Around the world, breast augmentation surgery is one of the most popular cosmetic alterations women choose for themselves. In 2013 nearly 300,000 breast augmentation surgeries were performed in the United States alone. This is partly due to a societal perception of beauty that encourages women to strive for a particular body standard, and partly because it’s becoming an increasingly simple and painless surgery to perform. In most cases, recovery time is less than a week and discomfort is minimal.
If you’re considering breast augmentation surgery, you have a number of decisions to make prior to the procedure, including:
Surgeon
First, the basics: choose a doctor with American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) certification in the field of plastic surgery and current American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) membership. This assures you that your doctor is held in good standing within the medical community.
Next, you’ll want to find someone you work well with. Your surgeon should go through all the various options, explain each step in the process carefully, and answer all of your questions. You should have a good enough rapport that you don’t feel too intimidated to voice concerns or ask for additional information about any aspect of the procedure.
Cup Size
While this may be the reason for the surgery in the first place, a lot of patients struggle to identify the perfect breast size for their body types. Your surgeon will be your best ally in this decision, and should lead you to a healthy choice that works well with your frame, your lifestyle, and your appearance goals.
Using imaging technology and an implant sizing session, you can “try out” various breast sizes before making a final decision. At your implant sizing session, you’ll be given a special bra that fits a variety of sizes, shapes, and profiles of implant to help you see how each implant changes your silhouette.
Type
You’ll need to choose either silicone and saline implants. Most patients (72%) choose silicone, which are considered softer, lighter and have a more natural texture. They also have a lower deflation rate and less rippling. However, these benefits cost more, and some patients prefer the saving money and the smaller incision of saline implants.
Incision
Technique and equipment advances have made it possible for surgeons to greatly reduce the appearance of scars after breast augmentation surgery. The three standard areas for incision are under the breast fold, around the areola, or under the armpit. You can work with your doctor to determine which of the three best suits your body type, implant choice and lifestyle.
Get in touch with our office if you’re considering breast augmentation surgery. We’re happy to offer additional information on your options or to answer any questions you may have.