Breast Surgical Procedures
Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation, or augmentation mammoplasty, is one of the most common plastic surgery procedures performed today. Over time, factors such as age, genetics, pregnancy, weight changes, sun exposure, and gravity can cause the size and shape of the breast to change. Women who are dissatisfied with the size of their breasts, or have experienced changes in breast appearance can achieve a fuller, shapelier breast with breast augmentation. During breast augmentation, a breast implant is placed inside a pocket formed in the breast tissue. This can help to increase or balance the size of the breast, restore breast volume, or restore the shape of the breast after partial or total loss. It is important to realize that breast augmentation cannot correct significantly sagging or drooping breasts. In these instances, a breast lift is often necessary, which may be performed in conjunction with this procedure.
Implant Options/Saline
Click here to see procedure in 3-D
Saline implants are so called for the sterile saline, or salt water, solution used to fill the silicone rubber shell. This sterile saline solution contains the same salt concentration as the body, and so presents little if any health risk.
Implant Options/Silicone
Click here to see procedure in 3-D
Silicone implants, which were approved by the FDA in 2006, utilize a silicone gel inside a silicone rubber shell. There is currently no significant evidence to suggest that silicone implants increase risk of breast cancer, autoimmune disease, or connective tissue disorders.
Other Options
In addition to the substances used to fill their shell, breast implants are available in differing shapes, textures, and profiles. Breast implants may be tear-drop shaped (contoured) or round, with a standard, moderate, or high profile. The surface may be smooth or textured, and of course, breast implants vary by volume, or size. The volume, shape, texture, and profile of breast implants you and your doctor choose will depend on your body contours, the amount of breast tissue you have, your lifestyle, and the goals you have regarding the size and appearance you wish to achieve. Be certain to discuss your goals in depth with Dr. Gabriel, so that together you can choose the best breast implant option for you.
Additional Breast Procedures
- Breast Augmentation
- Breast Lift
- Breast Lift with Implants
- Breast Reconstruction
- Breast Reduction
Content courtesy of plasticsurgery.org
