Thinking About Getting A Boob Job?

For women who are considering undergoing breast enhancement surgery, the single most important decision to make is selecting the right plastic surgeon. It is vital that you choose a surgeon with whom you are completely comfortable. Your satisfaction with the end result is largely dependent on how well you communicate with your surgeon.

Your surgeon will be guiding you through several important decisions that need to be made regarding your surgery. These include: the type of implant, the incision site, and the placement of the implant. Each of these decisions will impact how your breasts look and feel after the surgery. You will want a surgeon who provides full disclosure on each of these subjects and does not push you in any particular direction.

Type of Implant: silicone gel or saline filled

Both silicone gel and saline implants have been approved for use by the FDA and are considered safe for use in all patients. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Saline implants consist of silicone shells that are filled with a saltwater solution after they have been inserted by your surgeon. Because the shell is empty upon placement, generally a smaller incision is required. Additionally, your surgeon will have some leeway when determining how full to make the implants which can be especially beneficial if your natural breasts are uneven. If you are uncertain about what cup size you want to be there are saline implants that can be adjusted for up to six months post-surgery.

On the other hand, silicone gel implants are pre-filled and cannot be resized, but they come in a wide variety of sizes (measured in cubic centimeters, or CCs). Silicone implants are popular because the texture of the silicone gel closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. Also, despite prior controversy, modern silicone gel implants are considered safe.

Your surgeon should discuss with you the pros and cons of both silicone gel and saline implants. Inquire about the particular brand of implant your surgeon will be using and read all available information regarding that product. If your surgeon seems to be selling you on any particular implant, consider finding another doctor.

Incision Site

Another decision that needs to be discussed with your surgeon is the incision site. There are three common incisions options: periareolar, inframammary or transaxillary. The periareolar incision is placed around the nipple. It has the advantage of being the least conspicuous of the three in terms of scarring; however, it also has the highest likelihood of interfering with future breast feeding. The inframammary incision is a popular choice placed at the base of the breast where scarring can be concealed within the breast crease. The transaxillary incision is placed below the arm; in or around the armpit. This is a popular choice in Europe and is a good option for women who do not wish to have any scarring on their breasts.

Some surgeons are adept at using all three options, while others will prefer to use only one. If your surgeon does not regularly perform breast enhancement surgery using your preferred incision site, consider finding one who does. Also the tansumbilical (belly button) incision is a newer option that has not gained widespread acceptance among plastic surgeons. If your surgeon encourages you to use it be sure to do your research.

Placement

Breast implants can be placed either over or under your pectoral muscles. An implant placed under the muscle is said called submuscular. This placement has several advantages starting with a reduced likelihood of developing capsular contracture -- a painful condition in which abnormal scar tissue forms around the implant. This placement is also less likely to interfere with future mammograms. However, submuscular placement may restrict activities such as weight lifting that make heavy use of the pectoral muscles.

Implants placed between the pectoral muscle and the breast tissue are called subglandular. One of the advantages of a subglandular placement is a faster recovery time. Also, for women who have ptosis (or sagging of the breasts), the subglandular placement is less likely to cause a “double bubble” or “snoopy effect.”

Many surgeons prefer the submuscular placement because it seems to have fewer drawbacks. However, do not allow yourself to be talked into something you are not comfortable with. Research both options and choose the one that is right for you.

In conclusion, if you are thinking about getting a boob job, then consulting with a top notch plastic surgeon is crucial. Because every woman is unique a good surgeon will offer advice without trying to sell any particular alternative. Ultimately, the decisions you make while preparing for breast augmentation surgery are personal ones that must take into consideration your individual goals and expectations. A good place to start your search is the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.