Posted on July 14, 2016
When considering breast surgery, there are three main questions that the patient should answer:
1) Do I want to be larger?
2) Do I want to improve my breast shape?
3) Do I want to be smaller?
Once these questions have been answered, it becomes much simpler to determine the appropriate operation.
If a patient wants to be larger, increasing the volume of the breast can be accomplished with breast augmentation. Implant options include saline, round silicone gel, and shaped silicone (gummy bear — also known as form stable). In certain instances, a patient may be a candidate for breast augmentation using their body’s own fat, but this requires a discussion with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine candidacy and ensure patient safety. To personalize the procedure, breast augmentation patients must make four important decisions prior to the procedure.
If a patient wants to improve breast shape, a mastopexy (breast lift) can help achieve this. A mastopexy puts the nipple back in the correct position and orientation, and can achieve a more youthful-appearing breast shape. The result of this procedure often creates a breast shape and appearance that is similar to what the patient’s breasts looked like prior to pregnancy, breastfeeding, and/or weight changes.
If a patient would like their breasts to be smaller, a breast reduction is likely the best option. A breast reduction is designed to not only make a breast smaller, but also improve the shape and appearance of the breast. A breast reduction can sometimes be covered by insurance, although coverage often requires that a specific amount of breast tissue is removed. Depending on the patient’s preferences, this may or may not be compatible with what they would like, in terms of aesthetics.
Some patients might require both a lift and breast implants because they want to be larger, as well as improve the appearance and shape of their breasts. This operation is called an augmentation-mastopexy, and can be completed as a single surgery for most patients.
To learn more about the different breast surgery options we offer, or to schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons, please contact us today.
