Most breast augmentation surgery takes place in a doctor's office under general anesthesia, though local anesthesia and sedatives may also be used. The exact procedures followed during surgery may vary, depending on where you decide to have the incision made and whether you wish to have the implants placed above or below your chest muscle. However, the process generally begins with a surgeon marking the incision location, making the incision, and working through this opening to create a space for the implant. A pocket may be formed directly under the breast tissue or partially behind the pectoral (peck-TORE-uhl) muscle of the chest. Typically, the implant is inserted and positioned while empty. Once in place, it's filled with the saline (SAY-leen) solution to achieve the desired size. Temporary drainage tubes may be installed to encourage healing of the wound. The incisions are stitched closed and may also be taped, and the breasts are usually wrapped in a gauze bandage. The entire procedure usually takes between one-and-a-half to three hours. A doctor should give you instructions for post-surgical care, including restriction of certain activities. Stitches are usually removed seven to 10 days later, though swelling in the breasts may persist for several weeks.
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