Breast Augmentation

Types of Breast Augmentation

There are several different ways an implant can be inserted to achieve a fuller look. The first is called submuscular placement. Submuscular placement means that the implant is placed partially or completely beneath the pectorialis muscle, which is against the chest wall.

The second method of implant insertion is called subglandular placement. Subglandular placement means that the implant is placed under the breast tissue, and above the pectoralis muscle.

Depending on the look and feel that’s desired, your plastic surgeon at Laurel Cosmetics will determine what the best implant placement is for you.

What kind of Breast Implants are there?

Those seeking breast augmentation have two implant options.

Though controversial, silicone breast implants were re-approved by the FDA in 2006 for use during breast augmentation surgery. Silicone implants are made of a silicone rubber shell, and are then filled with silicone gel.

The other option available for insertion is saline implants. Like silicone, saline breast implants are made of a silicone rubber shell, but contain sterile saltwater, also known as a saline solution.

The kind of implant you will choose depends on what kind of look you are trying to achieve. Implants come in a variety of shapes, textures, and profiles, making a conversation with your Laurel Cosmetics surgeon crucial.

The Breast Augmentation Procedure

Once you and your surgeon have determined the best surgical method and implant type for you, you are all set for surgery! The surgery lasts about one to two hours.

Before the procedure the treatment area will be cleaned and sterilized and you will be sedated. Each surgeon is different, but a combination of local anesthetic and intravenous sedation or general anesthesia will usually be used. After administering anesthesia, your surgeon will make incisions in inconspicuous areas. This is to minimize the visibility of scarring. There are three different kinds of incision options including periareolar, inframammary or transaxillary incisions. The kind of incision that you decide on will be discussed with your doctor before surgery, as each incision has a different outcome.

After incisions are made, the breast implants are placed into either a submuscular pocket or a subglandular pocket. The way that the implants are inserted depends completely on what kind of implant you’ve chosen, the size, and your body type, as well as anything that your surgeon has recommended. After the implants have been properly placed, the incisions must be closed. Incisions are closed with sutures that are layered in the breast tissue, and either skin adhesive, sutures or surgical tape to seal the skin.

Breast Augmentation Recovery

After the procedure has been finished, you may be required to stay at the hospital for a few hours. Once you’re permitted to leave, full recovery can take several weeks.

It is common to need to wear a support bra or compression garment while in recovery. The compression garment helps reduce swelling, as well as holds the breast implants in place as they heal. Most patients can return to work within three to seven days after the procedure. However, strenuous physical activity is not allowed for about three to four weeks, and must be approved by your plastic surgeon. Pain and swelling are to be expected, even with a compression garment. Once swelling has completely subsided, you will be able to see the full results of your breast augmentation procedure.

If you have been considering breast augmentation and would like to get started, be sure to contact Laurel Cosmetics as soon as possible!