Posted by Laurence Weider on May 22, 2019
Breast augmentation remains one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures in the United States. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, more than 250,000 procedures were performed in 2016. With advancements in technology and implant options, patients today have a wide variety of choices, including different sizes, profiles, gel types, and even new structured saline implants. These options allow surgeons to customize procedures to align with the specific goals and preferences of each patient.
Gummy Bear Implants: Advanced Silicone Technology
Gummy Bear implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel that retains its shape more effectively than traditional implants. This design reduces the risk of gel migration in the rare event of a rupture, as the gel remains intact even when cut.
At Weider Plastic Surgery, we offer a complete range of implants with three levels of gel cohesiveness, ranging from the least to the most “gummy bear-like. During consultations, we will review the pros and cons of each option and recommend the most suitable implant for achieving the patient’s desired results.
Faster Recovery with Modern Techniques
With precise technique, our breast augmentation patients typically experience a fast recovery. Many describe post-surgical discomfort as comparable to muscle soreness following an intense workout, combined with some swelling. While we provide prescription painkillers, most patients typically only need them for a few days. We usually place the implants under the pectoralis muscle to create a more natural look and deliver longer-lasting results.
Breast Lift Procedures: Addressing Volume Loss and Sagging
For women experiencing sagging breasts, often due to age, significant weight loss, or multiple pregnancies, combining a breast lift with augmentation may provide the best results. Women with minimal sagging and good skin elasticity may achieve satisfactory outcomes with implants alone. However, those with more pronounced sagging or low-hanging nipples may benefit from a breast lift (mastopexy) with implants. During your consultation, we will help you make this decision and review the pros and cons of each.
Combining Procedures
In many cases, breast augmentation and lifts can be performed simultaneously, minimizing recovery time and overall costs. However, for patients with significant sagging or certain medical conditions, surgeons may recommend staging the procedures. A breast lift is typically performed first, followed by augmentation a few months later. This approach can reduce the risk of wound-healing complications and provide more flexibility in choosing implant sizes. During your consultation with us, we will discuss this option with you and help you determine if it is right for you.
Types of Incisions
The incision method depends on the degree of sagging and nipple position. Options include:
- Periareolar Incision: Around the areola. This is also called a doughnut lift
- Vertical Lift: Around the nipple and vertically down to the breast crease. This is sometimes called a lollipop lift
- Full or Inverted “T” Lift: A combination of periareolar, vertical, and transverse incisions along the breast crease.
Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation: A Natural Alternative
Fat transfer breast augmentation involves removing fat from areas such as the abdomen, flanks, or thighs and injecting it into the breasts. This technique is ideal for women seeking a subtle increase in breast size and desiring body contouring benefits from liposuction. Fat transfer eliminates the need for implants and their associated costs and maintenance. However, the procedure has limitations: 30-50% of the transferred fat may not integrate into the breast tissue, making results less predictable.
Choosing the Right Option
Determining the most suitable breast augmentation procedure requires a detailed consultation with a qualified surgeon. Factors such as individual anatomy, aesthetic goals, and medical history play a crucial role in identifying the best approach. A thorough discussion and examination ensure that patients receive tailored recommendations for achieving their desired outcomes.
For those considering breast augmentation, please call our office or fill out an online form If you wish to set up a consultation. We at Weider Plastic Surgery look forward to assisting you with this life changing process.
Dr. Weider, a native of Southern California, is a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon who has maintained a private practice in Dallas, TX since 1999. After attending Stanford University, he obtained his medical degree (M.D.) from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. He then completed a one year surgical internship in Los Angeles at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, followed by a four year general surgery residency in Dallas at Methodist Medical Center, and a two year plastic surgery fellowship in Cleveland at Case Western Reserve University.
