The New Look of Breast Augmentation
by Beauty Blogger Emmy Owens
Plastic surgery is an incredibly fast-moving field, encompassing both medical advancement and trends that change as often as the seasons. Because new products and techniques are constantly being refined and released, you may find that your own understanding of plastic surgery is actually a bit outdated. Here, we’ll review the latest advancements in breast augmentation, which routinely ranks as one of the nation’s top 5 plastic surgery procedures in annual statistics released by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
The Implants
Over the past few decades, we’ve seen plenty of advancements and changes in the material, shape, and other details of breast implants. It’s common for prospective patients to express some confusion about what’s currently available and what isn’t. Presently, the FDA has approved 2 main types of implants: saline and silicone. The former are filled with sterile saltwater, the latter with viscous silicone gel. Both types of implants use durable silicone shells.
Even within these 2 categories, there are variations. For example, silicone implants are available with either standard silicone gel or highly cohesive silicone gel. These popular implants are sometimes called “gummy bears” because they maintain their shape even when torn or broken, just like gummy candy.
Breast implants can be round for a boost in cleavage or anatomically shaped to better mimic the curve of a natural breast. Their shells may be smooth or lightly textured, and they come in a variety of projections to suit a wide range of bodies. If you’re seriously considering breast augmentation, your surgeon will guide you through the various options.
The Scar
Although many people imagine large, conspicuous scars after breast augmentation, today’s techniques often produce scars that are nearly undetectable. Making use of the natural curves of a woman’s body, most surgeons prefer to use an incision that follows the crease below the breast. This is called an inframammary incision. Other incision options include the periareolar, which traces along the lower edge of the areola, and the transaxillary, which is made in the armpit.
The Keller Funnelâ„¢ has also grown popular. This device is shaped somewhat like a pastry bag, and it delivers the implant into the breast using a “no-touch” technique. It also requires a much shorter incision than was commonly used in the past.
With proper care after surgery, breast augmentation incisions generally flatten and fade significantly, leaving behind subtle marks that are barely noticeable.
The Recovery
Today’s approach to breast augmentation has become so refined and streamlined that many patients are surprised by how brief and comfortable recuperation is. According to the website of Dr. Thomas McNemar, a plastic surgeon who specializes in breast augmentation near Stockton, California, many patients can transition from prescription pain medication to over-the-counter products just a few days after surgery and return to work within about a week. Of course, it’s still important for patients to avoid strenuous activities, especially those that require the upper body, during the healing process.
While breast augmentation patients typically take the day of surgery to snooze and relax at home, many feel well enough to run light errands (with the help of a friend, of course) as soon as the day after surgery.
To learn more about the latest options for breast augmentation, consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Search for surgeons in your area using this tool from the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
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Emmy Owens
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