Beyond Size: How Breast Augmentation Can Enhance Your Profile

The Basics Of Breast Augmentation

A breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that enhances the size and shape of the breasts. The enhancement can be done with artificial implants or with fat grafts. The implants are made from saline, silicone, or a hybrid of these materials. Fat grafts are done by harvesting fat from another area of the body, like the stomach, and injecting the fat directly into the breasts. Fullness and projection are 2 of the biggest concerns for patients interested in breast augmentation. These attributes affect the breast’s profile.

What is the breast implant profile?

The breast implant profile is the measurement of how much the breast projects outward from the chest wall. The base width of the implant determines the projection level, even when the implants are the same size or volume. Furthermore, implant profile is primarily affected by the size of the patient’s chest. Breast implant profile is categorized into 3 groups: low, moderate, and high.

The difference in implant profiles

Low-profile implants offer subtle projection from the chest wall. These types of implants are recommended to patients with a naturally wide chest area. A moderate profile mimics the natural projection of the breast and gives the implants a realistic look. Surgeons recommend this profile for patients with slender chests. The high profile offers the ultimate level of projection and can give an exaggerated look to certain body fames. Doctors often suggest this profile for smaller framed women.

Types of implants

The primary materials used for implants are silicone and saline. Most implants are made out of a silicone shell and filled with a cohesive silicone gel, saline solution, or a standard silicone gel. The implant shell can be smooth or textured. The textured shells are form-stable and prevent implant rotation. The implants shape also varies with round and teardrop options. Breast implant volume is measured in cubic centimeters (cc) and implant diameter or base width is measured in centimeters.

Understanding implant placement

The placement of the breast implant is a key factor in the implant’s profile. Surgeons can make incisions and insert the implant under the breast crease, in the armpit area, the belly button, or through the areola. The implant can be placed in a submuscular fashion, meaning the implant is inserted underneath the breast tissue and pectoral muscles. A subglandular placement means the implant is embedded between the breast tissue and the pectoral muscles. Subglandular placement is ideal for patients with a lot of breast tissue. The excess tissue covers the implant to give a realistic look and feel.

Consulting a plastic surgeon

A breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that is uniquely tailored to the patient. The patient works with the surgeon to determine implant size, shape, and placement. Doctors evaluate physique, paying attention to the chest and hips to understand proper proportions. These consultations and examinations are necessary to get the desired implant profile.