Breast Augmentation - Body Treatments
Description
Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that increases the size, changes the shape, or alters the texture of the breasts. This is done by placing implants under breast tissue or chest muscles. There are two primary types of implants:
- Silicone-filled implants: These consist of a silicone outer shell filled with a silicone gel. Many women feel these implants mimic real breast tissue the best, but there’s a risk of silent rupture (the implant breaks, but the patient and doctor may not immediately notice).
- Saline-filled implants: These consist of a silicone outer shell filled with a sterile saltwater (saline) solution. If a saline implant ruptures, it will deflate and the saline will be absorbed and naturally expelled by the body.
In recent years, an additional technique called “fat transfer breast augmentation” has gained popularity. This involves using liposuction to remove fat from other parts of the patient’s body and injecting it into the breasts.
Breast augmentation is performed to increase confidence in one’s appearance, to balance breasts that may be naturally different in size or shape, or to restore breasts after surgery for conditions like cancer or trauma, or due to pregnancy or weight loss.
As with any surgery, breast augmentation comes with risks, including capsular contracture (scar tissue that forms around the implant and squeezes it), changes in nipple or breast sensation, implant leakage or rupture, and other complications. It’s important to have thorough discussions with a certified plastic surgeon before deciding on the procedure.