You know that you want to have breast augmentation surgery done, but you are not quite sure about the different procedures out there. You know you want implants, but you aren’t sure where or what type.
This article will give you a quick rundown on where breast implants can be placed. It will also give you information about types of breast implants are available and the pros and cons of each and how to choose an implant size.
Implant Placement
Implants are placed behind breast tissue in three main spots: subglandular, partial submuscular, and complete submuscular.
Subglandular puts the breast implant under the breast but above the muscles in the chest. This is the easiest of the procedures.
Partial submuscular puts the breast implant partially under the muscles of the chest.
Complete submuscular is exactly as the name described: the implant is placed completely under the chest muscles. This is the most difficult of the procedures and requires addition training.
Implant Types: Saline, Silicone, and Gummy Bear
There are many varieties of breast implants. They have differences in surface, shape, size, and filler material. The type you choose is based on your body’s anatomy and your goals for the procedure. Shape, volume and profile of the implant are selected based on the goals you have set for your procedure.
There are two main fillers available: saline and silicone. Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water and can be adjusted during surgery for precise sizing, but they may feel slightly less natural. Saline implants are safe in that in case of rupture, the material is safely absorbed into the skin. The drawback to saline implants is that they are more visible through the skin.
Silicone gel implants are popular because they offer a softer, more realistic breast feel. The newest generation, often called gummy bear implants, are made of highly cohesive silicone gel that holds its shape even if the shell ruptures, providing a teardrop contour that many patients find very natural.
Your doctor will fully discuss these options with you and help you make an informed decision regarding your breast augmentation surgery.
Implant Profile and Shape
Implants come in different profiles — low, moderate, moderate plus, and high profile — which determine how far the implant projects from the chest wall.
High-profile implants create more fullness and projection, which can be ideal for women with narrower chests who want more dramatic results.
Shape is another consideration: round implants provide more upper pole fullness, while anatomical (teardrop) implants create a more gradual slope that mimics the natural breast. Your choice will depend on whether you want a natural enhancement or a more augmented appearance.
Choosing an Implant Size for Your Body
When it comes to breasts, you have probably heard it before, but bigger is not necessarily better. Each woman is unique, and different types and sizes of anatomy can support different sizes of breasts.
Your surgeon will measure how broad your chest is, the width of your breasts and the distance in between the breasts. These measurements will help your surgeon determine the optimum size of your breasts.
Another important factor is making sure you have enough loose skin to cover your implant and that your breasts are symmetrical.
Implant size is measured in cc (cubic centimeters), typically ranging from 200cc to 800cc or more. Bringing “wish photos” of your ideal look can be very helpful, and many surgeons offer 3D imaging or sizers you can try on during consultation.
Also, it is useful to remember that bigger breasts do not necessarily mean cleavage, cleavage is dependent on the amount of space in between your breasts. If you want cleavage, let your doctor know!