Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure to enhance the size and shape of a woman's breasts for a number of reasons:

• To enhance the body contour of a woman who, for personal reasons, feels her breast size is too small.
• To correct a reduction of breast volume after pregnancy.
• To bring balance to breasts of unmatched size.
• As a reconstructive technique following breast surgery.

By inserting breast implants behind each breast, plastic surgeon Dr. Wang can increase a woman's bust line by one or more bra cup sizes. Dr. Wang has helped many satisfied breast augmentation patients over the years. Read what former patients are saying about their experience with the caring staff at Wang Plastic Surgery.

If you're ready to discuss your breast enhancement options, now is a great time to schedule a breast augmentation consultation with Dr. Wang at our plastic surgery offices, serving Southern California including Pasadena, Rancho Cucamonga, Glendora, Chino Hills, Arcadia and Upland. Simply request a consultation online or call Wang Plastic Surgery at (888) 360-6688 today to schedule your appointment.

Women who feel their breasts are too small, who have one breast that is larger than the other or whose breasts have become smaller or less firm after childbirth or weight loss are all great candidates for breast augmentation. You must be in good health with no serious medical conditions, and have realistic expectations about what an augmentation can accomplish.

There are two types of breast implants Inland Empire and Pasadena women can choose - saline or silicone gel. Saline implants are commonly available and offer a natural, pleasing look. Silicone gel implants have recently become available to the general public thanks to an FDA decision to re-approve these popular implants in this country (Read Dr. Wang's press release about the approval of silicone implants). Silicone implants have advantages over saline (salt water) implants, such as they look more like natural breasts and generate none of the complaints of rippling or balloon-like appearance sometimes associated with their saline counterparts. At your consultation, Dr. Wang can help you determine which implant is best for you.

To help manage and minimize discomfort after surgery, Dr. Wang offers his patients the On-Q PainBuster® Post-Op Pain Relief System. This system consists of a small balloon that pumps anesthetic directly to the surgical site through a tiny tube. Benefits of the On-Q system include:

• Automatic and continuous pain management for up to 5 days
• Reduced potential for breakthrough pain and need for narcotics
• Compact size for discreet and comfortable use
• Simple removal once all medication has been delivered

With the ON-Q system, you can get back on your feet quickly and enjoy all life has to offer.

What are the benefits of an Inland Empire breast augmentation?

In terms of physical enhancement, breast augmentation improves the volume, shape and beauty of a woman's breasts. It is often used to correct the imbalance in breasts that are disproportionate in size. When combined with a breast lift, a breast augmentation can also correct the sagging that often occurs after childbirth or weight loss.

Breast augmentation can mean so much more than just physical changes. A new study by a nurse researcher at the University of Florida demonstrates what most breast augmentation patients have discovered firsthand: ample, curvaceous breasts can have a profound impact on their lives. In a study of 84 patients, the College of Nursing assistant professor discovered that gains in self-esteem and sexual satisfaction were reported by the majority following breast augmentation surgery. Read more about the study from the story, Is bigger better? Breast surgery linked to boost in self-esteem and sexuality.

How is a breast augmentation performed?

Dr. Wang believes it is important for a surgeon to take time to get to know each patient's unique circumstances before determining which procedural methods would best achieve the results that patient desires. There simply is no single, cookie-cutter approach that works best for every patient. To better understand some of the procedural choices that you and Dr. Wang will determine together, please read our page Tailoring Breast Augmentation to the Individual Patient.

Once these important preoperative decisions have been made and you arrive for your augmentation, you will be put under general anesthesia for your comfort and safety. Dr. Wang will make a small incision in one of four places — the crease beneath the breast, around the areola, under the armpit or inside the bellybutton. He will make very effort to place the incision in an inconspicuous location.

Reaching through the tiny incision, Dr. Wang will gently lift the skin and breast tissue to create a pocket in which to place each implant. The implants will be inserted either directly behind the breast tissue or beneath the muscle of the chest wall. Once the careful placement of each implant is complete, both incisions are stitched shut and a gauze bandage applied to assist the body's healing processes.

What is the TUBA method?

The acronym "TUBA" stands for "trans-umbilical breast augmentation." It refers to the method which uses an incision site at the very edge of the belly button. In this procedure, Dr. Wang makes a narrow pathway to the breast under your abdominal skin, then centers the implant under your nipple.

The most obvious advantage of the TUBA procedure is a tiny scar that's well hidden away from the breast. Other positives include the potential for a shorter surgery time and minimal damage to normal breast tissues. However, TUBA breast enhancement isn't for everyone. When you come in for your consultation, Dr. Wang will discuss all options with you.

How long does a breast augmentation take?

Breast augmentations generally require one to two hours of surgery.

What can I expect after my Pasadena breast enhancement?

You may experience soreness and fatigue for a few days after your surgery, but this usually lasts only 24 to 48 hours. You will experience scarring — firm and pink — for at least six weeks. Though they may remain for several months or get wider, these scars will fade with time. Swelling in your breasts may last three to five weeks. Occasionally, patients experience a burning sensation in the nipples which subsides as quickly as the bruising fades. Stitches will be removed in a week to 10 days, but swelling in your breasts may require three to five weeks to subside.

What is the recovery period like?

Stitches will be removed in a week to 10 days. If you have been required to wear gauze dressings, they will be removed and Dr. Wang may ask that you wear a surgical bra. You should continue any routinely scheduled mammograms, however, be sure the technician performs Ecklund scans for a more reliable reading. For more recovery information, please read Dr. Wang's advice about recovery from surgery.

How long before I can return to normal activity?

Most of our patients will return to work in a week, depending on the level of activity their job requires. It is important to follow Dr. Wang's instructions for resuming exercise and normal activities. You may want to avoid physical contact for two to three weeks, since your breasts are likely to be sensitive to direct stimulation. When your breasts are no longer sore, direct contact is fine.

The information about Breast Augmentation and Breast Implants is provided for women considering breast augmentation in Pasadena or the Inland Empire courtesy of Dr. Stewart Wang, board-certified plastic surgeon.

Believe it or not, it is possible to have the shapely breasts you've always wanted without scars. Dr. Wang is now offering breast augmentation procedures using TUBA incisions. TUBA, or trans-umbilical, incisions, also known as belly-button or navel incisions, are made at the very edge of the navel. Dr. Wang then creates a pathway to the breast under the skin, makes a pocket and inserts a breast implant.