When you invest a lot of time, energy and money into something, you want to get as much out of it as you can. That’s definitely the case with breast augmentation. In the leadup to the surgery, you’re likely to spend a certain amount of time talking to plastic surgeons, deciding on the size and type of implants you want, and preparing for the procedure and recovery. There’s also the cost of the surgery to consider, which is usually at least several thousand dollars. And then there’s the time it will take for the procedure itself and the recovery period.
With all this in mind, you’ll want to make sure you’re getting as close to your goals as you can from your breast augmentation. Here’s what you can do to help optimize your results.
Know What “Look” You Want
Although stereotypes about breast augmentation usually bring to mind a woman with unnaturally enlarged breasts or breasts that are nearly spherical, that style isn’t always the preferred look. In fact, many women these days are after a more natural look from breast surgery. They don’t want to look like mid-1990’s Pamela Andersen on “Baywatch.” Instead, they want a result that’s more subtle and natural.
One thing to consider when thinking about the look you’re after is the type of cleavage you want. Cleavage is the space between the breasts. Some women prefer to have more space between the breasts and less cleavage while others are looking for less space and more cleavage. The size of the implant, the size of the pocket made to hold the implant and the position of the implant can all affect the amount of cleavage you end up with. Bring some photos to your consultations if you can to help communicate your goals to prospective surgeons.
Understand the Difference Between Saline and Silicone Implants
Choosing the wrong implants can leave you dissatisfied with your results after the surgery. Silicone and saline implants aren’t just filled with different materials. They also produce different end results. One might be the best choice for one woman, but not for another.
For example, saline implants tend to have a firmer feel compared to silicone. Silicone implants often feel more natural or closer to real breast tissue after insertion, compared to saline implants.
Another difference between saline and silicone implants is how they are filled. Silicone implants are pre-filled, which means that they usually require a larger incision compared to saline implants. Saline implants can be filled up after they are placed in the breasts. That not only means the surgeon can make a smaller incision. It also means that there’s more flexibility when it comes to the final size of the implant.
Remember That Size Isn’t the Only Thing the That Matters
Although size might be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about breast augmentation and implants, it’s not the only thing to consider. The position of the implant, its materials, and its shape will also affect the end result of your surgery. Your surgeon can explain to you the differences between under the muscle and over the muscle placement of the implants as well as the differences when it comes to implant shape.
Bigger isn’t Always Better
Since the point of breast augmentation is to increase size, it can seem as if going as big as possible is the best option. But it’s possible to go too big and to end up with a result that doesn’t fit your frame or personality. Too-large of implants can stretch out the skin of the breasts, become visible under the breast tissue, and can look very unnatural.
Oversized implants can also be incredibly uncomfortable. They can put excess weight on your front, leading to back and shoulder pain. Plus, they can make it difficult to exercise or otherwise be physically active.
Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions
One last thing to do to make the most of your breast augmentation is to follow any instructions given by your surgeon to the letter. That includes instructions to avoid tobacco use, to skip a bra for a few weeks after surgery and to generally take it easy during your recovery. If you’re unsure on any instructions or want more details about why you should follow them, your surgeon will be happy to explain them to you.
In Houston, Texas, Dr. Paul Vitenas is a board-certified plastic surgeon with nearly 30 years of experience specializing in breast augmentation and other breast surgeries. To learn more about how to make the most of your breast augmentation, call 281-484-0088 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Vitenas today.
