Did you know that breast augmentation is the #1 cosmetic procedure in America just about every year? There are lots of reasons this surgery is so popular! For many women, it’s not unusual to lose breast volume after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss. This can also occur naturally as you age or if you never developed much breast tissue to begin with. Whatever your reason for being interested in the proverbial boob job, U Plastic Surgery is here to help!
Besides the obvious benefit of enhancing the size and shape of your breasts, breast augmentation can improve symmetry, restore lost volume, and rejuvenate your overall appearance. When you choose our Owings Mills practice, you’ll receive a customized treatment plan based on your needs and goals that will give you the perfect silhouette! Let’s look at the basics of breast augmentation.
What are the different types of implants?
The two types of breast implants we use are saline and silicone.
Saline implants are made from a silicone outer shell containing saline fluid. This sterile saltwater solution has been safely used for many years as a fill material for breast implants. If a saline implant happens to leak or tear over time, the fluid will harmlessly process out of your body thanks to its natural metabolism.
Silicone implants have an outer silicone shell containing silicone gel. Since the gel does a great job of mimicking the way natural breast tissue looks and feels, these implants are a popular choice for many women. They do require a little upkeep, however. A silicone implant will maintain its shape even if the shell tears, so regular MRIs are recommended to ensure it remains intact over the years.
Age may play a role in your choice of implant. The FDA has approved saline breast implants for women who are 18 years of age and older and silicone breast implants for age 22 and older. This is something to consider if you’re a younger woman considering breast augmentation.
What are the different shapes for breast implants?
For the best results, you’ll want to choose an implant shape that works well with your body. They come in two basic shapes: round and teardrop (sometimes referred to as anatomic.) Because every woman’s breasts are different, Dr. Tag will help you determine the ideal shape for you.
Round breast implants are the most common shape used in breast augmentation. These come in several different sizes and widths, which makes them easier for surgeons to work with. They also come in a variety of projections, so you’ll be able to achieve a good amount of lift and fullness with them. The symmetrical shape of round implants means the shape of the breast won’t be compromised if the implant happens to rotate.
Teardrop breast implants, also known as contoured or anatomical implants, give you a gently sloping contour that better resembles the natural shape of your breasts. These implants can be ideal if you’re hoping for a more low-key look or if you’ve lost fullness and experienced stretching due to pregnancy and lactation. While the contour and fullness of the upper breast tends to be better preserved with this implant shape, they do require greater care when being inserted. Good thing Dr. Tag is such a pro!
Keep in mind that an improperly sized implant of any shape can impact how natural your breasts look post-surgery. Working with a qualified plastic surgeon like Dr. Tag to determine the best size and shape implant for your body will give you exceptional results you’ll love.
What are the different textures for breast implants?
You may be surprised to learn that breast implants come in different textures as well as shapes and sizes! Smooth implants have a silicone shell with a slick polished surface. Textured implants are made of the same material, but have an irregular surface. It’s a bit like a softer version of sandpaper, with a fine or coarse texture formed right into the silicone shell. Neither texture is rough, however.
An implant with a smooth surface can freely move and turn within the breast, while a textured implant adheres to the breast pocket and does not rotate. This isn’t a problem when a round implant is used, but it can cause issues with teardrop implants since rotation with this shape may result in an altered breast shape.
What are the different placement options for breast implants?
The next two sections get a little technical, but we’ll keep things as simple as possible to help you understand the specifics! There are two options available for breast implant placement: over the pectoral muscle (subglandular) or under the pectoral muscle (subpectoral.) Your anatomy will determine the best method of inserting and positioning breast implants.
With a subglandular placement, implants are inserted under the breast tissue, just above the pectoralis muscle. This method doesn’t alter the muscle, so the recovery time is typically shorter and comes with less soreness. The breasts may appear less natural, however, because the transition from the chest to the breast won’t be quite as smooth.
Submuscular placement is often the preferred placement choice for patients and surgeons, since implants placed under the lower portion of the pectoralis muscle give more natural-looking results. This method can also reduce the risk of rippling, particularly if you’re petite or don’t have much natural breast tissue. Many women love how smooth the chest-to-breast transition is with this placement, as well as the ample implant coverage it provides.
What are the incision options for breast augmentation?
There are three common incisions used for breast augmentation surgery. Dr. Tag will help determine the right incision for your body during your consultation.
Periareolar incision
This incision is made halfway around the lower circumference of the areola. Scarring is well-concealed by the bumpy texture and darker pigment of its edge, so if that’s a concern, this can be a good option! There have been some reports of this incision type affecting nipple sensation and the ability to breastfeed, but this is something Dr. Tag will discuss with you in more detail prior to your surgery.
Inframammary incision
The inframammary fold is the horizontal crease where the breast meets the body. An incision in this area is preferred by many surgeons because it allows direct access to the tissue, which makes implant placement more precise. Any size implant can be placed through this incision and it comes with a lower risk of breastfeeding difficulties or changes in nipple sensation. Note that the resulting scar may not be as hidden as other incision types.
Transaxillary incision
When this incision is used, a tunnel to the breast is created through the armpit with an endoscope to form a pocket for implant insertion. There is no scarring on the breast itself, only in the armpit area. However, there’s less control over what tissues are modified during surgery since there is no direct visualization. This can make implant placement a little more complex. Recovery may also be somewhat more intense due to the increased risk of bleeding and bruising.
Get the curves you deserve with U Plastic Surgery
At U Plastic Surgery, we put the focus on “U”! Dr. Tag will create a customized plan for your breast augmentation to help you safely achieve natural-looking results you’ll love. If you’re in Owings Mills or the Baltimore area and ready to explore the idea of breast augmentation, get in touch with us today to schedule your consultation!