You’re not alone in considering breast augmentation – in 2020, over 340,000 women in the US underwent the procedure. As you weigh your options, you’re probably wondering what benefits you can expect and which type of implant is right for you. Will you opt for saline, silicone, or the newer “gummy bear” implant? Understanding the different approaches, risks, and benefits is key to making an informed decision. As you explore your choices, you’ll want to know how to achieve the look and confidence you desire – and that’s just the beginning of your journey.
Benefits of Breast Augmentation
By choosing breast augmentation, you can experience a significant boost in self-confidence and overall quality of life.
This popular cosmetic procedure, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, involves the placement of a breast implant to increase your breast size.
The results can be truly transformative, allowing you to feel more confident and comfortable in your own skin.
Breast augmentation surgery can also improve your overall physical appearance, enhancing the shape and contours of your body.
With a more balanced figure, you’ll feel more empowered to take on the world.
Many women who undergo breast augmentation report a significant improvement in their self-esteem, which can have a positive impact on their personal and professional relationships.
Types of Breast Implants
You have two main options for breast implants: saline-filled or silicone gel-filled, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages.
Saline breast implants are filled with sterile saltwater and are generally less expensive than silicone breast implants. They’re also a good option if you’re concerned about the possibility of rupture, as the implant will simply deflate and the saline will be absorbed by the body.
Silicone breast implants, on the other hand, are filled with a cohesive gel that mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. They’re known for their natural look and feel, but may require a larger incision and have a higher risk of rupture.
In addition to the filling type, you’ll also need to weigh the pros and cons of the shape and texture of your implants.
Round breast implants are the most common type and provide a more dramatic increase in size.
Textured breast implants, which have a rougher surface, are designed to reduce the risk of capsular contracture, a common complication of breast augmentation.
Your surgeon can help you determine which type of breast implant is best for you based on your individual needs and goals.
Implant Sizes and Shapes
Now that you’ve selected the type of implant that suits you best, it’s time to weigh the size and shape that will achieve your desired results.
Implant sizes range from 100cc to 800cc, with the average size being around 350cc. When choosing the right size, consider your natural breast volume, body type, and personal goals. Larger implants may provide more dramatic results, but may also increase the risk of complications.
Round breast implants provide a more natural-looking result, especially for those with a smaller breast volume. On the other hand, shaped implants, also known as teardrop implants, are designed to mimic the natural shape of the breast.
Silicone implants come in both round and shaped options, offering a soft, natural feel.
Your surgeon will help you determine the ideal implant size and shape based on your individual needs and goals. They’ll take into account your body proportion, breast tissue, and the amount of sagging, if any.
Surgical Techniques Explained
Your breast augmentation surgeon will employ one of two primary surgical techniques: periareolar or inframmary, each with its own advantages and considerations.
The periareolar technique involves making an incision around the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple. This approach allows for a shorter scar and can be beneficial for women with smaller breasts.
The inframmary technique, on the other hand, involves making an incision in the crease under the breast. This approach provides more control over implant placement and is often preferred for women with larger breasts.
When deciding on a surgical technique, your surgeon will consider factors such as:
- The size and shape of your breast implant
- The amount of breast tissue you have
- The location of the implant (under or over the muscle)
- Your personal preferences regarding scarring
- The complexity of the procedure
Ultimately, your surgeon will work with you to determine the best surgical technique for your individual needs and goals. By understanding the different approaches to breast augmentation, you can feel more confident and informed as you move forward with your procedure.
Breast Augmentation Candidates
During the initial consultation, surgeons typically assess a woman’s overall health and aesthetic goals to determine if she’s an ideal candidate for breast augmentation.
If you’re considering breast augmentation, you’ll want to know if you’re a good fit for the procedure. Generally, women who are unhappy with the size or shape of their breasts, have asymmetrical breasts, or have experienced significant breast volume loss after pregnancy or weight loss may be suitable candidates.
Your plastic surgeon will evaluate your medical history, body type, and personal goals to determine if breast augmentation is right for you. You’ll also discuss the different types of breast implants and the risks associated with breast implant-associated complications.
If you’re in good health and have realistic expectations, you may be a strong candidate for breast surgery. Your surgeon will work closely with you to create a personalized plan that addresses your unique needs and goals.
Reasons for Breast Augmentation
Women opt for breast augmentation for various reasons, including enhancing their physical appearance, boosting self-confidence, and addressing emotional distress related to their breast size or shape.
If you’re considering breast augmentation, you’re not alone. Many women choose to undergo this surgery to increase their breast size, improve the overall shape of their breasts, or restore their breasts after pregnancy or weight loss.
Some common reasons for breast augmentation include:
- Feeling self-conscious about small breast size
- Wanting to balance out breast size due to asymmetry
- Restoring breast shape and size after pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Enhancing cleavage and overall breast appearance
- Improving self-confidence and body image
Choosing the Right Surgeon
Now that you’ve decided to take the step towards breast augmentation, finding a qualified surgeon who meets your needs is the next essential step. You want a surgeon who’s experienced in breast implant procedures and has a track record of delivering excellent results.
Start by researching board-certified plastic surgeons in your area who are members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). This certifies they’ve met rigorous standards for education, training, and ethics in plastic surgery.
Check online reviews, ask for referrals from friends or family members, and schedule consultations with potential surgeons.
During your consultation, ask about their experience with breast augmentation, the types of breast implants they use, and their approach to achieving the look you want.
Pay attention to how comfortable you feel with the surgeon and their staff. Do they listen to your concerns and answer your questions clearly? Do you feel confident in their abilities?
Breast Augmentation Complications
What potential risks and complications should you be aware of as you move forward with your breast augmentation procedure?
Like any surgical operation, breast augmentation carries some risks and complications. Understanding these potential issues is vital to make an informed decision.
Some possible complications of breast augmentation include:
- Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL), a rare type of cancer linked to breast implants
- Breast implant illness, a term used to describe a range of symptoms, including fatigue, joint pain, and memory loss, which some women attribute to their implants
- Breast pain, which can be caused by implant rupture, capsular contracture, or other factors
- Infection, which can occur with any surgical procedure
- The need for breast implant removal surgery, which may be necessary in cases of implant rupture or other complications
Discussing these potential complications with your surgeon is vital to understand the risks and benefits associated with breast augmentation. By being aware of these potential issues, you can make a more informed decision about your procedure.
Silicone Vs Saline Implants
Your surgeon will likely discuss the two main types of breast implants with you: silicone and saline, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Silicone breast implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel that mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. They’re known for their natural look and feel, and are often preferred by women who want a more subtle enhancement.
On the other hand, saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater and are generally less expensive than silicone implants. Saline implant rupture is more noticeable than silicone implant rupture, as the implant will deflate quickly, allowing for prompt removal and replacement.
Silicone gel implants, including gummy bear breast implants, are more expensive, but they offer a more natural look and feel.
Your surgeon will help you weigh the pros and cons of each option and determine which one is best for you based on your individual needs and preferences. Ultimately, the decision between saline and silicone implants depends on your personal comfort level and aesthetic goals.
Gummy Bear Implant Option
Gummy bear breast implants, also known as cohesive silicone gel implants, offer a unique advantage over traditional silicone implants: they maintain their shape even when cut. This means that if your implant is damaged or ruptured, the silicone gel will stay in place, reducing the risk of leakage or migration. As a result, you can enjoy a more natural-looking and feeling breast augmentation.
Gummy bear implants have a more cohesive gel that holds its shape, giving you a more natural feel.
The firmer gel reduces the risk of visible wrinkles or ripples under your skin.
Gummy bear implants are a newer type of implant that offers improved performance and safety.
The silicone gel inside gummy bear implants is designed to mimic the feel of natural breast tissue.
With gummy bear implants, you can rest assured that your implant will maintain its shape and integrity, even in the unlikely event of a rupture.
Smooth Vs Textured Implants
When choosing a breast implant, you’ll also need to weigh the pros and cons of smooth vs textured implants, as it can affect the implant’s behavior and interaction with your body.
Smooth breast implants have a smooth surface, which can move more naturally with your body, but may be more prone to rippling or wrinkling.
On the other hand, breast implants with textured surfaces have a rougher exterior, which can help them stay in place and reduce the risk of capsular contracture, a complication that can occur during the breast implant procedure.
Both saline or silicone implants can be either smooth or textured, so you’ll need to think carefully about your individual needs and goals when making a decision.
Bear in mind that breast augmentation is a surgical procedure, and choosing the right implant can impact your overall satisfaction with the results.
Your surgeon can help you determine which type of implant is best for you, taking into account factors like your body type, skin tone, and personal preferences.
Round Breast Implant Benefits
Rounding out your implant options, consider the benefits of round breast implants, which can provide a more natural look and feel. When it comes to breast augmentation, round implants are a popular choice, and for good reason. They offer a softer, more natural appearance, which can be especially beneficial for women with a smaller breast shape.
They provide a more natural-looking breast shape, with a softer, more subtle curve. Round implants are less likely to cause visible rippling or wrinkling, which can be a concern with other implant types. They can be filled with a variety of materials, including saline and silicone gel. Round implants are often more comfortable, as they conform to the natural shape of your breast. They can be used in a variety of breast augmentation procedures, including primary and revision surgeries.
Ultimately, the decision to choose round breast implants will depend on your individual needs and goals. By discussing your options with your surgeon, you can determine if round implants are the right choice for you.
Breast Augmentation Recovery Time
You’ll likely spend several days recovering from breast augmentation surgery, during which time you’ll need to prioritize rest and follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully. This is vital for a smooth and successful recovery.
Your surgeon may prescribe pain medication to manage any discomfort or pain you may experience in the days after surgery.
It’s essential to have a support system in place, as you’ll need help with daily tasks, such as cooking and cleaning. You should also avoid heavy lifting, bending, or strenuous activities for several weeks.
As a breast augmentation patient, you’ll need to attend follow-up appointments with your surgeon to verify that your recovery is progressing as expected.
Breast implant surgery may involve some bruising, swelling, and scarring, which will subside over time.
Your surgeon will provide you with a detailed recovery plan, which you should follow closely to minimize any potential complications. By doing so, you’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of your breast augmentation and get back to your normal routine in no time.
Cost and Insurance Factors
The cost of breast augmentation surgery varies widely, depending on factors such as the surgeon’s fee, hospital costs, and the type of implants chosen. As you weigh the financial implications of breast augmentation, factor in the costs carefully. On average, the procedure can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 or more.
Keep in mind that insurance typically doesn’t cover cosmetic surgery, including breast augmentation. However, if you’re undergoing reconstructive surgery, your insurance may cover part or all of the costs. It’s vital to check with your insurance provider to understand what’s covered and what’s not.
Some key factors to bear in mind when calculating the cost of breast augmentation include:
- Surgeon’s fee
- Hospital or surgery center costs
- Type and quality of breast implant
- Location and geographic area
- Any additional procedures, such as breast lift or nipple-areola complex reconstruction
Long-Term Breast Augmentation Results
After considering the financial investment, you’re likely wondering what to expect from breast augmentation in the long run. While it’s necessary to understand the upfront costs, it’s equally important to know what to anticipate in the years following your procedure.
The truth is, breast implants aren’t guaranteed to last a lifetime. They may need to be replaced or removed due to complications, such as rupture, capsular contracture, or scar tissue formation.
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved. Complications of breast augmentation can include implant rupture, asymmetry, or breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL), a rare type of cancer.
It’s imperative to maintain regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your breast implant’s condition and address any concerns promptly.
Despite these potential issues, many women enjoy long-term satisfaction with their breast augmentation results. By choosing a qualified surgeon and following their post-operative instructions, you can minimize the risk of complications and enjoy the benefits of your breast implant for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Breastfeed After Breast Augmentation Surgery?
You’re probably wondering if you can breastfeed after getting breast implants. The good news is that you likely can, but it depends on the type of implant and incision used, as well as your individual anatomy.
Will Breast Implants Affect My Ability to Get Mammograms?
You’ll be relieved to know that breast implants won’t prevent you from getting mammograms, but you’ll need to inform your radiologist about the implants so they can adjust the screening process accordingly.
Can I Have Breast Augmentation With Other Cosmetic Procedures?
You’re considering combining breast augmentation with other cosmetic procedures, which is definitely possible. You can pair it with a tummy tuck, liposuction, or facial rejuvenation, but it’s essential you discuss your goals with your surgeon to guarantee a safe and effective combo.
How Long Do I Need to Avoid Heavy Exercise After Surgery?
You’ll need to avoid heavy exercise for 4-6 weeks after surgery, as it can increase the risk of bleeding, swelling, and implant displacement. You’ll get clearance from your doctor to resume your normal exercise routine.
Will Breast Implants Set off Airport Security Scanners?
You’re wondering if your new breast implants will trigger airport security scanners. Don’t worry, it’s unlikely they’ll set off alarms, but be prepared to show your implant ID card or doctor’s note to avoid any issues.
Conclusion
You’re about to discover a life of unstoppable confidence, radiant beauty, and a body that makes you feel like a total rockstar!
With the right breast augmentation, you’ll be turning heads, breaking necks, and owning every room you walk into.
Your newfound self-assurance will be aacontagious, inspiring others to chase their own dreams.
So, take the leap and get ready to reveal the best version of yourself on the world!