Breast Augmentation
Millions of American women have had breast implants for reconstruction after breast cancer or for cosmetic reasons. It is a safe and successful surgery. Deciding to get breast implants is a personal choice. But, breast augmentation is more than a surgical procedure. The nonsurgical aspects of augmentation are equally important. These nonsurgical aspects include patient education, preoperative planning and good postoperative management, which enhance patient satisfaction.
Breast augmentation surgery, called augmentation mammoplasty, breast enlargement or breast implants, is designed to:
- regain breast size after pregnancy or significant weight loss
- increase breast size for aesthetic reasons including the desire for clothes to fit better
- improve proportion and/or create a more appealing figure
- to restore symmetry when one breast is smaller than the other
In 2015, breast augmentation was the TOP cosmetic surgery, with 286,254 procedures performed. Breasts are important to a woman’s psychological health. Aesthetic breast surgery has a positive impact on sexuality, significant improvement in self esteem, and body image satisfaction. Studies show that women seek breast augmentation to feel more feminine, confident, and attractive.
Los Angeles, California Board Certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Anthony Griffin’s goal is to create a physical result that equals your anticipated body image to improve your self esteem and quality of life.
Four key factors to think about when considering breast augmentation
Size
The choice of size depends on the patient’s anatomy and the desired result.
Implant Type
Saline implants are silicone shells filled with sterile water. They may be prefilled or filled during surgery. Generally, this type reduces the risk of visibility of the implants. They are safe and offer a natural look and feel.
Silicone implants are silicone shells filled with silicone gel. Many women say these implants feel more like the natural breast than saline. They are available in a variety of shapes as well as sizes. They are prefilled with silicone gel. Silicone implants are known to leak, so regular visits to your surgeon are necessary to assure they function as designed. Round implants create a fuller appearance with a higher profile. They are the same shape all over so that they are not likely to rotate out of position.
Form stable implants are so named because they maintain their shape, even after the implant shell is broken. The gel is thicker and the implants are firmer than regular silicone gel implants. But, they can require a longer incision.
Autologous fat transfer uses your own fat cells that are extracted during liposuction, purified and injected into the breast.
The Implant Surface
Smooth: A smooth surface provides a softer feel and more natural look. However smooth implants can move inside the implant pocket, which may appear more natural. But, they may be more visible or able to be felt.
Textured: Textured implants create scar tissue that sticks to the implant making it less likely they will move around. The risk of capsular scarring is reduced.
Shape
Most implants are round symmetrical, and will not distort if they move within the pocket.
Anatomical implants are oval shaped with more volume at the bottom. However, if they shift asymmetry can result. Use of a textured anatomical implant can help keep the implant in the correct position.
Are you a good candidate?
The only way to know for sure is to have a consultation with Dr. Anthony Griffin, board certified plastic surgeon. Generally, if you are healthy, do not smoke and have realistic expectations you may be a good patient. Our goal at Griffin Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills, CA is to guide you through the choices you will make so that you understand the options and can make an informed decision about what is best for you.
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