Women decide to get breast augmentation for many reasons. Perhaps they have smaller natural breast tissue or lost firmness after having children. If you feel self-conscious about your breasts, now is the time to make a change. Breast augmentation is one of the most commonly performed plastic surgeries performed in the world. During this procedure, an implant is placed to add volume and improve breast shape.
Sagging breasts can sometimes cause big problems for women, leading to issues with self-confidence. Some of the most common questions we receive at Austin Plastic Surgery Institute include, “can implants lift your breasts?†and “how are breast implants done?†During a consultation, our skilled board-certified plastic surgeons can address these concerns and more. Learn more about breast implants by reaching out to our clinic in Austin, TX.
What are breast implants made of?
Before you undergo breast augmentation surgery, it is important to learn about the different breast implant types and sizes. Have you ever wondered what are breast implants made of? Silicone breast implants are pre-filled with a silicone gel that feels similar to natural breast tissue. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved silicone implants for use in breast augmentation and they are truly one of the most studied medical devices ever made. They have the consistency of a gummy bear and so there is not a risk of leakage or concerns of safety if the shell ruptures or becomes compromised.
Breast implants come in nearly every size imaginable, but they aren’t measured in traditional cup sizes. Instead, implants are referred to in cubic centimeters (ccs). To determine the right implant size, your physician at Austin Plastic Surgery Institute will review your body type and current breast size before making suggestions. It is important that the implant chosen “fits” on the chest wall. The base diameter of the breast is measured to determine that. We encourage patients to bring in photographs of their desired look so we can gain a better understanding of their cosmetic goals. Keep in mind that large or heavy implants may cause issues with back and neck pain in the future. Implants that are too large for ones frame also lead to a higher rate of asymmetry and malposition which increases their need for revision surgery.
Can implants lift your breasts?
Although breast augmentation can help with fullness and size, it can’t correct certain issues, such as sagging or drooping. If sagging is what concerns you most, you may want to consider a breast lift (with or without an implant). In this procedure, the excess skin is removed while the remaining tissue and nipples are raised to a higher position on the chest. A breast lift can also reduce the overall size of the areola. During your consultation, the surgeons at Austin Plastic Surgery Institute can determine whether breast augmentation with or without a lift surgery will be the choice for you. Our Vectra 3D imaging allows us to provide a simulation of what your breast would look like with different size implants. It can also show what the breast would look like with the lift.
So, can breast implants lift your breasts? The short answer is NO. Admittedly there are some patients who are borderline and there are techniques which allow the breast gland to be released a little which can help avoid a formal mastopexy (lift). However, patients can opt to get a combination surgery to achieve their most optimal results in Austin, TX. While many women feel they have to make a choice between breast implants and lift surgery, we often recommend both to correct drooping and increase volume at the same time. The advantage of doing both is that there is only one surgery and recovery period required.
How are breast implants done?
After choosing to get breast augmentation and lift surgery, many people want to know how breast implants are done. The surgery is performed in an accredited surgical facility while you are under general anesthesia. For implants alone, incisions are placed in natural creases, so any scars are easily hidden with underwear or a bathing suit. Austin Plastic Surgery Institute can usually perform the procedure in about an hour before releasing the patient home with a responsible family member. It may take several days of rest before getting back to your normal routines. For this reason, patients are encouraged to rest and not push themselves too hard. It takes about two months for the breasts to fall into their new, natural positions on the chest. When a lift is done, the final scar pattern looks like a lollipop and fades very well. Sensation to the nipple returns over 4-6 weeks in most cases.
Learn more about breast implant types and sizes
Want to learn more about breast implant types and sizes? Whether your natural tissue is too small, or you have drooping breasts as a result of pregnancy, the professionals at Austin Plastic Surgery Institute offer a range of options to help. Our staff uses proven, state-of-the-art techniques in breast augmentation and lift surgery to get your desired results. During your appointment in Austin, TX, we can review your desired breast shape and create a custom surgical plan that works for you. Learn more by contacting one of our board-certified plastic surgeons today.
