If you’re not satisfied with the size or shape of your breasts, you’re in good company. Millions of women before you have felt the same way — but they were ready to do something about it. That’s why breast augmentation is one of the most common plastic surgeries worldwide.
Just like you, many women are curious about breast augmentation but don’t know where to start when it comes to research. To give you a good jumping-off point, we’ve rounded up some of the most frequently asked questions that we receive about breast augmentation.
1. What Is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure in which the breasts are made to look larger by inserting some kind of implant. Implants can be inserted under the breast tissue but above the pectoral muscle or below both the breast tissue and underlying pectoral muscle.
This procedure is commonly referred to as implant surgery to easily differentiate it from other types of breast enhancement methods.
2. How Is Breast Augmentation Surgery Performed?
At Legacy Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics, breast augmentation surgery is performed under general anesthesia by one of our world-renowned plastic surgeons.
Once you are under anesthesia, our surgeon will make small incisions at the agreed-upon sites, gently insert your implants, and manipulate them into the proper position.
A few different types of incisions can be utilized for breast augmentation surgery. We will discuss all of your options when you come in for a consultation and help you determine which is best for you.
The procedure typically takes about an hour, but surgery time could be longer if you combine your breast augmentation with other procedures.
3. What Are the Different Types of Breast Implants?
At Legacy Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics, we offer three different types of breast implants for you to choose from. They are:
- Silicone implants
- Saline implants
- Gummy bear implants
More information on each type of implant can be found below.
Silicone Implants
Silicone implants are what most people think of when they think about breast implants. These implants consist of a silicone shell with silicone gel on the inside. They are often touted as one of the most natural-feeling options, but they aren’t everyone’s cup of tea.
Saline Implants
Saline implants are made of a silicone shell, which is usually inserted through a small incision in the underarm area. Once the implants are in, one of our doctors will fill them with a sterilized saline solution until they are the proper size and shape.
Some women prefer saline because, in the event of a rupture, your body just reabsorbs the saline. In contrast, a silicone rupture can lead to other complications.
Gummy Bear Implants
Gummy bear implants are one of the most recent innovations in the world of breast augmentation. They are made from a silicone shell that is filled with a thick gel that closely mimics human fat.
These implants have gained a lot of popularity in recent years because they provide natural-feeling results that are similar to silicone implants, but many people prefer the more natural shape of gummy bear implants compared to the rounder traditional silicone implants.
4. What Size Implant Should You Get?
The answer to this question is highly personal and cannot be answered without consulting with a plastic surgeon. Some women only want to go up one cup size, while others want a more dramatic change.
In general, we leave the size of the implants up to you, as long as your body and frame can support them.
During your consultation, we will advise you on what we think would look most natural and proportional to your frame, but the final decision is in your hands.
5. Who Is a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation?
At Legacy Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics, we always look at breast augmentation candidates on a case-by-case basis. We do not generalize and say any healthy woman can walk in and get breast implants.
In general, a good candidate for breast augmentation is someone who:
- Is in good overall health
- Is at least 18 years old (22 for silicone implants)
- Is not happy with the size or shape of their breasts
- Has the proper amount of time to recover
- Has realistic expectations
- Is not pregnant or breastfeeding
An example of a good candidate for breast augmentation might be a mother who is done having kids and has been left with a significant loss in breast tissue and volume after breastfeeding.
6. How Long Do Breast Implants Last?
There’s a common misconception that once breast implants are in, they are good for the rest of your life. The truth is that no implants are meant to last forever. However, they do last a long time.
Breast implants typically last 10 to 15 years, after which you will likely need a revision to maintain your desired look.
7. What Happens at a Breast Augmentation Consultation?
When you come to Legacy Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics for a breast augmentation consultation, you will immediately be greeted by one of our friendly team members. From there, you’ll be escorted to an exam room where one of our doctors will review your medical history and discuss your expectations.
If you are a good candidate, this is also when we will discuss what type of implants you want, what size is best for your frame, what kind of incisions are best for you, how to prepare for surgery, and what to expect after surgery.
If you believe you’re a good candidate, give us a call today to schedule a consultation time that works for you.
