About Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation aims to surgically increase breast size using implants. Although fat can be used, it has some limitations and implants are the predominant method for achieving optimal breast enlargement. Augmentation can be done to enlarge small breasts, fill in breast volume lost after pregnancy and childbirth, or correct existing asymmetry. If you are interested in receiving a breast augmentation, call Solomon Plastic Surgery in Frisco, TX to set up a private consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Matthias Solomon.
Saline vs Gel Implants
Gel implants feel more natural and are typically preferred by most women. In the past, older gels resembled thick oil and if the outer membrane holding the gel in place had a tear, the gel would leak into the breast pocket. However, medical studies have not found an increase in the incidence of an autoimmune disease even with leaked gel implants. Today, newer gel implants are more cohesive and even with a tear in the outer membrane, it is not supposed to leak or flow out. Gels also have less rippling and are more durable.
Saline implants feel less natural and can ripple more. However, advantages include the ability to place them through smaller incisions, the possibility of varying the filling volume during placement (adjustability), and a clear indication if an implant has ruptured. When ruptured, the saline is absorbed and the affected side is smaller. It is frequently perceived as the safer alternative. The FDA recommends an MRI screening every few years with gel, but not for saline implants.
Procedure Technique
Breast augmentation is performed under general anesthesia in an accredited surgical facility and typically takes about two hours. It can be done using various approaches which includes placing the incision in the fold under the breast, the armpit, the margin of the areola, or the belly button. Using one of these incision approaches, Dr. Solomon will make a pocket (space) to place the implant. The creation of an ideal pocket will aid in optimal augmentation results. For this reason, the incision is usually placed in the fold under the breast so the pocket can be made more accurately.
Implant Location
Implants can be placed below the muscle (submuscular) or on top of the muscle (subglandular). Each have its own advantages and drawbacks.
Submuscular: Implants are placed under the muscle for various reasons. The muscle supports the implant with a lower chance of breast tissue thinning and sagging with time. Mammogram interpretation is also easier as the implant is beneath the muscle. In addition, there is a lower chance of long-term scar tissue formation and visible implant ripples. Submuscular placement also prevents an abrupt transition of the implant over the upper part of the breast to give a more natural appearance.
Subglandular: Implants take less operative time, are less painful, and may be ideal for athletic women who need to use the pectoralis muscles. However, there is less support, which means there is a greater chance of tissue thinning and sagging.
What to Expect
Although breast augmentation is a surgical procedure, patients will be able to go home the same day after about several hours of monitoring and will be given post-operative care instructions. Typically, patients will experience swelling, bruising, and muscle stiffness after their procedure but these symptoms will subside in time. Generally, patients can return to work after about 3 – 5 days, but strenuous activity should be restricted for 4 – 6 weeks. Dr. Solomon does not use ACE wraps or compressive garments after the procedure, as he likes the implants to settle down naturally in the first few weeks after surgery without any straps to push the implants down.
Other Considerations
Although breast augmentation can provide a small amount of lift, most women with saggy breasts may need a lift in addition to implants. Sometimes, larger implants can be placed to produce a greater lift in order to avoid a mastopexy (breast lift), but this strategy is a short-term approach that may lead to long-term issues.
Although current implants are very durable, rupture can occur at any time (especially with age) and will require a surgical change of implants. Long-term complications are often unrelated to the surgeon or the initial implant surgery. These include capsular contracture, implant rupture, changes in breast tissue secondary to the weight of the implants, and natural aging of the breast over the implant. These changes require surgical intervention that is not typically covered by insurance. Patients who are considering a breast augmentation surgery should have realistic expectations and should consider these financial implications.
Every woman is built differently and some have breasts that are placed wider apart. Although modern techniques can create the appearance of the breasts being closer with a natural result, anatomical constraints may not allow the creation of an ideal cleavage in such persons. There is no standardization of breast cup sizes — different bra companies vary in their cup sizes. Although it is possible to achieve the preferred cup size with the placement of a certain size implant in a given person, this is only an approximation.
Enhanced Breast
If you are unhappy with your breast size and shape, call Solomon Plastic Surgery in Dallas, TX today. We can help you achieve that full, sexy look that you desire and discuss the pros and cons of saline vs. gel implants to see which option is best for you.
Your Consultation with Dr. Solomon
During your consultation, Dr. Solomon will talk with you about your expectations, whether you are a good candidate for breast augmentation, and what to expect during and after surgery, including potential side effects. Contact Dr. Solomon’s office to schedule your consult.
For More Information Contact Us
For more information on Plastic Surgery and Non-Surgical Medical Spa Procedures and Treatments in Offices in Dallas, Frisco, Sherman, Texas and surrounding areas please contact the offices of Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Matthias Solomon by clicking here or calling 214-983-0213.
Serving patients in Highland park, University Park, Preston Hollow, McKinney, Prosper, Allen, Southlake, Denton, Irving, Flower mound, Little Elm, Fort Worth, Texas and surrounding areas.
