The decision to transform your appearance by having breast augmentation surgery can be truly life-changing. Not only is choosing breast augmentation a highly personal decision for many women, but there are several important considerations to weigh throughout your surgical journey.
At Center for Plastic Surgery, we aim to provide you with the resources and guidance you need to have the BEST breast augmentation experience. This includes selecting the right surgeon, familiarizing yourself with all of your breast implant options, understanding incisions, and having realistic expectations about your procedure and results. Keep reading to position yourself for the best breast augmentation journey possible!
How To Find the Best Plastic Surgeon for Breast Augmentation
Every successful breast augmentation procedure begins with a productive surgical consultation. Do your homework by identifying board-certified plastic surgeons in your area and arrange to meet with them to share your concerns and goals. Ensure that the provider you select takes the time to thoroughly understand your aesthetic vision and explore all your breast augmentation options.
A top breast surgeon will guide you toward surgical choices that align with your vision while complementing your body frame and lifestyle. Always ask to see breast augmentation before and after photos to view actual patient transformations and results.
Choosing the Right Breast Implants
When choosing breast implants, keep in mind that what’s “right” for your friend who referred you to our practice may not be the best choice for you. Selecting the right breast implant size and profile depends on individual preferences, body proportions, and your unique aesthetic goals. Here are other essential things to keep in mind about breast implant sizes and breast implant types:
Breast Implant Material: Saline vs. Silicone Implants
While most women prefer silicone-filled breast implants, it’s always a matter of personal preference! Cohesive silicone gel implants offer a more natural look and feel and may last longer than their saline counterparts. However, some women prefer the peace of mind that comes with saline implants as they can be inserted through a smaller incision and have clear visual indicators in the unlikely event of a rupture. This early detection system allows for quick action through revision surgery and no adverse health effects caused by the implant’s sterile saltwater solution.
According to a plastic surgery statistics report compiled by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, silicone implants accounted for 84% of all breast augmentation procedures performed in 2020. Saline implants, by contrast, only accounted for 16% of surgeries.
Breast Implant Size and Profile
While most women are familiar with bra cup sizes, breast implants are measured in cubic centimeters (cc). Most implants range between 100 to 800 cc. During your consultation, we will utilize “sizers” in your bra to help you better visualize your breast augmentation possibilities. We’ll also discuss your profile preferences, meaning how much your implant will project from your chest. Our breast surgeons will guide you toward options that flatter your body frame while accomplishing your aesthetic goals.
Breast Implant Shape: Round vs. Teardrop
Yet another choice breast augmentation patients must make is whether to choose round implants for enhanced cleavage or more natural-looking teardrop-shaped implants. Teardrop implants feature a gradual slope with textured shells to “hold” their position, and they are typically more expensive than round implants.
While the majority of patients benefit from surgical breast augmentation, women seeking an alternative to breast implants can opt for breast augmentation with fat transfer. While this approach yields subtle, natural results, it does not dramatically increase breast size.
Understanding Breast Augmentation Incisions
Count on your surgeon’s expertise when selecting the appropriate incision technique. We’ll assess factors such as the type of implant, how we can best conceal scarring, and your natural anatomy. The most common incision type we use is the inframammary incision, which is made along the natural crease beneath the breast. It allows for precise implant placement, with virtually no visible scarring.
We also utilize the periareolar incision, which is placed around the edge of the areola for inconspicuous scarring. The periareolar incision is a popular approach when combining breast augmentation with breast lift surgery.
This short video featuring one of our board-certified breast surgeons further explains how we determine if patients can benefit from a breast augmentation, breast lift, or both procedures.
Tips & Takeaways To Enhance Your Breast Augmentation Experience
As you can see, achieving the best breast augmentation results involves careful and collaborative decision-making between you and your surgeon. Breast augmentation is neither a one-size-fits-all nor a quick-fix solution. To ensure the best journey and outcome, patients must:
- Communicate openly. Your personalized consultation is your opportunity to articulate your vision and express your concerns with a board-certified breast surgery expert.
- Carefully follow pre- and post-op protocols. Adhere to your surgeon’s recommendations and guidelines to optimize healing and results.
- Consider lifestyle factors. Choose implant types and sizes that align with your comfort, activity level, and lifestyle goals.
- Choose YOU. While you will be guided by your surgeon, your choices and decisions should reflect your unique preferences. Don’t let outside influences (or social media influencers) sway you from your personal vision and goals.
- Have patience. Keep your expectations realistic and understand that healing is essential to your journey. Your final results may take several months to achieve—but they will be well worth the wait!
Are you ready to embark on your BEST breast augmentation journey with us? It’s easy to get started. Request a consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons online or call us at (703) 560-2850 to schedule an appointment.
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