BREAST AUGMENTATION BASICS
Breast augmentation costs depends upon each patient’s preferences in terms of the size of the breast implants she wants. When it comes to breast augmentation, one size does not fit all. As each patient has her own body type and preferences, the type and size of breast implants she chooses will depend upon her ultimate goals in terms of physical appearance, social perceptions and self-esteem.
The Estetica Institute appreciates the individual nature of breast augmentation procedures, and its surgeons thoroughly consult with patients, to ensure that the patient gets the right type and size of breast implants she wants, and to help her achieve the desired look that she wants. When a patient comes to the Estetica Institute of the Palm Beaches for breast augmentation, she meets with one of the facility’s board-certified Palm Beach cosmetic surgeons for a one-on-one consultation that includes pre-op visualization and 3-D imaging. Patients can virtually see how they will look with different sizes of breast implants. During this time, the surgeon will go over the procedure with the patient and answer any questions that she may have.
After the patient has determined the size and type of breast implants that she wants, the Estetica Institute in West Palm Beach, Florida will obtain the desired implants.
Breast Augmentation
Breast Augmentation, also referred to as Augmentation Mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that reshapes and enlarges the breasts. It is our most popular procedure and can provide an amazing improvement in our patient’s beauty and self esteem. Breast Augmentation is usually performed to enlarge small underdeveloped breasts or breasts that have lost their shape due to having children or weight loss.
Breast Augmentation reshapes and enlarges a woman’s breast through the use of breast implants. The breast implants can consist of either saline or silicone depending on what the surgeon thinks will be best for the patient.
Some patients may undergo Breast Augmentation in conjunction with a Breast Lift which allows us to reshape and tighten the breast tissue.
Reasons for Considering
- Enlarge small breasts.
- Make breasts larger after having children or breast feeding.
- To reshape the breast and give a fuller appearance.
- Restore breasts that undergone lumpectomy or mastectomy.
General Procedure
Breast Augmentation is performed by surgically inserting breast implants through a small incision made below the breast or in the lower part of the areola or in the axilla. Prior to the surgery, the doctor and the patient will discuss the best place to insert the implant. In addition, ideal implant size selection will be discussed at length in order to achieve the desired volume and shape. Once the incisions are made, the surgeon creates a pocket either behind the breast tissue (subglandular) or beneath the pectoralis major muscle (submuscular). The breast implants are positioned within the pocket and the incisions are then closed with layered sutures and tape.
The procedure is performed in our accredited surgical center under IV sedation. It usually takes about one hour and most patients go home within 30 minutes after the procedure. We have dramatically improved this procedure and the post operative discomfort by avoiding any bleeding and manipulating the muscle and breast tissue very gently. In addition, long acting anesthetic blocks area injected around the ribs at the end of the procedure thus almost eliminating any pain for several hours after the procedure.
Recovery Process
After having surgery, the patient needs to stay home and rest for about 24 hours. We recommend an early return to normal activity, however. Showering is allowed 48 hours after the procedure. Dressing is a simple surgical bra that we provide. Sutures are removed after seven days, and easy breast massage techniques are taught to minimize the chance of capsular contractures. We provide pain medications that you probably need to take for only a couple of days although the discomfort levels vary from patient to patient.
At Estetica, we strive to give our patients the specialized care and attention they have come to expect. When it comes to breast augmentation, Estetica Institute provides world-class results for both local and international patients.
During your complimentary consultation you will be able to discuss all your questions and concerns with your surgeon. Our highly trained staff is here to help from your initial consultation through your recovery.
Types of Breast Implants
There are several options and several types of implants and even options for how the implant will be located in the body. Patients can choose silicone or saline as the fluid inside the implant, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages to be weighed by the patient in consultation with their surgeon:
SALINE IMPLANTS
Advantages
- Peace of mind for those who are unsure of silicone gel
- Leaks are easily detectable
- Increased projection when desired
- For purely cosmetic breast augmentation can be used at age 18
- Slightly lower capsular contracture rate
Disadvantages
- Higher risk of rippling
- More easily palpable (feels less natural in most cases)
- Increased projection when not desired
- Stiffer result
- Slightly higher leakage rate
SILICONE IMPLANTS
Advantages
- Softer more natural feel
- Lower risk of rippling
- Decreased projection when desired
- Moves more like a natural breast
- More profiles (shapes) available
Disadvantages
- Leaks are harder to detect
- Decreased projection when desired
- Slightly higher capsular contracture rates
- Body makes scar in response to a leak
- For purely cosmetic breast augmentation can be used at age 22 or older
GUMMY BEAR IMPLANTS
The gummy bear implant is a relatively new arrival in the breast implant manufacturing industry. It is a departure from the traditional shell-and-filler design in that it a more solid piece. The silicone used is at a higher concentration, resulting in a firmer feel. This silicone also has a lower likelihood of leaking if there is a rupture in the implant.
Implant Location
You can have your implants placed above the muscle (subglandular) or below the muscle (subpectoral).
Your plastic surgeon will decide which placement location is best for you based on your goals, breast type and other factors.
The location choice will be part of your surgical plan.
Dr. Greg DeLange is a highly trained and experienced Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. He graduated from the University of Miami School of Medicine and then completed his Surgery Residency at the University of Texas. After completing a year as Chief Resident, he followed his General Surgical training with an additional two years of Plastic Surgery Fellowship at the prestigious University of Florida Shands Hospital. Dr. DeLange has performed over 20,000 Plastic Surgical cases and is certified by the distinguished American Board of Plastic Surgery.
Dr. Justin Bellamy is a Plastic surgeon specializing in aesthetic surgery of the face and body. He graduated with honors from Yale University followed by medical training at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and NYU Langone Medical Center. He subsequently completed advanced fellowship training in rhinoplasty and cutting-edge facelift techniques at Dallas Plastic Surgery Institute, the #1 aesthetic surgery training fellowship in the US. He has authored over 35 peer-reviewed scientific manuscripts, book chapters, and surgical video tutorials with a focus on aesthetic surgery. He is the recipient of several awards at national conferences for his dedication to improving aesthetic surgery outcomes.
