Breast Augmentation Options

When I meet with patients who are considering breast augmentation in Seattle, I listen very carefully to each individual’s desires and needs.  I believe it is essential to customize every procedure for each patient.  For example, I discuss considerations such as implant type, size, shape, and incision location.  That way, I can ensure that my patients have the beautiful results they deserve.

Here are some of the options you have:

Implant type

The first decision involves whether you prefer saline or silicone implants. Both implant types are FDA approved and safe, with different characteristics and benefits:

Silicone implants feel more like natural breast tissue than saline implants, which many women desire. They are less prone to rippling or shifting once inside the breast than saline implants.  However, silicone implants are more expensive, and if the implant shell should ever fail, it is silicone gel that can leak out, not saline.
Saline implants allow for some size adjustment during your surgery.  If your surgeon places saline implants into your breasts and determines that there is some asymmetry, the implant fill can be adjusted to obtain better symmetry. With silicone implants, this sort of size adjustment is not possible.  

To help you decide between implant types, ask your surgeon to explain the differences between them during your consultation.  Make certain that you understand the pros and cons of each type.

Implant size and shape

Several steps are involved in choosing the appropriate implant size and shape for your body and desired outcome. First, I discuss your goals for the appearance of your breasts after augmentation, to understand what you hope to achieve in terms of size and shape, and review any special concerns you might have about augmentation surgery. Next, I do a comprehensive breast exam assessing your breast size, shape, location, and symmetry. The distribution of breast tissue, skin quality, conditions such as breast ptosis (sagging) and chest wall deformities are also evaluated. By taking the time to perform this thorough evaluation, and making sure that I understand your desired outcome, we can choose which an implant size and shape is best suited for you both technically and aesthetically.

Incision location

Many women who undergo breast augmentation are concerned about the scar from placement of the implant. Most scars heal quickly and fade, so your scars are usually minimally visible no matter where they are. There are several options for incision location and risks and benefits for each.

Periareolar incision: The incision is made at the border of the dark skin surrounding the nipple, so the scar is difficult to see. But some areolas fade very gradually so there is no distinct border and the scar is more visible.
Transaxillary incision:  The incision is made in the patient’s armpit, and the implant is inserted into a pocket created under the muscle. This approach is done with an endoscope to insure accuracy and minimize any bleeding.
Inframammary incision: The incision is made in the inframammary fold (the fold beneath the breasts), so that the scar is hidden by the breast after surgery. This is the most direct approach for placing an implant under the muscle.

 

Getting your breast augmentation right

Careful consideration of all these factors before having plastic surgery in Seattle can help ensure you get the results you want. It’s also essential to choose a surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, who has the experience and skills required to achieve the aesthetically pleasing, beautifully shaped breasts you desire.  Unfortunately, an increasing number of unqualified physicians are misrepresenting themselves as breast augmentation experts while truly lacking the education and experience needed to deliver consistent aesthetically pleasing results.  A growing part of my practice is performing secondary surgery for women who were dissatisfied with the results of their initial surgery elsewhere. So it is very important to carefully research the qualifications and experience of the surgeon you are considering to have perform your surgery.  

Be sure to take the time needed to select a qualified individual for your Seattle plastic surgery.