Types of Breast Augmentation Procedures

Breast augmentations provide patients with many benefits, from improved self-confidence to a more youthful appearance. Because of these advantages, breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures globally. However, many people may be unaware that there are multiple forms of breast augmentation surgeries.

Different Kinds of Augmentation

Depending upon the patient’s lifestyle, body type, their desired results, and other factors, the surgeon will usually choose to place the implant either above or below the pectoral muscle. So, be sure to take these issues up with your surgeon.

Submuscular Augmentation

Submuscular Augmentation is the most invasive of the augmentation procedures because it requires not only an incision, but a partial separation of the pectoral muscle in order to create a place for the implant.

Submuscular augmentations produce natural-looking results and are ideal for those who do not engage in activities that put strain on their upper body. Additionally, because the implant is under the muscle it keeps the implants safe, it helps them maintain their shape and size, and it prevents the implants from getting in the way of your mammograms. However, the one down side of this form of breast augmentation is that it may require a longer recovery period than all other forms of breast augmentation, usually ranging from 7 days to 2 weeks.

Subglandular Augmentation

Subglandular Augmentation  places the implant right behind the breast tissue and in front of the pectoral muscle. Because this procedure is not as invasive as submuscular augmentation, the recovery time is dramatically decreased with only two to three days needed for recovery. It is also the best option for those who are looking for a significant increase in breast size as there is more room above the muscle for larger implants.

As well, women that engage in a lot of upper body activities such an as weightlifting may prefer this augmentation method as that it does not interfere with muscles. Because the implant is placed behind the breast tissue, that can make mammograms more difficult to perform. While instances of implant damage rarely occur with any type of breast augmentation, they are more likely to occur with a subglandular augmentation than a submuscular augmentation.

Fat Transfer Augmentation

Fat transfer augmentation is simply taking liposuction fat from another part of the body, usually the midsection or back and transferring the fat to the breasts. This procedure is ideal for patients that are only looking for a subtle increase in the size of their breasts and desire a more natural look and feel.

If a patient was already considering getting a liposuction, this is often the best way to incorporate both procedures naturally and simultaneously. However, just like other fat transfer procedures, the fat will be reabsorbed by the body over time so this procedure is not ideal for those looking for a permanent solution. Also, mammography could be adversely affected by this procedure.

Other Things to Consider

In addition to the type of augmentation patients also have to decide what type of implant they would prefer. There are many different kinds of implants each offering their own unique benefits. However, the three most popular are saline, silicone and the new form of stable material referred to as gummy bear. Be sure to discuss the different implant options with your surgeon along with which augmentation surgery is best for you.

Additionally, there are multiple types of breast augmentation incisions that can impact your recovery time as well as your end results. It is important to discuss these different kinds of incisions with your doctor and how each would affect your overall recovery.

For those who are interested in getting a fat transfer augmentation,  it is possible to harvest and freeze fat for additional touch-ups as your body absorbs the fat from your original procedure.

To set up an appointment and find out which type of breast augmentation is right for you, or if you have any questions or concerns, contact Eastlake Cosmetic Surgery today.