Breast Augmentation
About Breast Augmentation Surgery
These surgeries are ideal for those who have recently lost weight, have given birth, are self-conscious about their breasts or notice significant differences between their breast sizes.
Take the time to answer any questions regarding the procedure.
- You will require anesthesia.
- Incisions are made either around the areola or in the armpit.
- The breast implant is placed underneath the pectoral muscle.
- Breast implants can be filled with either saline or silicone gel. Your doctor will explain the differences and suggest which would be appropriate for you.
Procedure Methods
Breast implants are placed either over or under the muscle. Many factors will determine which placement is best for you including body type and existing breast tissue and desired results.
Both saline and silicone implants can be inserted through a variety of incisions. While being experienced in all methods of the breast augmentation procedure, our doctors are specialists in the Endoscopic Axillary Technique. This procedure leaves no scars on the breasts and ensures the quickest recovery possible.
Saline vs. Silicone Breast Implants
The major difference between saline and silicone implants is what they are filled with. Saline implants consist of an empty shell that is filled with sterile saline (salt water) solution at the time of surgery. Silicone implants also have a silicone shell but are filled with a cohesive, silicone gel. Most surgeons and patients agree that silicone implants look and feel more natural, while saline implants are firmer and less natural.
In the event of rupture, saline implants don’t impose any immediate danger as salt water is not toxic to the body and will rapidly absorb, causing the implant to noticeably deflate. When a silicone implant ruptures, it may go unnoticed as the silicone is not initially absorbed by the body. While there’s no evidence that leaking silicone gel causes serious, long-term health problems, a ruptured silicone breast implant may eventually cause breast pain or changes in shape of the breast. Both ruptured saline and silicone and implants can be removed and replaced with surgery.
There are currently three manufacturers that market FDA-approved implants in the United States. Prior to March of 2012, only Allergan and Mentor had the approval of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to sell silicone implants in the United States. Since March, a third company, Sientra has been marketing high-strength, cohesive silicone implants that are semi-solid and maintains their shape. Implants made of this type of silicone are sometimes referred to as “gummy bear” implants because when cut, they adhere just as gummy bear candy would.
The FDA requires that women be at least 18 years old to get breast augmentation with saline-filled implants, and at least 22 years old to receive silicone implants.
Good Candidates For Breast Augmentation Surgery
- You are self-conscious of breast size.
- Excessive weight loss or pregnancy has changed the size and shape of your breasts.
- You have difficulty in finding clothing that fits proportionately.
- You have significant asymmetry in breasts.
If you are considering breast augmentation surgery, you must be fully developed, physically and emotionally healthy, and have realistic expectations of your surgery.
For more information about having a breast augmentation in Miami, FL with Miami Plastic Surgery call today.
Your Breast Augmentation Consultation
During your initial consultation, you will meet with the plastic surgeon and staff. Your previous surgeries, your medical history, medications you are presently taking, and your overall physical and emotional health will be reviewed. Your skin quality will also be evaluated. Photographs may be taken for your medical record. Your surgeon will determine what you benefit from most and whether or not additional procedures will be necessary for you to achieve your desired results. Recovery time, risks and limitations associated with surgery will be also be discussed. The doctor’s patient coordinator will review surgical costs and scheduling with you.