Thinking About Breast Augmentation? What You Need to Know Before You Decide

Making The Breast Augmentation Leap

For decades, breast augmentation has been the gold standard for women looking to enhance breast size and shape. Statistics show that over 300,000 women undergo breast augmentation yearly. The procedure helps women find confidence with these enhanced breasts and curves. Breast augmentation is also helpful for individuals who experience rapid changes in breast size due to pregnancy, mastectomy, or extreme weight loss. While there are many benefits, the decision must not be taken lightly. Women should research what to expect and the factors involved with each type of breast augmentation procedure.

Understanding breast augmentation

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that increases the size and appearance of a woman’s breasts. Most procedures are performed by inserting breast implants into the breast. Along with increasing the breast size, augmentation can be used to achieve more symmetry, increase volume, or improve breast shape. Some procedures use fat transfer, where fat is removed from the body and transferred to the breast area. The candidate will work with a cosmetic surgeon to determine the desired size, shape, and symmetry goals. The procedure continues to gain popularity, restoring confidence in women seeking a more harmonious appearance.

Navigating your initial consultation

All breast augmentations start with an initial consultation between the potential patient and surgeon. During this meeting, the surgeon can assess the patient, discuss desired goals, and outline the options available. A thorough consultation is essential in ensuring the patient is the right candidate, healthy, and has realistic expectations. The surgeon will outline all the factors that the patient needs to know. These factors include surgery type, implant type, size, implant location, and incision location. The right combination leads to a more effective and favorable outcome.

The types of implants matter

Breast augmentation using fat has advantages, including a more natural approach. Most patients will choose breast implants, however, there are significant limitations to breast size and outcomes with fat transfer. Breast implants are made of full silicone or a silicone shell filled with a saline solution. Silicone implants tend to look more natural and mimic breast tissue. These implants tend to be heavier and last longer but can cause complications if a rupture occurs. Saline implants are filled with a saline solution, enabling smaller incisions and greater control over size. While safer when ruptured, saline implants are more prone to rippling under the skin. A third option, the gummy bear implant, has a thicker silicone composition with a more natural teardrop shape. Choosing the right option is an important step in the process.

Implant size and profile

Choosing the implant type will guide implant size and profile decisions. The surgeon will recommend the ideal size based on the patient’s height, weight, body frame, torso, and overall goals. Breast implant size is not about increasing bra size but choosing the right volume, measured in cubic centimeters (cc). Small implants start at 150cc, while the largest implants start at 400cc and above. Smaller implants tend to give a subtle change with a more natural shape and texture. Larger implants are ideal for achieving significant fullness and volume, particularly suitable for taller women with broader torsos. Profile plays a role in results. Implant profile refers to the extent to which the implant projects outward from the chest. Choosing the right size and profile combination will determine the desired shape and cleavage after healing.

Location, location, location

During the consultations, the surgeon will recommend the implant location and type of incision. The implant can be placed in front of or behind the muscular wall of the chest. The subglandular approach uses the front of the chest wall, with the implant sitting within the breast tissue. Ideal for larger implants, this option has a more prominent, fuller result. Recovery is typically shorter as no muscle disruption occurs. The submuscular approach places the implant behind the initial layers of the pectoral muscle. While recovery is longer, the surrounding muscle and tissue cover the implant, creating a more natural look. There is also a dual-plane option where only the upper part of the implant is covered by the pectoral muscle, giving the best of both worlds.

Can you handle recovery?

Surgery will be performed using the chosen implant type, size, and location. The surgeon will install the implant using a specific incision either around the areola, within the natural creases of the breast, or near the armpit. The patient should prepare before and after surgery, as recovery can take several weeks. Having a friend or loved one provide support during the first 2 weeks limits the risk of complications. Follow all doctor instructions for aftercare and follow-up consultations. Report any signs of severe discomfort, bleeding, inflammation, or infection that lasts multiple days.

Make an informed decision

Breast augmentation is more than choosing to increase bra size. There are numerous factors to consider. Potential patients must understand the benefits and risks of each stage. From choosing the implant type and size to implant location and recovery, these factors determine the procedure’s success. The patient must be ready for recovery, risks, and the challenges of surgery. After recovery, however, many women see fantastic results, which can last for decades. Use the initial consultation to ask questions, seek advice, and make a final decision.