We get a lot of calls, emails, and visits related to breast augmentation, and spend a good deal of time educating folks on this topic. At GLOW, we love helping our clients sort through options, and there is a lot to think about when it comes to breast augmentation.
Because of this, I thought it would be nice to put together a series of posts entitled Breast Augmentation Basics. This occasional series (final number yet to be determined!) will cover the process from beginning to end. We'll talk about what you might think about when just getting started, the consultation process, types of implants, sizing, the procedure itself, the recovery period, and things to think about after breast augmentation.
Let's get started with the very beginning, when you are just thinking about it. This may be the most important part of the whole process, and it's a great time to begin gathering information and educating yourself. There will be time to consider the size, type, and location of the implants, where to consult, and which surgeon to choose. Right now, the focus is on why.
What got you thinking about breast augmentation? Is it something you've been considering 'forever?' Are you a little self-conscious about your appearance and size, and just want to feel more confident and comfortable? Did you have a friend get breast augmentation, and now you want to do it for yourself? Maybe there is a difference in size and shape from one side to the other, or perhaps you want to look better in clothes. Maybe you feel pressure to get implants from someone close to you?
Understanding how and why you got to the point of seriously considering breast augmentation is important. This is a personal matter, and it will affect the way you look, and how you feel about your body. It should not be an impulsive decision, and there is no harm in thinking about it, and then thinking some more. The old adage to 'sleep on it' certainly applies here.
Try writing down the reasons you want breast augmentation - this will help you sort through your thoughts and motivations. Remember that there are no absolutely right or wrong answers here. One key point, though: You have to want to do it for yourself. Doing it for someone else is probably not a good idea.
This process may be brief, or it may take a while. Don't skip it, though. Understanding your reasons will help you along the way. In fact, you may decide that you really don't want breast implants, or that now is not the right time. That's an okay outcome - we'll still be here at GLOW should you change your mind!
Over the past couple of years, we have had the opportunity to discuss breast augmentation with hundreds of women and it seems to us a few questions are asked by just about everyone. One of the most common questions is “What’s the difference between saline and silicone implants?”
Ultimately, the choice of saline or silicone implants is yours. Many women feel silicone implants look and feel more natural. However, there are other important considerations as well: body type, implant placement (over or under the chest muscle) and fill volume.
Typically, thin women with smaller natural breasts with above muscle placement are going to prefer the look and feel of silicone. In the long term, silicone implants weigh less than saline and will cause less sagging. On the downside, silicone implants cost more and require a slightly larger incision. Also, in the rare event that a silicone implant leaks, it is difficult to detect.
Size and placement of the incision is understandably a common concern among patients. There are several different surgical approaches, including periaerolar (around the nipple), tranaxillary (through the arm pit), and inframammary (the bottom of the breast where the breast tissue meets the chest wall). Some even go through the belly button (though not with silicone)! Each approach has its advantages and disadvantages.
The size of incision varies based on location and implant type. Saline implants are placed “unfilled,” and typically fit through a 2.5 cm incision. Silicone implants are “filled” and incision size depends on the size of the implant and the ability to safely compress it. Larger silicone implants naturally require a larger incision.
At GLOW, we principally use the inframammary approach as we find it is well hidden, heals well, and allows us the necessary access for proper implant placement. With the recent addition of the Keller funnel to our practice, we have reduced silicone incision size to 3-4 cm. A smaller incision may mean more women choosing silicone implants.
The decision to undergo breast augmentation is a personal one, and women understandably spend a great deal of time researching options. If you would like more information regarding what to expect during and after your procedure, please feel free to contact us at any time.
Breast Augmentation-Saline
Before Augmentation After Augmentation
Breast Augmentation-Silicone
Before Augmentation After Augmentation
