Breast Procedures

Breast Augmentation (Augmentation Mammoplasty)*

Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammaplasty)*

Dr. Dixon uses Mentor breast implants, exclusively. All Mentor implants come with a Lifetime Product Replacement policy free of charge. Mentor has been making saline breast implants for more than 20 years and is recognized as the international leader in the category.

Procedures with an * next to them include ON-Q PainBuster™ to minimize a patient's discomfort after surgery. The self administering "pain pump" provides a numbing medicine which lasts up to 72 hours. Today, your options for relieving post-operative pain have dramatically improved, including an alternative that allows a more comfortable recovery without narcotic side effects, such as breathing difficulties, nausea, constipation and that "knocked out" feeling.

Breast Augmentation (Augmentation Mammoplasty)*

Many options are available to women today. Breast implant manufacturers have developed many styles, unique features, shapes and sizes of breast implants. The implant shapes can be round, oval or contoured. The surface of the implants has traditionally been smooth to the touch, but now there is another choice-a textured surface. Implants are filled with either sterile salt water or silicone gel. Dr. Dixon can help you sort through these options and decide on the one best suited for you.

There are numerous surgical techniques, but usually breast implants are surgically inserted utilizing one of the following:

the inframammary incision, made in the skin fold below the breast
the periareolar incision, made along the edge of the colored area around the nipple
the transaxillary incision, made in the armpit.

All of these incisions allow the implant to be placed either submuscular (below the chest muscle) or subglandular (between the chest muscle and your breast tissue).

No one incision and placement is right for every woman.

If you are interested in learning more about breast enlargement or breast lifts, please call High Plains Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at (806) 242-2001.

Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical enhancement procedure to accentuate the size and shape of a woman's breasts. While breast augmentation will make the breasts larger, the surgery will not move the breasts closer together or lift sagging breasts. Breast augmentation is tremendous help to patients who desire a fuller profile, who have lost breast volume due to pregnancy or nursing, or who have undergone breast reconstruction and want to gain a more natural look again.

Reasons for Considering Breast Augmentation:

Enhance body shape if breasts are too small.
Increase breast volume after pregnancy and nursing.
Equalize a difference in breast size (cup size) to gain breast symmetry.
Reconstruct breasts following a mastectomy or injury.

General Procedure

Breast augmentation involves making a small incision to insert a breast implant into the breast area in order to enlarge the breast. The surgery is commonly performed on an outpatient basis at a hospital or state-of-the-art surgical unit while the patient is under a general anesthesia and asleep. There are several possible locations for the small incision that will be used for inserting the breast implant. Dr. Dixon's preferred technique involves making an incision in the armpit. Another technique utilizes an incision made in the lower portion of the breast. A third technique makes an incision around the areola (the darker skin surrounding the nipple). Another technique uses an incision in the belly button, thus reducing the chance of scarring in the breast area. The best technique will be decided together between the patient and Dr. Dixon during the consultation.

During surgery, the breast tissue is raised to create an open pocket under the breast tissue or beneath the chest wall muscle. Inserting an implant behind each breast can increase a woman's breast size by one or more bra cup sizes. Implants typically contain a saline solution (similar to saltwater) although in special cases the implants can contain a silicone gel. In some circumstances, particularly those in which there is breast asymmetry (uneven breast size), an inflatable implant may be used to allow Dr. Dixon to adjust the level of inflation to attain breast symmetry and balance. Surgery typically lasts from 1 to 2 hours.

Recovery Process

Generally, post-operative instructions call for plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and recovery time. Bandages are applied right after surgery to aid the healing process and to minimize movement of the breasts. Once the bandages are removed, a specialized surgical bra will need to be worn for several weeks. Patients sometimes report minor pain associated with the surgery. This pain can be treated effectively with oral medication. While complications are rare, patients can minimize potential problems by carefully following the directions given by the physician after surgery

Breast Lift (Mastopexy)*

A breast lift, also known as a mastopexy, is a procedure to raise and reshape sagging breasts. As a woman ages, skin and suspensory ligaments loses some elasticity which can cause the breasts to lose their natural shape and firmness. This procedure is designed to elevate the breasts and give them a more youthful appearance. A breast lift may also be completed in conjunction with breast enlargement surgery (augmentation).

Reasons for Considering a Breast Lift:

Elevate the breasts due to sagging caused by the effects of aging and gravity.
Firm the breasts if they have lost substance due to pregnancy and subsequent breastfeeding.
Re-align your nipples/areolas if they point down or to the side.
Bring back natural suppleness after weight loss.

General Procedure

The breast lift surgical procedure usually takes one to two hours. Techniques vary, but the most common procedure involves a vertical incision along the underside of the breast. The incision goes around the area where skin will be removed, thus defining how the nipple will be relocated. When the excess skin has been removed, the nipple and areola are moved into a higher position. The skin surrounding the areola is brought down and together to reshape the breast.

Some patients, especially those with relatively small breasts and minimal sagging, may be candidates for modified procedures requiring less extensive incisions. One such procedure is the "doughnut (or concentric) mastopexy" in which circular incisions are made around the areola and a doughnut-shaped area of skin is removed. Recent innovations in breast lift techniques include minimal incision techniques and nipple sensation reducing procedures.

If the patient is having an implant inserted along with the breast lift, the implant will be placed in a pocket directly under the breast tissue or under the muscle of the chest wall.

Recovery Process

Generally, post-operative instructions call for plenty rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and recovery time. Bandages are applied right after surgery to aid the healing process and to minimize movement of the breasts. Once the bandages are removed, the patient will need to wear a specialized surgical bra for several weeks. Patients sometimes report minor pain associated with surgery which can be treated with oral medication. While complications are rare, patients can minimize potential problems by carefully following the post-operative directions given by Dr. Dixon.

Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammaplasty)*

Thousands of women have experienced improved body contour, less pain, and are more comfortable engaging in physical activities due to breast reduction surgery. The other good news is that most insurance companies will pay part or all of the costs of this surgery if it is performed as a result of back or neurological problems related to large breasts. Our office staff will provide assistance with your insurance questions.

Breast reduction (or reduction mammaplasty) is an enhancement procedure that reshapes the breasts in order to make them smaller, lighter, and firmer. Reduction is accomplished by removing excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin. Large breasts can cause physical pain as well as emotional and social anxiety. Women who take advantage of the breast reduction procedure find that they are able to lead a healthier, more comfortable life, in addition to enjoying a beautiful, more proportionate appearance.

Reasons for Considering a Breast Reduction:

Back, neck or shoulder pain caused by heavy breasts.
Sagging breasts produced by their large size.
Disproportionate body frame attributed to oversized breasts.
Restriction of physical activity due to the size and weight of the breasts.
Painful bra strap marks and/or rashes as a result of large breasts.

General Procedure

Techniques for breast reduction vary; however, the most common procedure involves an incision that circles the areola. From the areola, the incision goes down and follows the natural curve under the breast. Dr. Dixon then removes excess glandular tissue, fat, and skin. Next, the nipple and areola are repositioned to a higher position and held in place by stitches. Rarely, liposuction alone can be used to reduce breast size. This is more common for male patients The best procedure can be determined during the initial consultation visit.

Patients are pleased with the elimination of physical pain caused by large breasts as well as a better proportioned body, an enhanced appearance, and better fitting clothes.

Recovery Process

Generally, post-operative instructions call for plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and reduce the recovery time. Bandages are applied immediately following surgery to aid the healing process and to minimize movement of the breasts. Once the bandages are removed, a specialized surgical bra may need to be worn for several weeks. Patients sometimes report minor pain associated with surgery. Pain is treated with oral medication and a pain pump. While complications are rare, patients can minimize potential problems by carefully following the instructions given after surgery.

Breast Reconstruction*

Reconstruction of a breast that has been removed due to cancer or other disease is one of the most rewarding surgical procedures available today. New medical techniques and devices have made it possible for surgeons to create a breast that can come close in form and appearance to matching a natural breast. Frequently, reconstruction is possible immediately following breast removal (mastectomy), so the patient wakes up with a breast mound already in place, having been spared the experience of seeing herself with no breast at all.

But bear in mind, post-mastectomy breast reconstruction is not a simple procedure. There are often many options to consider as you and Dr. Dixon explore what's best for you.

This information will give you a basic understanding of the procedure -- when it's appropriate, how it's done, and what results you can expect. It can't answer all of your questions, since a lot depends on your individual circumstances.

Most mastectomy patients are medically appropriate for reconstruction, many at the same time that the breast is removed. The best candidates, however, are women whose cancer, as far as can be determined, seems to have been eliminated by mastectomy.

Still, there are legitimate reasons to wait. Many women aren't comfortable weighing all the options while they're struggling to cope with a diagnosis of cancer. Others simply don't want to have any more surgery than is absolutely necessary. Some patients may be advised by their surgeons to wait, particularly if the breast is being rebuilt in a more complicated procedure using flaps of skin and underlying tissue. Women with other health conditions, such as radiation therapy, obesity, high blood pressure, or smoking, may also be advised to wait.

In any case, being informed of your reconstruction options before surgery can help you prepare for a mastectomy with a more positive outlook for the future.

Virtually any woman who must lose her breast to cancer can have it rebuilt through reconstructive surgery. But there are risks associated with any surgery and specific complications associated with this procedure.

In general, the usual problems of surgery, such as bleeding, fluid collection, excessive scar tissue, or difficulties with anesthesia, can occur although they're relatively uncommon. And, as with any surgery, smokers should be advised that carbon monoxide can delay healing, resulting in conspicuous scars and prolonged recovery. Occasionally, these complications are severe enough to require a second operation.

If an implant is used, there is a remote possibility that an infection will develop, usually within the first two weeks following surgery. In some of these cases, the implant may need to be removed for several months until the infection clears. A new implant can later be inserted.

The most common problem, capsular contracture, occurs if the scar or capsule around the implant begins to tighten. This squeezing of the soft implant can cause the breast to feel hard. Capsular contracture can be treated in several ways, and sometimes requires either removal or "scoring" of the scar tissue, or perhaps removal or replacement of the implant.

Reconstruction has no known effect on the recurrence of disease in the breast, nor does it generally interfere with chemotherapy or radiation treatment, should cancer recur.

While there are many options available in post-mastectomy reconstruction, you and Dr. Dixon should discuss the one that's best for you.

General Procedure

Skin expansion

The most common technique combines skin expansion and subsequent insertion of an implant.

Following mastectomy, Dr. Dixon will insert a balloon expander beneath your skin and chest muscle. Through a tiny valve mechanism buried beneath the skin, he will periodically inject a salt-water solution to gradually fill the expander over several weeks or months. After the skin over the breast area has stretched enough, the expander may be removed in a second operation and a more permanent implant will be inserted. Some expanders are designed to be left in place as the final implant. The nipple and the dark skin surrounding it, called the areola, are reconstructed in a subsequent procedure.

Some patients do not require preliminary tissue expansion before receiving an implant. For these women, Dr. Dixon will proceed with inserting an implant as the first step.

Flap reconstruction

An alternative approach to implant reconstruction involves creation of a skin flap using tissue taken from other parts of the body, such as the back or abdomen.

In one type of flap surgery, the tissue remains attached to its original site, retaining its blood supply. The flap, consisting of the skin, fat, and muscle with its blood supply, are tunneled beneath the skin to the chest, creating a pocket for an implant or, in some cases, creating the breast mound itself, without need for an implant.

Another flap technique uses tissue that is surgically removed from the abdomen and transplanted to the chest by reconnecting the blood vessels to new ones in that region. This procedure requires the skills of a plastic surgeon who is experienced in microvascular surgery as well. Dr. Dixon is experienced in microvascular reconstruction of the breast, extremity, head and neck

Regardless of whether the tissue is tunneled beneath the skin on a pedicle or transplanted to the chest as a microvascular flap, this type of surgery is more complex than skin expansion. Scars will be left at both the tissue donor site and at the reconstructed breast, and recovery will take longer than with an implant. On the other hand, when the breast is reconstructed entirely with your own tissue, the results are generally more natural and there are no concerns about an implant.

Follow-up procedures

Most breast reconstruction involves a series of procedures that occur over time. Usually, the initial reconstructive operation is the most complex. Follow-up surgery may be required to replace a tissue expander with an implant or to reconstruct the nipple and the areola. Many surgeons recommend an additional operation to enlarge, reduce, or lift the natural breast to match the reconstructed breast. But keep in mind, this procedure may leave scars on an otherwise normal breast and may not be covered by insurance.

Recovery Process

You are likely to feel tired and sore for a week or two after reconstruction. Most of your discomfort can be controlled by medication prescribed by your doctor.

Depending on the extent of your surgery, you'll probably be released from the hospital in two to five days. Many reconstruction options require a surgical drain to remove excess fluids from surgical sites immediately following the operation, but these are removed within the first week or two after surgery. Most stitches are removed in a week to 10 days.

It may take you up to six weeks to recover from a combined mastectomy and reconstruction or from a flap reconstruction alone. If implants are used without flaps and reconstruction is done apart from the mastectomy, your recovery time may be less.

Reconstruction cannot restore normal sensation to your breast, but in time, some feeling may return. Most scars will fade substantially over time, though it may take as long as one to two years, but they'll never disappear entirely. The better the quality of your overall reconstruction, the less distracting you'll find those scars.

Follow Dr. Dixon's advice on when to begin stretching exercises and normal activities. As a general rule, you'll want to refrain from any overhead lifting, strenuous sports, and sexual activity for three to six weeks following reconstruction.

Chances are your reconstructed breast may feel firmer and look rounder or flatter than your natural breast. It may not have the same contour as your breast before mastectomy, nor will it exactly match your opposite breast. But these differences will be apparent only to you. For most mastectomy patients, breast reconstruction dramatically improves their appearance and quality of life following surgery.

Dr. T. Michael Dixon, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, is dedicated to excellence in plastic surgery, reconstructive surgery and cosmetic surgery. Specializing in: breast augmentation, tummy tuck, body lift, arm lift, thigh lift, post bariatric/gastric bypass surgery, liposuction, breast reduction, breast reconstruction, face lift, eyelid surgery, body lift, chemical peel, contour threads, Botox, Restylane and ear surgery. Located in Amarillo, Texas the office serves patients from surrounding cities such as Lubbock, Oklahoma City, Albuquerque, and Wichita Falls.