shapes as well: tear drop shaped (anatomical) and round. Surgeons prefer the round implant because there is less risk of a misshapen breast if the implant shifts.  In the standing position, all implants take on a tear-shape due to gravity. Breast implants are also categorized by profile, or forward projection: low, medium and high. The profile is a function of the breast diameter of the patient along with the desired final cup size.

As an example of the different implant options, let’s say you would prefer a saline implant.  You might choose a round saline breast implant, which is the most popular saline implant used for augmentation.  Saline implants are made of a silicone rubber outer shell filled with a saline solution. Your body type determines the size or the dimensions of the base of the implant. If you have a small frame, an implant with a moderate profile may extend too far into the underarm region and the cleavage area. A medium or high profile implant will provide the desired cup size that is not too wide for a narrow frame. Broad shouldered women need a low or medium profile.  Smooth implants are most popular. Textured implants have been said to help prevent a rare complication called capsular contracture, but there is no consensus on this at this time.  The textured implant may be felt under the skin.  An interesting variation on implants is the Spectrum®, a Mentor saline breast implant that can be adjusted for up to six months after implantation to get the exact size of breasts that you want.

Silicone implants also come in various shapes, sizes and textures; Dr. Khalifeh will be happy to discuss all of your options.  His ultimate goal is your satisfaction.  Augmentation surgery takes place in Dr. Khalifeh’s accredited surgical center in Chevy Chase under general or twilight sedation.  If the Sibley Memorial Hospital in Washington, D.C. is more convenient, Dr. Khalifeh holds privileges there as well.  Dr. Khalifeh specializes in minimal incisions and producing a natural shape. The saline implant may be inserted into the body empty and rolled up; the incision for this may be quite small. The incision location varies from patient to patient. Silicone implants may be inserted through an incision placed in the inframammary fold at the natural boundary of the breast with the chest wall, around the areola (periareolar), or in the armpit (axillary).  The incision for the saline implant may be at each of these sites as well as in the naval (TUBA or transumbilical breast augmentation).

Breast augmentation surgery lasts one to two hours and an overnight stay is not necessary. It is best to take at least three days off work. The recovery time is one week and stitches are removed at that time. Another two weeks are necessary before strenuous activity may be resumed. Possible but rare complications include bleeding, infection, implant rupture, capsular contracture and risks associated with anesthesia.

Call to schedule a consultation with Dr. Khalifeh today at (301) 244-0148.