For many women, the size of the breasts can have a dramatic effect on their social and psychological well-being. This is because many women compare themselves to a culturally based concept of normality, and it can be psychologically distressing to feel too distanced from any particular social standard of physical beauty. Fortunately, with the many advances in cosmetic procedures, breast size can be enhanced, decreased or breasts can even be lifted to better fit the proportions of the woman's body. Dr. Boss has helped many women who have had marked improvement in their self esteem after cosmetic surgery has brought them closer to their personal standard of beauty.

Are you a good candidate?
The best candidates for breast enhancement surgery are healthy, adult women who desire to change their body shape but who also have realistic expectations about the results of the surgery they are contemplating. It is important to remember that breast enhancement procedures result in improvement, not perfection. Perfect symmetry of the breast is not always possible. Most women have slightly asymmetrical breasts and should expect some degree of asymmetry after breast surgery.

At the time of the consultation, Dr. Boss will assess your individual needs to determine if cosmetic breast surgery is in your best interest and, if so, which technique is most appropriate for your needs. Several different methods are used for placement of implants, but in all cases Dr. Boss uses the minimal incision technique to minimize scarring. In the case of augmentation surgery, Dr. Boss may deem it appropriate for you to "try on" different size implants by wearing a special type of bra to help you determine what size best fits your expectations and goals. There are a variety of implant designs, all of which have advantages and disadvantages that Dr. Boss will discuss with you. Of course, you will be able to view photographs of others who have chosen to undergo the procedure.

How safe is it?
While breast surgery is an extremely popular cosmetic procedure for women, it involves some risk like any surgery. Breast augmentation is performed using FDA approved, saline filled implants. Recent studies have shown breast implants to be safe, and Dr. Boss feels that saline filled implants are proven and effective.

What is minimal incision or Endoscopic breast augmentation?
Dr. Boss prefers the minimal incision breast augmentation technique. This is usually performed under outpatient basis under general or local anesthesia. The surgery consists of lifting the breast tissue and placing a soft natural feeling implant underneath. He has designed this approach to minimize scarring so that the incisions are not easily noticeable. After the incision is made, the implant is carefully inserted under the breast tissue or the chest muscle. Dr. Boss then just adjusts the implant to ideal size and symmetry before the incision is closed. Dr. Boss has also been a leader in using the endoscope for breast augmentation. People throughout the country have sought Dr. Boss to place implants because of the smaller incisions needed while using the endoscope. Dr. Boss will be able to determine if the endoscopic Breast Augmentation is best for you.

What is Mastopexy? (breast lift)
Many women who have been dissatisfied with loose, heavy, or drooping breasts have benefited from breast lifts. It is not uncommon to have this surgery done in combination with minimum incision breast augmentation. To correct the various degrees of sagging, Dr. Boss removes excess skin from around the nipple and the bottom of the breast and then manipulates the skin to tighten the drooping area. At the same time, Dr. Boss raises the nipple to a higher position. If the breasts are large and heavy, Dr. Boss can also remove excess breast tissue while reshaping the breasts. Of course, as in all of Dr. Boss's cosmetic procedures, special techniques are employed to minimize scarring.

What is recovery like?
A surgical dressing is usually placed to protect the incisions. Rest is usually advised for the first few days. Some swelling, bruising and minor discomfort may be experienced. Depending on the type of breast surgery, you may be required to wear a special kind of supportive bra. Pain medication and antibiotics may be prescribed. Most of the symptoms subside in a short time. Sutures are removed within one to two weeks. Most people return to work within 7 - 10 days. While light activities can be resumed within a few days, routine physical activity and exercise should be avoided for few weeks. Dr. Boss will advise you when you can resume normal activity. Following your procedure, it will take a few weeks before you begin to see your new shape.