When you’re planning breast augmentation surgery, you have several options to choose from, each with unique pros and cons. Learning about the different types of breast augmentation procedures can help you feel more confident, informed, and prepared for your surgery. We’ll walk you through the basics of each method so you can start narrowing down which might be the best fit for you.
Your Breast Augmentation Choices
Saline Implants
What Are They? Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater (saline solution). Your surgeon inserts them empty and then fills them after they’re placed. This usually means you’ll have a smaller incision site. Plus, if a rupture happens, your body will absorb the saline solution, though the implant itself will deflate.
Why Choose Saline Implants? Many people appreciate the peace of mind these implants provide. Knowing that if there’s a rupture or leak, the saline solution will absorb without causing an issue can help you feel more relaxed about getting implants. Saline implants may also be less expensive than silicone devices. The downside is that saline implants may feel less natural and may cause visible ripples under the skin, especially if you have thinner skin and breast tissue.
Silicone Implants
What Are They? Silicone implants are prefilled with a thick, gel-like substance that closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. Because they come prefilled, the incisions your surgeon makes will need to be slightly larger than those necessary for saline implants.
Why Choose Silicone Implants? The major benefit of silicone implants is their more natural look and texture. If you don’t have a lot of organic breast tissue or you’ve had a procedure like a mastectomy, silicone implants may provide a smoother contour. One drawback of these implants is that it may be less noticeable if one does rupture. You could need an MRI to confirm the presence of a leak. That’s why your surgeon will recommend regular (typically annual) check-ups to monitor your implants for any issues.
Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation
What Is It? Instead of placing an implant, fat transfer uses fat from your own body. Your surgeon will first perform liposuction to remove fat (usually from your abdomen, thighs, or hips). Next, they purify these cells and inject them into your breasts. This approach may give you a modest increase in breast size and a natural-looking result.
Why Choose Fat Transfer? If you’re looking for a subtle, organic change or like the idea of an implant-free breast augmentation, this might be the best choice for you. Since the procedure uses your own tissue, there’s no risk of an implant rupture or rejection. The thing to remember is that the increase in breast size will likely be less dramatic compared to implants. Not everyone is a good candidate since you’ll need enough excess fat on other parts of your body to make this procedure happen.
Breast Augmentation: Procedure & Recovery
No matter the type of breast augmentation you choose, you’ll typically receive general anesthesia for the surgery. The location of your incisions (around the areola, under the breast crease, or in the armpit) will depend on factors like the type of implant, your body shape, and your surgeon’s recommendations.
Immediate Aftermath: Expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort for a few days. Your surgeon will likely recommend a supportive surgical bra or compression garment to help reduce swelling and keep everything stable as you heal.
Long-Term Healing: Within a few weeks, you’ll likely feel up to returning to many of your normal activities, but you should still avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise until you get the all-clear from your surgeon. Full healing and final results can take a few months.
Why Consultation Is Key
Factors like your body type, health background, aesthetic goals, and personal preferences should all be taken into consideration before your breast augmentation. An experienced plastic surgeon will discuss these factors with you at your consultation, recommend the best approach, and explain the potential risks and benefits.
Seattle Plastic Surgery is an excellent choice if you’re looking for in-depth advice and top-tier surgical care. Our team of board-certified surgeons has extensive experience with breast augmentations of all types, allowing you to choose the procedure method that fits your specific needs.
Explore Your Breast Augmentation Options At Seattle Plastic Surgery
Whether you’re leaning toward saline, silicone, or fat transfer, understanding your choices is the first step toward feeling confident about your decision. A one-on-one consultation with one of the qualified plastic surgeons at Seattle Plastic Surgery can help you explore your options and set realistic expectations.
When you’re ready to learn more or want to discuss which Breast Augmentation Surgeon in Seattle, WA method might be right for you, reach out to Seattle Plastic Surgery. We can help you schedule a consultation schedule with one of our highly experienced plastic surgeons so you can begin your personalized path toward a new look and renewed self-confidence.
Call us at (206) 324-1120 or get in touch with us through our online contact form today!
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Dr. Jonov is a cosmetic surgeon who specializes in plastic surgeries of the face, breast, and body at Seattle Plastic Surgery.
