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An Introductory Guide To Breast Augmentation & Implants

July 11, 2017
Implants

A woman’s breasts can play a significant role in her sense of self-esteem and self-confidence. As with any other body part, if you are unhappy with your chest, it can become an issue that affects how you carry yourself, how confident you are and even what you wear every day.

Many patients have come to me for breast augmentation and when the procedure is done well, the positive effects on their self-esteem can be significant. I would also say it is one of the produces that brings very high levels of patient satisfaction. It is not merely the surgery itself though; it is the careful planning beforehand that leads to the best results.

Naturally beautiful

The days of excessive, unnatural looking results are gone - or at least they should be - and today there is a focus on a more natural look and feel to the breasts that aims for aesthetic symmetry and harmony with the rest of the body. Results are now customised to work well with a patient’s own shape and physique to give an enhanced, yet natural look. For me, this is one of the most important aspects of this sort of surgery and I spend a lot of time in my consultations talking to my patients about their aspirations, my own thoughts and also what is realistically achievable.

I place a large emphasis on providing comprehensive education about breast augmentation as I want to ensure that the patient is as well informed as possible so that they can make a fully- informed decision about the procedure. This is the most important reason why I always encourage a patient to come back for a second consultation, as having all of the facts and knowing what to consider is important in choosing the right option.

There have been great developments in the implants themselves in recent years - they are much more natural looking and go through extensive testing to ensure they are safe. In my clinic we only use FDA-approved implants, giving patients the security that they are receiving the very best, and results can be expected to last ten to 15 years. (It is worth mentioning that, as with all surgeries, there can be an element of risk involved, but any good surgeon will make sure a patient understands the risks and possible side effects in advance of the procedure.)

What does the surgery involve?

As for the surgery itself, there are a number of ways the procedure can be performed. The most advanced technique is the ‘Dual Plane’ technique of breast augmentation, which involves dissection beneath the muscle and also some dissection above the muscle, depending on the breast configuration and overlying loose breast tissue.

Consequently, the implant is mostly placed under the muscle, with some breast tissue on the bottom. The mobilisation of some of the loose breast tissue from the underlying muscle allows the creation of a more natural appearance for the augmented breast. Otherwise, the muscle will hold the breast and nipple down and create unnatural look.

The incision – and, as a result, the scar – is quite small too, and can be made under the breast, around the nipple or under the arm. The procedure is usually done under general anesthetic and takes about an hour and a half to two hours. A patient can usually go home the same day and can resume normal activities a few weeks later, though this is dependent on the patient’s recovery.

Implants 2

What are breast implants made of?

This is one of the most common questions I am asked about breast augmentation. Breast implants have an outer shell of silicone, which can be either smooth or textured in feel and appearance. When it comes to what they’re filled with, there are a few options; most commonly saline (or salt water), silicone gel or a mixture of both.

There are also various shapes of implant available. A round implant is the most popular choice among my patients and, unsurprisingly, gives a more round-looking breast. The teardrop shape, meanwhile, gives a more anatomically accurate-looking result after surgery.

The Pre-Surgery Plan

Ultimately, a full, detailed consultation will help both patient and surgeon decide on the best shape and size of implant that will work well with the client’s body and proportions, as well as the considerations the patient needs to factor into their decision. This is coupled with the use of innovative new technology that helps a patient understand exactly what the procedure entails and the results they can expect.

In my clinic, I use the Crisalix 3D simulation app and VR goggles to clearly outline how even the smallest of anatomical changes will look, not just on the breast itself, but as it would fit with the overall physique of the patient. The patient can view the results of the proposed augmentation before the operation is decided upon, ensuring both patient and surgeon have the same expectations.

I would always recommend asking questions, being well informed and being open with your wishes and concerns. Of course, it is constructive to take a surgeon’s advice on board but it is most important to properly consider all aspects yourself too, before deciding to embark on a breast augmentation procedure.

If you are considering breast augmentation or any other cosmetic surgery procedure, we can advise on the best options for you. Contact us to arrange a consultation.

Find out all you need to know about cosmetic procedures and the factors you need to consider in our free guide: Considerations Before Deciding on Cosmetic Surgery and Post-Treatment Care:

Download Mr. Chan's Guide to Cosmetic Surgery Considerations

Implants

A woman’s breasts can play a significant role in her sense of self-esteem and self-confidence. As with any other body part, if you are unhappy with your chest, it can become an issue that affects how you carry yourself, how confident you are and even what you wear every day.

Many patients have come to me for breast augmentation and when the procedure is done well, the positive effects on their self-esteem can be significant. I would also say it is one of the produces that brings very high levels of patient satisfaction. It is not merely the surgery itself though; it is the careful planning beforehand that leads to the best results.

Naturally beautiful

The days of excessive, unnatural looking results are gone - or at least they should be - and today there is a focus on a more natural look and feel to the breasts that aims for aesthetic symmetry and harmony with the rest of the body. Results are now customised to work well with a patient’s own shape and physique to give an enhanced, yet natural look. For me, this is one of the most important aspects of this sort of surgery and I spend a lot of time in my consultations talking to my patients about their aspirations, my own thoughts and also what is realistically achievable.

I place a large emphasis on providing comprehensive education about breast augmentation as I want to ensure that the patient is as well informed as possible so that they can make a fully- informed decision about the procedure. This is the most important reason why I always encourage a patient to come back for a second consultation, as having all of the facts and knowing what to consider is important in choosing the right option.

There have been great developments in the implants themselves in recent years - they are much more natural looking and go through extensive testing to ensure they are safe. In my clinic we only use FDA-approved implants, giving patients the security that they are receiving the very best, and results can be expected to last ten to 15 years. (It is worth mentioning that, as with all surgeries, there can be an element of risk involved, but any good surgeon will make sure a patient understands the risks and possible side effects in advance of the procedure.)

What does the surgery involve?

As for the surgery itself, there are a number of ways the procedure can be performed. The most advanced technique is the ‘Dual Plane’ technique of breast augmentation, which involves dissection beneath the muscle and also some dissection above the muscle, depending on the breast configuration and overlying loose breast tissue.

Consequently, the implant is mostly placed under the muscle, with some breast tissue on the bottom. The mobilisation of some of the loose breast tissue from the underlying muscle allows the creation of a more natural appearance for the augmented breast. Otherwise, the muscle will hold the breast and nipple down and create unnatural look.

The incision – and, as a result, the scar – is quite small too, and can be made under the breast, around the nipple or under the arm. The procedure is usually done under general anesthetic and takes about an hour and a half to two hours. A patient can usually go home the same day and can resume normal activities a few weeks later, though this is dependent on the patient’s recovery.

Implants 2

What are breast implants made of?

This is one of the most common questions I am asked about breast augmentation. Breast implants have an outer shell of silicone, which can be either smooth or textured in feel and appearance. When it comes to what they’re filled with, there are a few options; most commonly saline (or salt water), silicone gel or a mixture of both.

There are also various shapes of implant available. A round implant is the most popular choice among my patients and, unsurprisingly, gives a more round-looking breast. The teardrop shape, meanwhile, gives a more anatomically accurate-looking result after surgery.

The Pre-Surgery Plan

Ultimately, a full, detailed consultation will help both patient and surgeon decide on the best shape and size of implant that will work well with the client’s body and proportions, as well as the considerations the patient needs to factor into their decision. This is coupled with the use of innovative new technology that helps a patient understand exactly what the procedure entails and the results they can expect.

In my clinic, I use the Crisalix 3D simulation app and VR goggles to clearly outline how even the smallest of anatomical changes will look, not just on the breast itself, but as it would fit with the overall physique of the patient. The patient can view the results of the proposed augmentation before the operation is decided upon, ensuring both patient and surgeon have the same expectations.

I would always recommend asking questions, being well informed and being open with your wishes and concerns. Of course, it is constructive to take a surgeon’s advice on board but it is most important to properly consider all aspects yourself too, before deciding to embark on a breast augmentation procedure.

If you are considering breast augmentation or any other cosmetic surgery procedure, we can advise on the best options for you. Contact us to arrange a consultation.

Find out all you need to know about cosmetic procedures and the factors you need to consider in our free guide: Considerations Before Deciding on Cosmetic Surgery and Post-Treatment Care:

Download Mr. Chan's Guide to Cosmetic Surgery Considerations

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