Sponsored by the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, the nation’s largest medical society of cosmetic surgeons, the 3 day workshop focused on procedures such as breast augmentation, breast lift, and breast reduction surgery. “Our breast course has earned excellent recognition and is one of the most popular breast courses in the Academy,” said Dr Mandell-Brown.

The doctors discussed the latest development in cosmetic breast surgery.  Through a combination of lectures, surgery, and anatomy labs, the visiting physicians can improve their skills.  “Its a great way to showcase Cincinnati to our visiting doctors” observed Therese Holden, Nursing director.  She added, “we really strive to make this an outstanding educational experience for the participants.”

1. Does the surgeon have an extensive background and training specific for breast augmentation, and does he/she possess the versatility required to offer you multiple options?

Because some skills overlap, you might find different surgeons doing the same procedure. You might find an ENT surgeon or an oral surgeon performing rhinoplasty. Breast augmentation however, is very specific to plastic and cosmetic surgery. Cosmetic surgeons perform breast augmentation as a primary part of their surgical residency, and should therefore have a greater aptitude to offer a variety of techniques to meet your needs.

2. Who administers anesthesia during the breast augmentation surgery?

Anesthesia is considered safe with a trained practitioner, but in the wrong hands it can pose a pretty serious risk. Whoever administers anesthesia for you should be well trained, prepared for unexpected problems, and focused on your safety.

3. Who will guide you through surgery and oversee your recovery?

Although your cosmetic surgeon should be accessible and responsible for you, it is very common for the supporting staff to oversee much of the operation and assist patients through the process. Doing this is vital to both the success of the surgery and to the overall experience. Read more about our talented staff in Owensboro.

4. Does your surgeon have privileges at a local hospital?

To perform breast augmentation at a hospital, the surgeon must prove or demonstrate a record of training for that field. If surgery isn’t done in a hospital, it will likely be in an outpatient surgical suite or surgery center.

5. Is the surgical facility accredited and safe?

To receive proper accreditation in a surgical facility specific standards must be met. Our Owensboro facility is the only office-based surgery center in the region specializing in cosmetic surgery that is fully accredited by the AAAHC.  Ask us why this is advantageous for our patients!

In some patients, the ability to breastfeed is disrupted by a past breast augmentation.  Usually, this is associated with the periareolar incision (around the lower half of the nipple).  To minimize your risk, a surgeon might recommend other incision sites such as the armpit, breast crease, or navel.

While breast Implant placement below the pectoralis muscle may also be recommended, even with subglandular placement, breast feeding is not necessarily compromised.

Regarding infant safety, research studies haven’t found any measurable risks.  In the late 90s, a study was published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery showing that women with silicone breast implants carry no higher levels of silicone (silicon) in their breast milk than women without implants.  It isn’t known what effect would occur if a small amount of silicone were to pass through to the infant.

If you still have concerns, speak to Dr. Edds or your OB/GYN.  Whether you plan to become pregnant or not, it is best to understand all of the possible breast augmentation risks before proceeding with surgery.