Breast augmentation continues to be one of the most popular cosmetic procedures for women in the US and worldwide with a very high satisfaction rate. I think the key to getting a great result is communication: the patient has to let the surgeon know what they want in terms of size, feel, and look, and the surgeon has to let the patient know what is possible in their particular case and what it will take to get there. When there is clear communication, the results tend to be fantastic and patients are very happy, so here are three things to consider when going in for your consultation:
Saline or Silicone: Which one will work best for me?
Both Saline and Silicone implants are available, and there are advantages and disadvantages to both. Nationwide about 60% of patients choose silicone implants, and in my practice, that number is higher, closer to 90%. My patients tell me that the main reason they choose silicone is the look and feel– if you want the most natural look and feel, especially if you’re really thin, in most cases, silicone is the better option. At the consultation, we show you the different kinds of implants so you can feel them and this usually helps patients with their decision process.
What size implant should I choose?
The size of the implant that you ultimately select is based on a number of factors. These include your starting size and what size cup you want to be after the procedure, the width of your chest and the width of your breasts, and finally what we think your body could safely accommodate and would give you the results you want. For most patients, there are several implant sizes that would work well for them, and this is where communication is really important. I also think it’s helpful for patients to hold and even try on a few implants in a bra and T-shirt to get a sense at least of what their look will be, and ultimately it’s a decision we make together.
Do I need a breast lift also?
This is a really common question and one that requires some time to go over, but the bottom line in my opinion is this: if you need a lift, you should probably get one. Some patients are told that just having an implant, if they go big enough, will lift the breast significantly, and unfortunately, this is not the case. Patients are concerned about the extra incisions associated with a lift, but in most cases, patients are much happier with the improved shape of the breast with the lift, and the incisions fade significantly with time.
So breast augmentation is a very personal decision, but an exciting one for patients as well, and we can help you with the decision by going over all of your options with you, showing you before and after photos of women with similar body types and goals, and making sure all of your questions are answered– this way you’ll have all the information you need to make your decision and get great results!
