Breast
Breast Augmentation (Augmentation Mammaplasty)
One of the most frequently performed cosmetic surgery procedures in the U.S., breast augmentation can give women with small or unevenly sized breasts a fuller, firmer, better-proportioned look through the placement of implants in the breast. Women may elect to undergo breast augmentation for many different medical and aesthetic motivations, including balancing breast size and compensating for reduced breast mass after pregnancy or surgery. The procedure may be combined with others such as a breast lift for more satisfying results. Read More >>
Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
In either case, the deflated look or excess skin in the breast area can be disconcerting to the individual, who may desire aesthetic improvement. Dr. Fontana frequently performs breast augmentation in conjunction with a breast lift to help provide for enhanced breast projection and overall improved breast shape and aesthetics.
The breast lift operation is performed under general anesthesia or heavy sedation combined with a local anesthetic. The skin below the breast is generally removed to excise excess skin from the area. The nipple is then moved higher up on the breast to better situate it in relation to the new breast positioning. The skin above the breast is pulled around to create a swell and to tighten the remaining area of skin around the glands and fatty tissue of the breast for a more youthful appearance. The areolas can also be resized if necessary.
The full recovery time of this procedure is usually around a month, but patients can generally return to desk jobs within 10 to 14 days. A supportive bra must be worn everyday for the full recovery period to ensure proper healing. Pain medication is prescribed for the week following surgery, as well as antibiotics to reduce the likelihood of infection. Although scarring is likely, most of the scars associated with breast lift surgery are readily hidden by a normal bra. These scars will fade over time to become almost invisible to the naked eye.
Breast Reduction
Women who undergo breast reduction are among the most satisfied and pleased patients who undertake plastic surgery. Many women seek treatment to reduce the painful effects of their large breasts, while also improving their self-confidence and overall quality of life. Breast reduction surgery reduces the size of large, disproportionate breasts by removing excess fat, tissue and skin for a more desirable appearance and relief of physical and emotional symptoms.
Dr. Fontana utilizes a breast reduction technique that safely reduces the size of each breast and allows for breast shaping producing superior aesthetic results compared with traditional breast reduction procedures. Dr. Fontana devotes extensive time to patient evaluation and pays meticulous attention to the breast measurements of each patient to ensure that every patient receives a custom breast reduction based on their breast shape and individual goals. During the breast reduction procedure, Dr. Fontana makes incisions around the nipple and beneath each breast. Excess skin, fat and glandular tissue is then removed. Dr. Fontana then shapes the remaining glandular tissue to contour the breast providing an for a projected and aesthetically pleasing result.
The results of a breast reduction are visible right away and will continue to improve as swelling and bruising subside. Most patients report immediate satisfaction as the reduced breast weight after surgery Scars will continue to fade over time, becoming less and less noticeable.
Breast Reconstruction
Modern surgical technology makes it possible to construct a natural-looking breast after mastectomy (breast removal) for cancer or other diseases. The procedure is commonly begun and sometimes completed immediately following mastectomy, so that the patient wakes with a new breast mound. Alternatively, reconstruction may begin years after mastectomy. There are several ways to reconstruct the breast, both with and without implants; Dr. Fontana will work together with you in deciding which is best for you. Breast reconstruction does not affect the recurrence of cancer, does not cause any other diseases, and does not affect chemotherapy or radiation treatment.
Male Breast Reduction
Although rarely discussed, enlarged male breasts is a common condition. Gynecomastia affects approximately 40 to 60 percent of men. There is often no known cause for gynecomastia, although there has been some correlation with various drugs or medical conditions.
Men who feel self-conscious about their appearance are helped with breast reduction surgery. The procedure removes fat and/or glandular tissue from the breasts, and in extreme cases removes excess skin, resulting in a contoured chest that is flatter and firmer. Dr. Fontana routinely utilizes less invasive procedures including ultrasound assisted liposuction to reduce and contour breast shape in men.