Cosmetic breast enhancement is once again the #1 cosmetic surgery in the U.S., according to the latest statistics gathered by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). With over 300,000 surgeries performed in the U.S. in 2017 alone, breast augmentation continues to be one of the most popular procedures requested by patients in beautiful Southern California. The sunny weather and warm breezes lend themselves to people wanting to look and feel their best. With the well-documented safety record of the newer generation of breast implants and the high satisfaction rating among patients, more and more women are looking to breast augmentation to give themselves a nice aesthetic enhancement and to boost their self-confidence.
How is Breast Augmentation Performed?
Breast augmentation has traditionally been performed by placing a prosthetic implant underneath the breast to provide increased projection and improved contour. The implants come in variable sizes to reflect the different desires of their recipients. The implant shells are all made of silicone, but they may be filled with either saline solution or silicone gel. Silicone gel implants are not only as safe and effective as saline implants, but they also have the added benefits of less rippling and a much more natural feel to the breast. Due largely to these differences, the popularity of silicone implants exceeds that of the saline implants 9 to 1 here in Newport Beach, CA.
The implants are typically placed under general anesthesia at an outpatient surgery center and can be placed either over or under the pectoralis major muscle. The latter method is usually recommended due to the benefits of a more natural appearance, less rippling, and a significantly decreased risk of capsular contracture, i.e. scar tissue formation around the implant. Several incisions can be used for access including the infra mammary fold, around the areola, and axillary approaches. Breast augmentation can often be combined with a breast lift or other cosmetic surgeries as indicated. It is essential to note that breast implants, like all prosthetic devices, do not last forever and typically will need to be replaced every 10-15 years. Interestingly, I have seen patients who have kept their same implants in for over 20 years without problems, but this is not recommended.
Visit a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Patients who have undergone breast augmentation seem to be among the happiest of all cosmetic patients. It is important to have a full consultation and candid discussion of your goals and expectations with a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon. There are many self-reported cosmetic surgeons these days with little or no training, and unfortunately, there are no governmental regulations limiting their practice. I encourage you to explore and evaluate the credentials and training background for every physician you encounter. Your choice of a well-educated plastic surgeon, as well as thoroughly communicating your interests and desires, are critical in achieving your aesthetic goals.
If you have any further questions or would like a complimentary consultation, please contact us to schedule your appointment today!
