Breast Augmentation Procedure Options: Making an Informed Choice

October 25th, 2022 by

Breast Augmentation Procedure Options: Making an Informed Choice

Breasts are a highly valued part of a woman’s anatomy. Their size, shape, and placement on the chest are vital in how a woman perceives her own body. They can be a great source of pride or negative feelings and discomfort that can take the joy out of living. The good thing is cosmetic breast augmentation surgery is available to women to help them achieve the breasts that make them stand tall with confidence and enjoy life more.

There are two types of breast augmentation; breast implant and fat transfer augmentation. There are multiple variations in each of the two breast augmentation procedure options depending on how you would like your breasts to look and feel.

Choosing Your New Breast Size

Every woman’s body reacts differently to breast implants. The rule of thumb is that every 125-150cc volume added increases the breast cup by a single size (that being said, it is important to remember that cup size, such as a “C” cup or a “DD” is relative as each bra and clothing manufacturer follows a slightly different guide. 

Work with your surgeon to decide just how big or small of a breast implant you can get without causing strain to the breast tissue. It would be helpful if you take a sample bra for the breast size you would like so the doctor can use it to get an idea of the size you want. They can then use that information to estimate your desired breast implant size.

Can Breast Augmentation Fix Sagging Breasts?

Breast augmentation surgery is usually performed to increase the size of breasts by making them fuller and bigger. While this surgery can be performed for reconstructive purposes, it may lead to additional sagging with the extra weight added. If you would like to lift your breast placement, you can consider getting a breast lift procedure which can be done at the same time as your breast augmentation.

Silicone and Saline Breast Implants

Silicone gel and saline breast implants are the two types of breast implants that plastic surgeons use. A saline-filled implant is made of a silicone shell filled with sterile water (saline water). Some implants are already filled, while others can be filled during the procedure.

On the other hand, silicone breast implants are just silicone shells full of more silicone. Most women often prefer silicone breast implants to silicone gel ones because they feel more like natural breast tissue.

The only problem is that silicone is more harmful to your health in case of a rupture or leak. There are smooth and textured silicone and saline implants available in the market, each with its advantage. You can discuss all these in detail with your plastic surgeon.

Who Is Eligible for Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation is best for young women (who are years away from having children) or  women who are done having children, usually in their thirties or early forties. This is because pregnancy and breastfeeding can impact the size and shape of the natural tissue; thereby affecting how the implants look in the chest.

The best breast augmentation patients also have a healthy lifestyle and take time to exercise and eat a balanced diet. If you fit this description and have been thinking about getting a cosmetic procedure for your breasts, you should schedule an appointment today. 

Always remember to manage your expectations of any cosmetic surgery to avoid any frustrations.

Breast Augmentation Q&A

Educating yourself about your soon-to-be breast augmentation procedure is a good idea, so we’ve put together a list of commonly asked questions. 

If you don’t find answers to your questions, you can ask the doctor at your next consultation.

How long does a breast augmentation last?

On average, breast augmentation is designed to last more than a decade. Research suggests that the longer you keep the breast implants, the higher the risk of a breast implant rupture or the rise of other related complications. In most cases, breast implants can last two decades with regular check-ups.

How long does a breast augmentation procedure take?

A breast augmentation surgery can take between one to two hours, and you get to go home as soon as the anesthesia wears off since it is an outpatient procedure. Your surgery may take longer if you have other cosmetic procedures scheduled at the same time.

Does breast augmentation leave scars?

Because the procedures require the plastic surgeon to make incisions, scarring will naturally occur. However, your surgeon will go to great lengths to ensure minimal scarring occurs after your surgery. The surgeon will also try to conceal the scars wherever possible.

What are the possible complications and risks that occur after a breast augmentation?

After the breast augmentation procedure, you will experience swelling, bruising, and some level of discomfort and pain. All these are expected and should fade away as the days go by. Other complications include bleeding, infection, and maybe fluid buildup, which can be avoided if the patient is careful and follows the doctor’s instructions. Rare complications that can happen after breast augmentation include an allergic reaction to anesthesia, a loss of sensation, and encapsulation or formation of scar tissue around the implant, causing asymmetry and discomfort. Sometimes, the patient may develop breast implant illness that causes fatigue, memory loss, rash, and brain fog.