Overview of Breast Augmentation, a Reading plastic surgeon gives his take.
Breast augmentation is one of the most common plastic surgery procedures performed today. Patients have the option of choosing saline or cohesive silicone gel implants to enhance the breasts. Currently, there are two manufacturers producing implants in the United States that are approved by the FDA. Recently, a third manufacturer was granted FDA approval to sell silicone gel implants. At the Proserpi-Schlechter Center for Plastic Surgery the vast majority of patients elect to have the procedure performed with cohesive silicone gel implants.
What kind of implants are best?
When comparing both types of implants, patients observe that the silicone gel implants have a more natural breast-like feel. Also, in examining the implants it is noted that the edge of a silicone gel implant is smooth as compared to the scalloped edge of a saline implant. The irregular edge of a saline implant can be noticeable in patients who have a thin body habitus.
What Surgical Approach is best for breast implant insertion?
At the Proserpi-Schlechter Center for Plastic Surgery, Reading, Pennsylvania the preferred approach for placement of breast implants is through an incision under the breast referred to as an inframmary incision. This approach is preferred because studies have shown this approach statistically has a lower risk of developing an entity called capsular contracture. A capsular contracture may result after implant placement where the capsule that normally forms around an implant thickens and tightens. This can distort the breast and may ultimately become uncomfortable. There is no known absolute cause as to why capsular contractures occur.
Patients find breast implants to be very natural and “feel a part of them.” Perhaps the biggest fear with breast implant surgery, as well as, any surgery is fear of the unknown. Our patients overall find the breast augmentation surgery experience to be better than they expected. Discomfort tends to be minimal for most patients.
What is Vectra 3D Imaging?
The Proserpi-Schlechter Center for Plastic Surgery now offers Vectra 3D imaging. This is a very useful tool that allows the patient to see within a reasonable degree of accuracy what she will look like following breast augmentation surgery. It is a very good resource to help a patient choose the ideal size breast implant for the breast enhancement. The biggest concern for women undergoing breast augmentation is not choosing the correct or appropriate size breast implant. The Vectra 3D imager significantly takes the guesswork out of choosing breast implants. The imager works by taking a 3D image of a patient’s upper body. The breast area can then be isolated and a simulated breast augmentation may be performed. The imager even allows for simulation of the patient wearing a tank top. This is helpful as it gives a reasonable depiction of how the patient will look like with and without clothing.
How do I schedule an Appointment?
The Proserpi-Schlechter offers complimentary consultations for breast augmentation surgery. There is a fee for Vectra 3D imaging; however, this is credited if surgery is performed. Call 610-678-9200 to schedule a complimentary consultation at the Proserpi-Schlechter Center for Plastic Surgery. Please ask to speak to, Ivy, the doctor’s cosmetic surgery coordinator. The Proserpi-Schlechter Center for Plastic Surgery in Reading, Pennsylvania looks forward to helping you with all your plastic surgery needs. For more information please visit the breast augmentation page of my website.
