Beauty with care

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Breast

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Breast enhancement can be a fulfilling experience when undertaken with a skilled surgeon. It is crucial to collaborate with an experienced professional dedicated to achieving beautiful and healthy results tailored to you. Dr. Arakelyan is a renowned expert in both cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery, providing assistance to women seeking improvement from previous procedures with suboptimal outcomes. Our commitment is to deliver beautiful and naturally appealing breasts, addressing various enhancement needs.

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Breast Augmentation

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Experience a transformative surgical procedure designed to enhance the shape and fullness of your breasts through the use of implants. Breast enlargement stands as one of the most sought-after procedures at our practice. Dr. Arakelyan specializes in helping you attain the desired size and shape you've always envisioned or restoring your pre-childbirth breast size.

Are You an Ideal Candidate

for Breast Augmentation?

Breast enlargement may be a suitable option for individuals seeking to enhance the size, shape, and fullness of their breasts. An ideal candidate is typically:

• Over 18 years old
• Not pregnant or nursing
• In good physical and psychological health
• Not planning significant weight changes, such as massive weight loss or pregnancy
• Experiencing little or no sagging

Additionally, candidates should be able to tolerate general anesthesia, be non-smokers, and maintain realistic expectations regarding the outcomes of a breast augmentation procedure.

For those not fitting the criteria, alternative options may be considered. If sagging is the primary concern, a breast lift could be a viable solution. It's advisable to wait until after major body-changing events, such as significant weight loss or pregnancy, before considering breast augmentation. Our goal is to ensure that the chosen procedure aligns with each patient's individual circumstances and expectations.

Benefits Of A Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation offers several benefits, enhancing both physical proportions and self-esteem. As time passes, factors such as aging or pregnancy can lead to changes in the shape and tone of our breasts; however, a breast enlargement procedure can effectively restore both size and shape. This option is particularly beneficial for individuals seeking to address asymmetrical breasts.

Breast augmentation can be undertaken independently or in conjunction with other procedures like a breast lift, as part of a comprehensive mommy makeover, or alongside fat grafting to achieve the most favorable results

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FAQ

Can Breast Implants Cause Long-Term Pain?

In rare cases, breast implants can lead to discomfort years after surgery. Capsular contracture, where excessive scar tissue forms around the implant, is the most common cause. Fortunately, this is covered by the warranty within the first 10 years and occurs in less than 1% of cosmetic breast augmentations.

How Long Do Implants Last?

While breast implants do not have an expiration date, they are unlikely to last a lifetime. The rupture rate for current gummy bear implants is less than 10% at 10 years, but this figure increases significantly by thirty years. To optimize implant longevity, it's crucial to work closely with our surgeons and adhere to all postoperative instructions.

Fat Transfer for Breast Augmentation

Fat transfer involves using fat from an unwanted body area and injecting it into the breasts for augmentation. This option is suitable for those seeking a modest increase in breast size with a natural result. It can also be combined with implants to achieve additional volume while maintaining a natural appearance.

Insurance Coverage for Breast Implants

Cosmetic breast enhancement surgeries, such as augmentation or lift, are not covered by insurance. However, insurance may cover breast surgery in cases of previous breast cancer, ensuring symmetry in breast appearance after surgery on the affected breast.

Breastfeeding After Breast Augmentation

While breast augmentation can impact breastfeeding, it is generally still possible. Discussing your desire to breastfeed before surgery is crucial, as certain choices, like using an incision underneath the breast (IMF incision), can help preserve breastfeeding capabilities.

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Breast Reconstruction 

Facing a mastectomy or lumpectomy due to breast cancer can bring about concerns regarding the potential loss or deformity of the breast. However, advancements in breast reconstruction offer hope and positive outcomes for many patients.

At Gawley Plastic Surgery, we recognize the significance of enhancing self-image and a sense of wholeness as integral components of breast cancer treatment and recovery.

The Breast Reconstruction Process:

Breast reconstruction is a meticulously staged procedure that involves rebuilding the breast mound after mastectomy or at a later date based on the patient's individual circumstances. Dr. Arakelyan often utilize adjustable implants or tissue expanders placed under the skin and pectoral muscles during mastectomy. Following painless in-office expansions over 2-3 months, a second operation replaces the temporary expander with a soft permanent implant. Nipple and areola reconstruction, achieved through small in-office procedures and medical tattooing, completes the process.

Importantly, breast reconstruction is a safe surgical option that does not increase the risk of cancer recurrence or interfere with treatments like radiation or chemotherapy. For many women, it plays a vital role in recovery, alleviating the emotional impact and sense of loss, and fostering hope, self-esteem, and a positive outlook.

Breast Reconstruction Options:

• Implant Reconstruction:some text
  • Offers excellent results with minimal downtime and risk.
• Tissue Expander and Implant Reconstruction:some text
  • Ideal for patients with specific situations and cancer treatments.
  • "Autologous" reconstruction may use the patient's abdominal or back tissue.
• Mastectomy & Reconstruction:some text
  • Achieves symmetry by considering augmentation, reduction, or lift on the opposite breast.
  • Reconstruction can begin even years after a mastectomy.

Revisional Surgery:

Changes may occur over time, such as asymmetry, implant hardening, or recurrent deformity. We offer revisional surgery to improve size, shape, and symmetry years after cancer treatment and reconstruction. Most importantly, both initial and revisional breast reconstruction surgeries are typically covered by insurance.

Breast Reduction 

Excess breast fat, tissue, and skin can lead to discomfort and health issues, prompting the need for a reduction mammoplasty. We understand the real physical and emotional challenges posed by large and heavy breasts. Our breast reduction surgery is designed to enhance both comfort and overall well-being.

Am I A Good Candidate For Breast Reduction?

We assess candidacy during consultations, ensuring that breast reduction aligns with your goals. This procedure is suitable for individuals experiencing:

• Breasts disproportionate to their frame
• Uncomfortably large or pendulous breasts
• Asymmetry between breasts
• Back, neck, and shoulder pain due to overly large breasts

A suitable candidate should be able to tolerate general anesthesia, be a non-smoker, and have realistic expectations about the achievable outcomes.

Benefits Of Breast Reduction

Breast reduction, or Reduction Mammoplasty, can be a transformative surgery for those grappling with disproportionately large or heavy breasts. This procedure aims to bring breasts into balance with the body, resulting in beautiful and healthy-looking breasts. The relief experienced extends beyond aesthetics, helping alleviate back pain, rashes, discomfort from bra straps, breathing difficulties, and more.

Gynecomastia: A Solution for Men

Enlarged male breasts (gynecomastia) affect a significant percentage of men, often causing embarrassment and silent suffering. Dr. Arakelyan and his team can provide a solution, offering a flatter and firmer chest.

Recovery and Results From Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast reduction surgery is conducted under general anesthesia, typically lasting between two to four hours. During the procedure, our skilled team removes excess fat and glandular tissue, while simultaneously tightening the skin to achieve firmness and a beautifully shaped outcome. The result is lighter, firmer breasts in proportion with the rest of your body.

Post-surgery, you will be sent home with bandages around the incision sites to reduce swelling and minimize bleeding. Your surgeon will provide detailed instructions regarding postoperative care and activities to avoid immediately after surgery and in the weeks to come.

Recovery Process:

The duration of the recovery process varies among patients, depending on the extent of the procedure and individual healing capabilities. While strenuous activities should be avoided for approximately four weeks, many patients begin to feel a sense of normalcy within a few days post-surgery.

Results and Proportion:

The results of a breast reduction surgery are evident in the newfound balance achieved, bringing the size of your breasts into harmonious proportion with the rest of your body. The procedure not only enhances physical comfort but also contributes to an aesthetically pleasing overall appearance.

Visualizing Potential Results:

Explore our before-and-after photos showcasing the outcomes achieved for other breast reduction patients. These images offer a glimpse into the transformative impact of the procedure, providing you with a visual representation of the potential benefits tailored to your unique circumstances.

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Implant Removal/Replacement 

Whether for personal preferences or medical reasons, the removal or replacement of breast implants is a specialized service provided by the experienced doctors at Gawley Plastic Surgery. Our team is trained in the best techniques for effective and safe implant removal, including En Bloc breast implant removal.

Reasons for Implant Removal:

Breast implants may be removed for various reasons, such as:

• Rupture: In cases of implant rupture.
• Capsular Contracture: When excessive scar tissue forms around the implant.
• Cosmetic Preferences: If a patient decides to change the size or type of implants for aesthetic reasons.

Our surgeons prioritize the well-being and satisfaction of each patient, ensuring a tailored approach to meet individual needs and goals.

Am I A Good Candidate For Implant Removal/Replacement?

The ideal candidate for breast implant removal or replacement is generally in good overall health, well-informed about the procedure, and has realistic expectations. This procedure is suitable for individuals seeking one or more of the following objectives:

• Replace a Ruptured Implant: Candidates with a ruptured implant may opt for removal and replacement.
• Replace a Recalled Implant: In cases where implants are recalled, removal and replacement are recommended.
• Size Adjustment: Individuals desiring a change in implant size, either larger or smaller.
• Alleviate Pain from Capsular Contracture: For those experiencing discomfort due to excessive scar tissue.
• Reshape or Reposition Implants: Candidates seeking alterations in breast implant shape or position.
• Switch Implant Style: Those wishing to replace implants with a different style, such as silicone or saline.
• Complete Implant Removal: Individuals opting to remove implants altogether.
• Concerns about Breast Implant Illness (BII): For those with concerns related to Breast Implant Illness, the procedure may be considered.

Candidates are encouraged to discuss their specific goals and concerns with our surgeons, ensuring a personalized approach that aligns with individual needs and aspirations.

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Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

A breast lift, also known as mastopexy, is a surgical procedure designed to lift, reshape, and tighten the breasts. This surgery aims to restore the youthful contour, firmness, and positioning of the breasts, particularly in cases where sagging or loss of firmness has occurred due to factors such as pregnancy or weight loss.

For women with sufficient breast tissue, a breast lift can often be a more suitable alternative to breast enlargement, providing a solution to address changes in breast shape and firmness without the need for additional volume. The procedure is tailored to meet individual goals, contributing to a rejuvenated and aesthetically pleasing breast appearance.

Am I A Good Candidate

For Breast Lift Surgery?

Breast lift surgery is beneficial for women experiencing sagging breasts or a loss of elasticity in breast skin. Ideal candidates include those affected by sagging due to factors like pregnancy, weight loss, age, or genetics. This procedure is particularly suitable for individuals with ample breast tissue seeking to enhance shape, firmness, and perkiness.

Additionally, a breast lift can be seamlessly combined with techniques such as fat grafting or breast implants to achieve comprehensive results. This combination allows for an optimal balance, enhancing size while achieving desired placement, shape, and tone for many women. The procedure is personalized to address individual goals, providing a tailored approach to rejuvenate and enhance the appearance of the breasts.

Fat Grafting

Fat grafting offers a natural solution for enhancing various areas of the body, including the face, body, and breasts. This technique involves using the patient's own fat cells as an alternative to implants or facial fillers, providing subtle enhancements with long-lasting results.

By harnessing the patient's natural fat cells, our surgeons specialize in body contouring and utilize fat grafting to enhance the outcomes of cosmetic procedures. This approach ensures a personalized and natural-looking enhancement, contributing to the overall satisfaction and aesthetic goals of each individual.

Who Is A Good Candidate for Fat Grafting?

The ideal candidates for fat grafting are those with sufficient excess fat in other areas of the body that can be utilized for the transfer. Common donor sites include the abdomen, flanks (love handles), and inner or upper thighs. Candidates should be willing to undergo liposuction on one of these areas to obtain the necessary fat cells. This dual approach not only facilitates slimming in one area but also allows for enhancement in another, achieving a balanced and personalized outcome.

Recovery Process for Fat Grafting

The recovery experience varies depending on the location of the fat grafting procedure, involving two key areas: the donor site and the placement site. Patients can anticipate some swelling, bruising, and general discomfort in both areas, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication and the application of an ice pack.

A critical aspect of the recovery process is avoiding any pressure on the transfer site. In the case of breast fat transfer, this means refraining from lying on the stomach, as any pressure could compromise the blood supply to the newly transferred fat cells, potentially leading to their loss.

We provide comprehensive post-operative care instructions and restrictions upon completion of the procedure. Strict adherence to these guidelines, along with taking the necessary time off work for proper recovery, is crucial. Following the recovery period, patients can anticipate a natural-looking enhancement that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also long-lasting.

If you're considering adding natural fullness to your face, body, or breasts through fat grafting, reach out to our office in Scottsdale, AZ. We can schedule a consultation with Dr.Arakelyan  to discuss your treatment options in greater detail.

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