Women seek breast enhancement (augmentation mammoplasty) for a variety of reasons. For many women, it is not just to increase the size of their breasts, but may be to feel more comfortable in a swimsuit or confident out of clothes. It may be to return to their pre-pregnancy shape and volume. Some aim to correct an asymmetry or abnormal breast development that has plagued them since adolescence. Whether a woman wants people to know they’ve had a “boob job” or prefers a more reserved look, Dr. Albright will assist you in achieving your specific goals with breast augmentation in San Antonio TX. Check out Before and After Photos.
And the blog article 5 Tips for Breast Augmentation Before and After Photos.
Given the variety of goals and body shapes, breast augmentation may seem a bit overwhelming. Relax! Dr. Albright, one of the best breast augmentation surgeons in San Antonio, TX, has the skills and experience to walk you through the options that are best for you. He will explain breast implants and augmentation techniques in a way that makes sense. Breast lift, Breast Augmentation with Breast Lift, or Breast Fat Graft might be another option for you. Dr. Albright takes the time to explain the relative risks and benefits of different breast augmentation techniques so you can make the best decision for you. Check out Dr. Albright's YouTube video for a brief introduction to Breast Augmentation.
Schedule an appointment today with Dr. William Albright at Alamo Plastic Surgery, a top plastic surgeon in San Antonio, Texas.
What is Breast Augmentation?
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the size, shape, or fullness of the breasts. This is typically done using either saline or silicone breast implants, which are inserted beneath the breast tissue or chest muscles. The goal of breast augmentation is to improve the symmetry, contour, or overall appearance of the breasts, often for cosmetic reasons or to restore volume lost due to pregnancy, weight loss, or aging. It can also be used in reconstructive surgery to rebuild the breast after mastectomy or injury.
Breast Augmentation Shapes and Sizes
Breast augmentation offers a range of options in both the shape and size of implants to help you achieve your desired look. Here's an overview of the key choices:
Breast Augmentation Shapes
- Round Implants: These are the most commonly used shape and provide a fuller, more lifted appearance, especially in the upper portion of the breast. Round implants are symmetrical, so the breast maintains the same shape regardless of positioning. They can provide more noticeable cleavage and a more enhanced look.
- Teardrop (Anatomical) Implants: Shaped to mimic the natural contours of the breast, teardrop implants have more volume at the bottom and taper toward the top. This provides a more subtle, natural appearance, often preferred by those seeking a less augmented look.
Breast Augmentation Sizes
Implant sizes are measured in cubic centimeters (cc), with sizes typically ranging from 150cc to 800cc or more. The size chosen depends on your anatomy, personal goals, and the recommendation of your surgeon during your consultation. Factors like your chest width, breast tissue, and skin elasticity will be considered to determine the best size for your body.
When choosing both shape and size, it's essential to balance your aesthetic desires with what's appropriate for your anatomy to achieve a beautiful, natural-looking result. Your surgeon will guide you through the options to help you select the implant shape and size that best fits your body and goals.
Placement Techniques: Underneath vs. Above the Muscle
When it comes to breast augmentation, there are two primary placement techniques for the implants: underneath the muscle (submuscular) or above the muscle (subglandular). Each option offers distinct advantages, and the best choice depends on your anatomy, lifestyle, and desired outcome.
Underneath the Muscle (Submuscular Placement)
In this technique, the implant is placed partially or fully beneath the pectoral muscle. This placement tends to offer a more natural look, especially for those with less natural breast tissue. It may also reduce the risk of visible rippling or wrinkling of the implant and could lower the risk of capsular contracture (a complication where scar tissue forms tightly around the implant). However, recovery may take slightly longer since the muscle needs time to heal.
Above the Muscle (Subglandular Placement)
Here, the implant is placed directly behind the breast tissue but above the chest muscle. This technique generally involves a quicker recovery period and may be a good option for patients with more natural breast tissue to cover the implant. It can also create a more lifted appearance for some patients. However, the results may appear less natural in patients with minimal breast tissue, and there could be a higher chance of visible implant edges or rippling.
During your consultation, we will evaluate your anatomy and aesthetic goals to recommend the placement that will deliver the best possible outcome for you.
Types of Breast Implants
Breast augmentation involves selecting both the shape and size of implants to achieve your desired look. Implants come in two main shapes: round and teardrop (anatomical). Round implants are often used to provide a fuller upper breast, while teardrop implants mimic the natural slope of the breast with more volume at the bottom. Both shapes come in various sizes to fit your unique body and goals, and the size is measured in cubic centimeters (cc) to reflect volume rather than cup size.
At our practice, we do not use textured implants due to their connection with a rare type of cancer called Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). Instead, we prioritize safety and offer smooth implants, which have not been linked to these health risks.
Silicone Implants
Silicone breast implants are a popular option for women seeking breast augmentation. These implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel that closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue, making them a top choice for patients who want a softer, more natural-looking result.
It’s important to note that silicone implants, like all breast implants, are not lifetime devices. Regular follow-up visits and monitoring are recommended, and most surgeons advise periodic imaging, such as an MRI or ultrasound, to ensure the implants remain intact.
Saline Implants
Saline breast implants are another popular option for breast augmentation. These implants are filled with a sterile saltwater solution (saline) and are known for their safety and flexibility in size.
Overall, saline implants are a safe, effective option for breast augmentation, particularly for those who prefer the peace of mind that comes with immediate detection of rupture and natural absorption of the saline solution.
Gummy Bear Breast Implants
Gummy Bear breast implants, also known as cohesive gel implants, are a type of silicone implant that offers a firmer, more stable form compared to traditional silicone implants. They are called "Gummy Bear" implants because the silicone gel inside is thicker and more cohesive, similar to the consistency of a gummy bear candy. Even if the implant shell is broken, the gel inside holds its shape, which provides several advantages.
Gummy Bear implants offer a great combination of natural shape and durability, making them an excellent option for patients looking for long-lasting, natural-looking breast augmentation.
Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation
Fat transfer breast augmentation is a natural alternative to traditional breast implants that uses your body fat to enhance the size and shape of your breasts. This procedure, also known as autologous fat grafting, involves removing fat from other areas of your body, such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks, through liposuction and then purifying and injecting the fat into the breasts.
Fat transfer breast augmentation is an excellent option for those looking for a natural way to enhance their breasts while sculpting other body areas. It is ideal for women who want a subtle, natural boost in size and shape without using implants.
Silicone vs. Saline Implants
When choosing between silicone and saline breast implants, it’s important to understand the critical differences in terms of appearance, feel, and safety. Both options can provide excellent results but offer distinct advantages depending on your body type and aesthetic goals. Here’s a comparison:
Silicone Implants:
- Feel and Appearance: Silicone implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel that closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. They are known for providing a soft, natural look and feel, making them a popular choice, especially for women with less natural breast tissue.
- Shape Options: Silicone implants come in round and teardrop (anatomical) shapes, allowing for various aesthetic outcomes. Teardrop-shaped implants can offer a more natural slope to the breast, while round implants provide a fuller, more lifted appearance.
- Implant Integrity: Silicone implants are pre-filled before being inserted, and even if they rupture, the cohesive gel generally stays in place, meaning the breast’s shape won’t immediately change. Regular MRI or ultrasound scans are recommended to detect silent ruptures since the rupture may not be noticeable.
- Incision Size: Silicone implants require a slightly larger incision than saline implants because they come pre-filled, whereas saline implants are filled after insertion.
- Cost: Silicone implants tend to be more expensive than saline implants due to their material and their aesthetic advantages.
- Preferred by Many Patients: Because silicone implants offer a more natural feel and reduced risk of visible rippling or wrinkling, they are often the preferred choice for many women.
Saline Implants:
- Feel and Appearance: Saline implants are filled with a sterile saltwater solution, which gives them a less natural feel compared to silicone. They can still provide good results but may not feel as natural as silicone implants, especially in patients with less natural breast tissue.
- Adjustable Size: Saline implants are inserted empty and then filled with saline once placed inside the breast. This allows for a slightly smaller incision and the ability to fine-tune the implant size during surgery.
- Immediate Rupture Detection: If a saline implant ruptures, it will deflate immediately, and the body safely absorbs the saline solution. This makes it easy to detect a rupture without the need for imaging.
- Incision Size: Since saline implants are filled after being inserted, they typically require a smaller incision, which can lead to a less noticeable scar.
- Cost: Saline implants are generally less expensive than silicone implants, making them a more affordable option for some patients.
- Rippling: Saline implants are more prone to visible rippling or wrinkling, particularly in patients with thinner skin or less breast tissue. This can be more noticeable with subglandular placement (above the muscle).
