Breast augmentation can enhance the way you view yourself and the way others see you. While some women seek a va-va-voom appearance, most women are looking for a well-defined silhouette that restores their confidence.
There are two types of breast implants: silicone gel and saline. Both are made of a Silastic or silicone rubber shell. A saline implant is filled with salt water, while a gel implant is filled with cohesive silicone gel. The word ‘cohesive’ refers to the fact that the gel is thick, and tends to remain in a single mass even when outside the shell. Saline implants come out of the box empty and are filled in the operating room. These implants tend to be ripply and wrinkly. They last 10 to 15 years and are significantly heavier than gel implants. Gel implants ripple less, last 15 to 20 years and seem to cause much less stretch and droop compared to the saline devices. Dr. Pugash will show you samples and recommend the best implant for you.
Dr. Pugash will review your options for the placement of the incision. These include the axilla or armpit, along the lower edge of the areola and in the crease under the breast.
Dr. Pugash will review the advantages of placing the implants under the chest muscle.
What about Mammograms?
Your surgeon may recommend a mammogram before surgery. Depending on your age and personal and family history of breast disease, you may have a mammogram after surgery to establish your new baseline.
Your Choice: Silicone or Saline Implants?
Silicone implants are softer and more natural looking, and more effectively mimic the feel of the natural breast. Government regulation limits the use of silicone gel implants to women who are at least 22 years old.
What is the Best Size for You?
There are several considerations when choosing the size of an implant. You may wish to go for a more obvious look or a natural looking enhancement. You and your surgeon will determine which size implant will suit your build best. Saline and silicone implants are available in similar sizes.
Should you Select Submuscular or Subglandular Implants?
A submuscular implant is placed under the pectoralis muscle (chest muscle). This pushes the muscle and breast forward and makes the breast tissue more easily visible during a mammogram. Moreover, the implant is better hidden when placed under the muscle, with a smooth transition from the chest onto the breast and elimination of a visible ‘shelf.’ Finally, there is less tendency for submuscular implants to develop capsular contracture, or a buildup of scar tissue around the implant.
What Type of Incision will be made?
There are three types of incisions that may be available to you. Your consultation will include a discussion of which surgical approach is right for you.
The armpit incision: The implant is inserted through an incision in the arm pit. The surgeon uses an endoscope or a camera to see into the surgical site.
An incision in the areola: An incision is made along the lower edge of the areola.
Inframammary: A small incision is made in the crease below the breast.
What about Pregnancy Following Augmentation?
Pregnancy will not interfere with breast implants or breast feeding. Your breasts will change in ways that cannot be predicted, but there are no safety concerns either for the mother or baby.
For more information schedule your breast augmentation consultation with Dr. Pugash today. Dr. Pugash is a member of the Canadian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the Canadian Society of Plastic Surgeons, and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. He is certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.