As one of the most requested cosmetic procedures in the United States, breast augmentation refers to the use of implants and fat grafting to augment the breasts—increasing both size and symmetry, if needed.
Many women pursue breast surgery for a variety of reasons, including unhappiness with their breast size, shape, symmetry and/or their breast to body proportion. Each and every woman is unique, and has individual aesthetic goals for her body. Because of this, Dr. Rednam takes the time to meet with each patient, talk about their goals, and customize an approach that will provide them with the results they are looking for.
The best candidates for breast augmentation include those in good health with realistic expectations for their procedure. It should be noted that for patients with considerable breast drooping or sagging, an augmentation alone is not enough to see optimal results. However, in combination with a mastopexy, also known as a breast lift, these patients can see noticeable improvement in shape, size, symmetry and lift.
Breast Augmentation Procedure
There are numerous implant options available for qualified patients, which is why it is important for patients to consult with Dr. Rednam about which option is best suited for them. Implants vary in both size and material, and provide differing results. Additionally, the type of implant chosen determines scar placement. During an initial consultation with Dr. Rednam, patients are able to discuss the following options for augmentation.
Implant Material
Round saline: These implants are inflated once placed into the chest. They are made of a thin outer silicone shell and filled with saline. Saline implants are more prone to rippling and may feel less natural in some patients. This is the only implant available for women ages 22 years old and younger.
Round silicone: Silicone implants come pre-filled and are composed of a silicone shell and silicone filling. They tend to have a more natural appearance than saline implants.
Shaped silicone: Like round silicone implants, these come pre-filled and are made of silicone. However, these implants are shaped like a tear drop, and are filled with denser silicone that is form-stable. These implants can help patients achieve a more natural looking breast augmentation.
Implant Placement
Submuscular: Dr. Rednam places the implant partially below the pectoral muscle. For women with naturally small breasts, this technique can provide a more aesthetic result. It also reduces risk of capsular contracture and makes any ripple appear less noticeable.
Subglandular: Dr. Rednam puts the implants directly below the breast gland. This method is effective for those who have already had children and can also provide patients with less post-operative discomfort. But it should be noted that with this technique, any rippling is more noticeable, and has a higher risk of capsular contractures and sagging over time.
Incision Placement
Inframammary: This is the most widely used incision. Dr. Rednam hides the scar under the breast in the breast crease (where the breast meets the chest wall). This allows her to best see the implant placement.
Periareolar: Dr. Rednam makes an incision around the outside of the areola, to access the underlying tissue in order to create a pocket for the implant. This is a great option for some patients who qualify.
Transaxillary: Dr. Rednam places the implant within an incision in the axilla. This technique is best used with saline implants, but in some cases, can be effective for silicone implants as well.
Breast Augmentation Recovery
Results from this procedure are visible both immediately and progressively. Patients see fuller volume right away, but optimal results (due to implant settling, reduced swelling and scarring) can typically be seen a few months following the surgery.
During recovery, patients should wear a support bra and refrain from physical activity until otherwise instructed by Dr. Rednam. During your procedure consultation, she will give you instructions on how to best care for your new body after the surgery is complete.
