When considering Breast Augmentation, there are many aspects to research. It is our goal to help patients considering surgery to sift through the seemingly endless information available online and provide the most relevant facts about surgery and the surgical process. To this end, we have put a list together called “Breast Augmentation – The four “S” Words You Need to Know.” It is a few items that we feel are most important when approaching a surgical decision.
SAFETY
Beware of bargain breast augmentation. There are many physicians with no formal training in breast surgery (or any plastic surgery for that matter) performing breast augmentation and while this may save a little money on the front end, the end result is likely to be unsatisfactory and can be downright dangerous. We always urge patients to schedule surgery with a board certified plastic surgeon (by the American Board of Plastic Surgery). According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons 2013 Plastic Surgery Statistics, 290,244 breast augmentations were performed in the United States. There is safety in numbers; more and more women are opting for breast enhancement and therefore solidifying the safety of breast augmentation surgery.
SALINE OR SILICONE IMPLANTS?
Over 70% of patients choose silicone implants for their breast enhancement surgeries. Saline implants gained popularity when the first genereation silicone implants were comprised of a more liquid and less cohesive gel and were under scrutiny. Today, silicone gel implants are much more cohesive and subjected to rigorous FDA testing for safety and efficacy. The silicone gel remains in the breast pocket even if ruptured and has a lower rupture, rippling and capsular contracture rate than does the saline implant.
SIZE
Simultaneously the greatest point of excitement and anxiety for many patients, determining the right implant size can be difficult. Many patients who desire Nashville plastic surgery wish to have a more natural appearing look than patients having surgery in Miami. That being said, we also often hear “I want to get my money’s worth” too. Your body type, anatomy, lifestyle, skin stretch, and other factors all help determine the perfect implant size for you. During consultation, Dr. Burgdorf takes these factors into account along with taking breast measurements and a sizing session in which the patient is an active participant in the selection process.
SURGICAL INCISION SITE
The majority of patients desire a discreet surgical result both in implant size/look and final scar. There are many breast augmentation incisions available, but the most widely used is the inframammary incision (under the breast). This is Dr. Burgdorf’s preferred incision due to safety reasons, increased placement precision and the ability to hide the scar well there. Dr. Burgdorf will determine the most appropriate incision approach for you during your personal consultation.
