Dr. Arslanian is one of the ONLY surgeons in Atlanta performing the “No Breast Scar” Augmentation technique. In this technique, Dr. Arslanian is able to place your breast implants through a small scar hidden in the armpit, or axilla. This specialized technique requires special video and endoscopic equipment, and requires training that many plastic surgeons do not want to bother with. The obvious advantage is a breast augmentation with the same results but with NO SCAR ON THE BREAST. Even though scars tend to heal well on the breast, they are often the tell tale sign of a augmented breast. Most women in the Atlanta area are looking for a sexier but still natural look. The only way to really achieve a natural look is to move the scar off the breast.
Who is a candidate?
The ideal candidate is one in good health without significant medical problems. They should be have reasonable expectations of outcome and understand the potential risks and complications that may occur. Women who have not had children, and those that are done having children are both excellent candidates if they understand the nuances of their individual situation.
Consultation
During your consultation, you will meet with Dr. Arslanian and his staff and have the opportunity to discuss your individual situation as well as your concerns and aesthetic goals. Dr. Arslanian will will take detailed measurements of your breast and body and perform a complete examination. Photos will be taken to help Dr. Arslanian point out certain things and explain his approach to breast augmentation. If you are deemed a good candidate for endoscopic breast augmentation, he will discuss the technique with you and demonstrate where the scar will be positioned. He will also show you photos of other patients before and afters to help determine what size and look you are trying to achieve. After answering all your questions, you will then sit down with the surgical coordinator to discuss timing, pricing, and any other questions you might have.
Preparation
Prior to surgery you will be given instructions on the day, time and location of your procedure. You will be given your prescriptions that Dr. Arslanian prescribes, and all of your paperwork including consent forms will be signed. In some cases you may need to obtain medical clearance from your physician or specialist, and possibly meet with the anesthesiologist and undergo additional lab work depending on your medical issues and personal situation.
Procedure
The procedure will be performed as an outpatient in an accredited surgery center with a board certified anesthesiologist in the safest conditions possible. The surgery will be performed under general anesthesia. Pre-operative markings will typically be made the morning of surgery.
After you are asleep, Dr. Arslanian will start by making his incision in the underarm. He will then create a pocket for the implant under the muscle using the specialized endoscopic equipment. The appropriate size implant will then be placed using a “NO TOUCH” Technique and a Keller Funnel. This helps to prevent implant contamination and allows for the smallest scar possible. Once the implants are properly positioned, the incisions are closed with sutures, dressings are applied and you will be awakened from anesthesia. You may be placed into a surgical garment and instructions on use will be given.
Recovery
There will be some expected post-operative pain that typically resolves within a few days to a week, which you will be given pain medication for.
You will go home the same day of surgery and rest. Over the course of the first week you will begin range of motion exercises to keep your arms and shoulders from tightening up. Dr. Arslanian will also go over breast implant massage to help prevent early capsular contracture. You will follow up within the first week at which point dressings will removed and any sutures that were placed on the skin. You will be given instructions on wearing your garment and increasing activity. Most people can be back to work within 3-7 days depending on if they work at a desk or have a more labor intensive occupation. By 2 weeks most patients are almost back to normal. You will then be able to start increasing activity, excising and start lifting heavier weight. We do not allow any heavy lifting, bench press or pushups until AT LEAST 6 WEEKS, to allow the muscle to fully heal.
Results
Patients can expect their implants to “settle” over the course of 3-6 weeks, and some may take 3 months. Final results are usually seen at the 3-6 month mark, but sometimes it may take an entire year for the breasts to settle to their new shape and position.
Price
The cost of your endoscopic breast augmentation will vary depending on the extent of your individual case and whether you choose to add any additional procedures. Since this is a specialized technique, the cost of the procedure may be more expensive than a standard breast lift procedure. We would be more than happy to give you a detailed customized quote when you schedule a consultation with Dr. Arslanian.