Every woman interested in altering the size of her breasts wants to make sure that she gets the best possible treatment in order to achieve the best possible results. While the basic idea of enlarging breasts is simple, there are a number of factors to consider.
The more that you know about the breast augmentation procedure, the better prepared you will be to make the right decisions to help you meet your cosmetic goals.
An overview of breast augmentation
Just what is the meaning of breast augmentation surgery? Simply put, this is a surgical procedure where breast implants are placed within the chest of a woman looking to enhance the size of her breasts. The implants are a sterile prosthesis that are tailored to meet the size expectations of the individual patient.
During your consultation, there are six basic decisions that need to be made as a part of the preoperative planning for the surgery:
- Size of the implant
- Position of the implant; whether placed beneath the pectoral muscle or beneath the breast tissue above the pectoral muscle
- Incisional location
- Type of implant; whether saline or silicone
- Size of the implant
Selecting the right size for the implant can be one of the most challenging decisions. Bigger is the goal, but just how big should you go? The goal of most breast augmentation procedures is to enhance the curves of the patient, while still ensuring a wholly natural look. The implants should not be too large for the frame of the patient, or it’ll simply not look natural. Larger implants also increase the likelihood of developing neck and shoulder concerns related to the increased weight.
Exploring breast implant types
Generally speaking, there are two types of breast implants. The meaning of breast implants can be defined as medical prostheses that are used to increase the size of the breasts. Breast implants typically consist of a silicone shell that is filled with either silicone or saline. Silicone breast implants can be further defined into two options, the standard silicone implant and the so-called gummy bear implant.
Each type has its own advantages and potential disadvantages that should be carefully reviewed with your surgeon.
Saline implants are usually surgically inserted empty and then filled during the procedure. This can allow for smaller incisions. If the implant ruptures, the saline will be harmlessly absorbed by the body.
Silicone implants are surgically inserted at their full size, which does mean that there will be larger incisions and more scarring visibility. Silicone does, however, offer a much more natural feel than what saline can offer. These implants also have a longer lifespan than their saline counterparts.
The breast augmentation procedure
Advances in medical knowledge and technology have led to the breast augmentation procedure being almost routine. Patients are put under general anaesthesia. The incision will be made, in the agreed-upon location, and the implant will be inserted. Patients will then be allowed to recover from the procedure and leave to go home. It’s a relatively short outpatient procedure that can offer great results.
The full results won’t be entirely noticeable until the postoperative swelling has subsided within a few short weeks. Patients are often able to return to work and driving within a week of surgery and can resume their normal activities within six to eight weeks.
Be sure to disclose your full medical history to your cosmetic surgeon so that you are assured of the best possible outcome from your procedure.
