Breast augmentation continues to be a widely popular plastic surgery procedure today, as women are tuning into the many options they now have in creating a fuller, more sensuous body contour. You choice of implant types, shapes and even their placement in your breast tissue allow this procedure to be tailored precisely to the results you are looking for. Before you schedule your breast augmentation surgery, Dr. Jeffrey Hall encourages you to educate yourself about the various choices in breast augmentation surgery.
Breast Implants
There are two basic types of breast implants to choose from today:
Saline implants – These implants consist of a silicone shell that is filled with a sterile saline solution after the implant is placed in the breast. The advantages of saline implants are smaller incisions and a slightly lower cost. Drawbacks include a less natural feel than other implants and risk of tearing or rupture, which could significantly impact the look of the breast.
Silicone implants – These implants are also made from a silicon shell, but are also filled with a more cohesive silicone substance. Gummy bear implants, named because of their similarity in consistency to gummy bear candy, fall into this category. Silicone implants offer a more natural look and feel, and will not change shape in the event of a tear. However, incisions to place these implants are generally longer, resulting in more post-operative scarring.
Choosing for Natural Results
Within these two implant types, there are numerous sizes, shapes and projections to choose from. In addition to choosing a new cup size, you need to decide between round implants or teardrop-shaped implants (also known as anatomical implants). The round shape provides more fullness in the top portion of the breast, which may mean more cleavage in low-cut clothing. Teardrop shapes result in less fullness on top and more in the lower half of the breast, for a natural look and shape. Projection deals more with the positioning of the breast and is usually selected based on your body size and shape.
Placement Options
Implants can also be placed in two different areas of the breast, depending on the preferences of the patient and surgeon. Some implants are placed underneath the breast tissue, but on top of the pectoral muscle. This is usually a choice for women with ample breast tissue to cover the implant. Other patients may choose to have the implant placed beneath the pectoral muscle to reduce the risk that the edges of the implant may be visible on the outside of the breast.
Breast augmentation can seem like an overwhelming process, with many decisions to make prior to your surgery day. Dr. Hall understands there are many things to consider when preparing for breast surgery, and he will work with you to help you make the best choices for you. To learn more, contact Hall Plastic Surgery and Rejuvenation Center at 855-851-4832 to schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Hall.