Breast Augmentation Options — Achieve Your Ideal Results

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Andrew Smith, MD, FACS, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Breast augmentation remains the most sought-after plastic surgery procedure in the United States. Because of  significant advancements  in the type and texture of implants, simulating natural breast tissue as accurately as possible is simpler than ever. Recent improvements in surgical techniques also help minimize scars, lessen recovery time, and reduce risks.

At Andrew Smith MD FACS, we personalize every procedure to satisfy the patient’s concerns and aesthetic goals. Dr. Andrew Smith himself performs hundreds of breast augmentations each year. His credentials, experience, and familiarity with different techniques will help achieve your “perfect” outcome.

Why Should I Consider Breast Augmentation?

Breast enhancement surgery is ideal for women unhappy with the appearance of their breasts. The top three benefits of breast augmentation in CA will help you attain:

• Youthful, Lifted, Beautiful Breasts. Gravitational pull and aging are two primary causes of breast sagging. Years of gravitational pull takes its toll on the human body, especially on women with larger breasts. And as a woman ages, the ligaments that make up the breast tissue stretch and lose elasticity. To correct sagging breasts, women may undergo breast augmentation to enjoy sensual breasts no matter their age.

• Larger and Perkier Breasts. In some cultures, a bigger and more prominent bustline is desirable. The design behind breast augmentation is to increase the mass of the breasts, creating a fuller and more voluptuous form.

• Customized Results. Breast enhancement and its results are customizable to help you achieve your cosmetic objectives. During your consultation with Dr. Smith, you will have the opportunity to express your wishes, including the implant type, shape, size, and other vital decisions that will complement your body and lifestyle.

What Are My Options?

Before you book your breast augmentation procedure, it is important to discuss the following with your plastic surgeon:

1. Implant Type: Saline vs. Silicone

You have the option to choose between saline breast implants and pre-filled cohesive silicone gel implants. In the former, a plastic surgeon must fill the implants with a sterile saline solution during surgery.

Today, the majority of patients prefer silicone implants because of their natural look and feel. Saline is an option if you want perkier, more “fake” looking breasts. Both implant types are FDA-approved, meaning they are safe and effective choices for breast augmentation. The size and incision location are the only two factors that may affect whether saline or silicone will be the best selection for you.

2. Implant Projection, Width, Size, and Shape

Implant projection, otherwise known as implant profile, refers to how distant the breasts project from the body. During your consultation, you and your plastic surgeon will work together to choose the best width, size, and shape of implant for your body, as well as ensure the results you desire. Anatomically shaped implants known as “teardrop” often provide more natural-looking results than conventional round implants. However, they have a higher chance of moving in the breast pocket.

3. Implant Surface: Textured vs. Smooth

Most implants used today are smooth surfaced implants. Textured implants involve a rough surface. Its purpose is to adhere to the surrounding breast tissue, preventing it from slipping and sliding in the breast pocket. Smooth implants often cost less than textured varieties, but they are equally as effective.

4. Implant Placement

Breast implants reside either beneath the pectoral muscle or above it. The pectoral muscle is large and fan-shaped, stretching from the armpit up to the collarbone, then down across the lower chest area on both sides of the chest.

Both placement options can produce natural-looking results and are acceptable for all types of implants. The most appropriate choice will depend on your chest width, amount of natural breast tissue, aesthetic preferences, and lifestyle.

5. Incision Location

There are four different breast augmentation incisions, including:

• Inframammary Incision. The most common incision location is within the breast fold. Also known as the inframammary fold, it is the crease where the breast meets the body. Most plastic surgeons recommend this site because similar to a periareolar incision, it offers direct access to the breast pocket and allows for more precise implant positioning. Further, the technique presents a lower risk of breastfeeding difficulties and changes in nipple sensation.

• Periareolar Incision. A periareolar incision occurs halfway around the lower edge of the areola (nipple). It can be ideal for concealing an incision scar, which may blend in or remain hidden by the somewhat “bumpy” texture and darker pigment of the areola. This is a good technique for tuberous breasts and patients with a very short lower pole of the breast.

• Transaxillary Incision. Plastic surgeons perform transaxillary incisions through the armpit. In this method, a tunnel to the breast is created to form a pocket for implant insertion. A flexible tube with an attached camera (endoscope) will allow your doctor to see and position your implant. Saline implants work best when using the transaxillary approach since they are smaller compared to pre-filled silicone implants. This technique is not as common now that most implants are silicone. No scars will appear on the breast — only in the armpit.

• Transumbilical Incision or TUBA. The transumbilical incision (TUBA) is the least popular approach due to its location — the belly button. The technique leaves an almost untraceable scar hiding within the fold of the navel. TUBA requires complex tunneling for indirect access to the breasts, making it difficult to get the accurate placement of the implants. One common risk with this technique is poorly positioned implants and abnormal looking results. Due to its high complication rate, most plastic surgeons do not perform transumbilical incisions.

If you are looking into breast augmentation, Dr. Andrew Smith is happy to discuss your options and help you develop a customized surgical plan that addresses your needs and desires. He will make your decision-making process as smooth and educational as possible, so be sure to communicate your goals and concerns. Together, you will arrive at the procedural steps that will help achieve your anticipated breast augmentation results.

For more in-depth information about your breast augmentation options or to book a consultation, please contact us by dialing (949) 288-4651 or complete our online form.