If you are unsatisfied with your figure, then you can enhance your overall body contour with cosmetic procedures. Many women in the Waltham area choose to undergo breast augmentation for a fuller and more appealing chest contour. While some women choose to have breast augmentation for more fullness, there are others who have the procedure to fix uneven breasts or correct other conditions. If you are thinking about getting this procedure, then it can be helpful to understand what the procedure entails.
Before the surgery, you will need to choose the size, shape, and material of your implants. The materials that are used for implants include:
Saline: Saline breast implants are made with sterile salt water. This type of implant offers an even shape and uniform firmness and feel. There are times when saline implants can be inserted when they are deflated, which means there will typically be less scarring.
Structured Saline: This type of implant is made with sterile salt water but has an inner structure that makes the implant feel more natural. Structured saline and saline implants come in a variety of sizes that typically range form 150 cc to 850 cc.
Silicone: Silicone implants are filled with a silicone gel. Silicone implants look and feel natural.
Gummy Bear Implants: These are so-called because their texture is similar to a gummy bear. They have a very natural look and feel.
There are three variations of implants: round, smooth, and textured. With round implants, the breasts look fuller than form-stable breast implants. These implants are the same shape all over, which means they are less likely to move out of place. Smooth breast implants can move within the breast implant pocket and tend to be the softest-feeling. These implants offer more natural movement than form-stable implants. With textured implants, scar tissue will form around the implant to help keep them stable. Textured implants are beneficial because they can reduce the risk of capsular contraction.
Who are Ideal Candidates for Breast Augmentation?
Good candidates for breast augmentation will be in good general health, and it is also important that you have realistic outcomes about the procedure and results. Here are some other factors that may make you an ideal candidate for breast augmentation:
- Your breasts are fully developed.
- Your breasts are losing volume.
- You have asymmetrical breasts.
- You are dissatisfied with the size of your breasts.
You should keep in mind that while breast augmentation creates more fullness, it will not lift the breasts. If you have sagging breasts, then a breast lift with breast augmentation may offer the best results. Or you may only need a breast lift procedure to achieve the results you desire.
What is the Procedure Like?
To prepare for breast augmentation, you will need to have a medical evaluation and undergo other tests. You may need to adjust your current medications until recovery is complete. For instance, it is important to avoid any anti-inflammatory medications and certain herbal supplements for a set amount of time before the procedure. We will discuss in detail your medical history and current medications during your consultation with us to ensure that you are completely prepared for the procedure.
Breast augmentations can be administered at a hospital or outpatient surgical center. It is important to arrange for a ride home once you are done at the facility. You will be given medication to keep you comfortable during the procedure. Breast implants are administered under anesthesia.
There are different common incisions that are used for breast augmentation, which include transaxillary, periareolar, inframammary, and transumbilical. With the transaxillary technique, a small incision is made at the crease of the armpit. This is an ideal technique for women who have not previously had breast augmentation. The transaxillary approach is also suitable for women who don’t need a breast lift, and it may be the best option for those who want saline implants. With this approach, you won’t have as much, if any, visible scarring on the breasts. If you plan to breastfeed, this approach won’t cause any complications when the time comes.
The periareolar incision is made at the edge of the nipple (areolar). The central location of the incisions allows for easy placement of the implants, and the incisions are very small so scarring is nearly invisible.
The inframammary incision has numerous advantages as well. This technique, which is often referred to as the crease incision, is the most common technique that is used with breast augmentation. The incision is made under the crease of the breast where the chest wall and breast meet. This technique is so popular because women with moderate volume can still easily conceal the scarring. Like the transaxillary approach, this technique will not affect breastfeeding in the future.
With the transumbilical technique, an incision is made in the belly button or navel. With a specialized instrument, a tunnel will be created to move the implants up to the breasts. Although this technique offers minimal scarring, recovery time with this technique will be a bit longer than the aforementioned approaches.
This is just a general overview. We understand that each patient has different needs, so we will discuss the various incision options we have available and help you determine which is best for your needs.
Placement of the implant will also help determine which type of incision will be used. Once the incision is made, the implant will be inserted above the chest muscle or directly behind the pectoral muscles. If you have saggy breasts, you may benefit from having the implants placed under the breast muscles. If your breasts are smaller with less tissue, then having the implants placed over the chest muscles may be a better option for your needs.
You might have heard about the option of having a fat transfer for breast enhancement. While a fat transfer to the breasts uses your own tissue, it is best for those who want a subtle enhancement. Moreover, a fat transfer to the breast is not an option for some women who don’t have enough fat for removal and transferring.
Recovery and Aftercare Following Surgery
Proper recovery and aftercare are vital for optimal results, which is why it is necessary to follow all the postoperative instructions that we give you after the procedure. During recovery, your breasts will be wrapped in a special dressing, and you will most likely need to wear a compression bra to minimize swelling and promote healing.
Immediately following the procedure, you will be monitored for a short time until you are free to leave our facility. You may be given a prescription that helps prevent any issues at the treatment sites. It is important to refrain from swimming pools, hot tubs, or baths for a set amount of time after the procedure.
While many women are ready to return to work and their normal activities fairly soon after the procedure, it is important to avoid strenuous activities that can cause an increase in your blood pressure or pulse. To help speed up your recovery, you should try to get plenty of rest following the procedure. Having someone stay with you for a few days can be extremely beneficial for the recovery. While it is important that you wear your compression bra as long as recommended, avoid underwire bras completely because they can affect the position of the implant.
You should notice the final results of the procedure in time when all of the swelling has subsided. After breast augmentation, many women have improved self-confidence. Many women choose to undergo other cosmetic procedures in conjunction with breast augmentation to further enhance their overall body shape. Popular procedures that are carried out with breast enhancement include liposuction, a tummy tuck, and a breast lift. Cosmetic surgery is highly specialized to meet the needs of each patient, and with breast augmentation, you can choose from a number of additional procedures to give you the body that you desire.
Breast implants offer lasting results. A fat transfer to the breasts is long-lasting, but if you choose this technique, then you may eventually need another procedure to maintain the results. That’s why we are proud to offer breast enhancement using various implant options.
Get Started By Scheduling an Appointment
If you want to see if you’re an ideal candidate for breast augmentation, set up a consultation at Finesse Cosmetic Surgery in Waltham. Our team welcomes the opportunity to help you achieve your aesthetic goals and gain the confidence that you want and deserve. Contact us today to book your appointment and get started. We look forward to hearing from you!