Breast augmentation can enhance body contour, balance breast size irregularities, and reconstruct tissue following surgery. The results can be very satisfying through safe, effective procedures that alter the appearance of a woman’s body.
Breast Augmentation Options
Women who undergo breast augmentation have a number of decisions to make before undergoing the procedure. Dallas breast augmentation surgeon Paul Pin strives to help our patients make the decision that will best help them achieve their cosmetic goals.
Saline vs. Silicone Breast Implants
To increase breast size, implants containing either saline or silicone are used. Silicone implants became available again in 2006 after an extensive evaluation by the FDA documented their safety.
Implant Size
When most women think about the breast implant size they desire, they tend to think about bra sizes. However, implant volumes do not directly relate to bra sizes; a 300 cc implant may result in a C cup size in a small-framed woman but a B cup size in a large-framed woman.
Incisional Approach
There are three types of incisional approaches Dr. Pin uses to perform breast augmentation: inframammary (in the crease of the breast), periareolar (around the nipple), and axillary (through the armpit). Dr. Pin can explain the benefits and drawbacks associated with each of these techniques.
Implant Placement
In the past, breast implants were only placed above the chest muscle. Due to advancements in the breast augmentation procedure, breast implants can now be placed above or below the chest muscle. Placement typically depends on our Dallas breast augmentation patients’ body types and aesthetic desires. Dr. Pin can recommend the approach that will help each patient achieve their cosmetic goals.
Implant Shape
Breast implants are available in round and teardrop shapes. The teardrop implant results in a gentle slope to the upper part of the breasts, while the round implant results in more upper breast fullness.
Implant Texture
Women can choose smooth or textured breast implants. However, Dr. Pin generally recommends use of smooth implants to avoid post-operative rippling and additional surgery.
For more detailed information, read Breast Enlargement: Sorting through the Options.
The Breast Augmentation Procedure
Breast augmentation is performed either in an office facility, an outpatient surgical center, or hospital, usually under general anesthesia. The incision necessary for inserting the implant can be made in the crease where the breast meets the chest, around the areola (the dark skin surrounding the nipple), or in the arm pit. Scars are usually inconspicuous. The breast implant may be inserted directly under breast tissue or beneath the chest wall muscle.
Some patients choose to undergo the breast augmentation procedure in conjunction with breast lift, liposuction, or tummy tuck.
Recovery after Placement of Breast Implants
The breast augmentation procedure usually takes less than one hour and pain is easily controlled with medications during the first few days. Most patients naturally restrict their activity for the first 48 hours to reduce their discomfort. Sutures are dissolvable and therefore do not need to be removed. Since there are no bandages, patients can shower the day after surgery.
Dallas Breast Augmentation Consultations
If you are seriously considering undergoing breast augmentation, schedule a consultation at the Dallas office of breast augmentation surgeon Paul Pin. Dr. Pin can help you decide if saline or silicone breast implants are right for you, and discuss the costs associated with breast augmentation.
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Advances in Breast Augmentation Techniques by Dr. Paul Pin
Breast Enlargement: Sorting Through the Options by Dr. Paul Pin