Post by Lisa on Sept 23, 2006 17:49:35 GMT 7
Under the Knife - By Rehana Begg
While there were no surgical flaws with Dina Al-Sabah’s original implants, her pro physique had undergone significant sculptural changes since 1999 and she could see the implants move whenever she flexed or wore anything tight. Al-Sabah, an IFBB professional athlete, scheduled her second surgery to improve her breasts’ overall appearance by enhancing her implant size and switching from saline to silicone.
Unfortunately, the second implant surgery – 600 cc silicone implants placed under the pectoral muscle – didn’t solve the problem and posed further challenges: “If I flexed or moved in a way that caused my chest muscles to flex, my right implant would be distorted and flattened, and the incision under the nipple would pucker. The left implant did not have this distortion, but it moved out to the side a lot more than the right one,” says Dina. In addition, the lopsided appearance became particularly problematic at photo shoots and on stage.
While Dina’s problem is rare, it is not uncommon, says Seattle-based Dr. Richard Baxter, Dina’s plastic surgeon. “Implants are the same for all women, regardless of whether they are athletes.” Many women who work out, including some professional athletes, have implants under the muscle (instead of the more common placement in front of the muscle) and are very happy with their appearance, says Baxter. He believes most of the 254,140 clients who opted for breast augmentation procedures in the United States last year can expect to have one or both implants replaced during their lifetimes, particularly to adjust the shape, size or position if they lose or gain weight or develop thickening of the scar tissue (capsular contracture).
Dina’s third bout of corrective surgery lasted only two hours. Apart from the $5,800 cost of the surgery, Dina did not suffer any major setbacks. Within four weeks she resumed her regular lifestyle and exercise routine. The deformation associated with implantation under the muscle was completely eliminated with this procedure and is a great option for women who work out and have low body fat, says Dina.
While there’s no telling with certainty whether Dina will face another bout of implant surgery in the near future (as implants sometimes deflate), Dina is satisfied with her overall appearance.
Staying Abreast
If you’re considering breast augmentation, seek out a board-certified plastic surgeon who is experienced and comfortable with the procedure. And make sure you understand the parameters of care before, during and after surgery. Here are a few websites to augment your research:
• www.justbreastimplants.com
• www.implantinfo.com
• www.breastimplants411.com
• www.baxterplasticsurgery.com
• www.plasticsurgery.org
From www.oxygenmag.com