Your Breast Augmentation Options
Once you have decided to get breast implants, there are a number of variables that go into creating your ideal result. Dr. Basu will work with you to determine a surgical plan that best meets your individual needs.
Implant Sizing
Perhaps the most crucial decision after choosing a surgeon is the right implant size. Breast implant sizes vary widely, so you and Dr. Basu should be able to find an implant to suit your needs at your in-depth implant sizing consultation.
To determine your ideal breast implant size, Dr. Basu will consider factors such as:
- Your body proportions
- The amount of existing breast tissue
- The look you want to achieve
Breast implants are measured in cubic centimeters (cc), with common sizes ranging from 200 to 800 cc. As you go larger, the implant will increase in both diameter and projection. It is important that you and Dr. Basu communicate very candidly about your body proportions and the look you want so that you can achieve your desired outcome.
Implant Types
Women can choose either saline or silicone gel filled breast implants. During your initial consultation with Dr. Basu, he will provide breast implant samples that you can feel and give you a more detailed breakdown of the advantages and limitations of each type of implant.
In general, women find that silicone gel implants feel softer and more natural than saline-filled implants, and worldwide, this is the most popular choice. However, some women prefer saline-filled implants because they are less expensive, can be placed through smaller incisions, and the saline is harmlessly absorbed by the body if the implant ever ruptures. Although silicone gel implants have a well-established safety record, some women feel more at ease with saline.
Both types of implant come in either a round shape or a teardrop shape (called anatomical). Dr. Basu will help you determine which of these will be best suited to your body and your goals.
Implant profile refers to the projection of the implant from the chest wall. Lower-profile implants tend to have a wider base and typically are not well-suited to women with a narrow or petite frame. Higher profile implants have a narrower base, thus more projection away from the chest. The ideal profile for you will depend on your frame, your desired size, and the shape you want to achieve.
Incision Location
One of the biggest concerns women have when undergoing breast augmentation is the appearance of scars. Dr. Basu utilizes very small incisions which can be made under the breast hidden in your breast crease (inframammary), around the areola (periareolar), in the axilla (armpit), or in the bellybutton.
The inframammary and periareolar incisions are the most commonly used because they provide the most direct access to the breast pocket. If, in the future, a patient requires a revisionary procedure, these incisions would be re-used, creating no additional scarring. These are both well-concealed and ultimately fade to the point that they are very hard to detect.
An armpit or bellybutton incision requires a saline implant because these can be inserted empty, then filled after they are placed within the breast pocket. Neither of these incision types allows direct access to the breast pocket, which is why many surgeons do not offer them. Dr. Basu will discuss these options with you if you are looking for an incision that is entirely concealed.
Implant Placement
Breast implants can be placed above or below the muscles of the chest wall. Above the muscle is called subglandular, as the implant is placed just beneath the breast glandular tissue and on top of the pectoralis muscle. Beneath the muscle placement is called submuscular, which means the implant is covered by both the muscle and the breast glandular tissue.
While subglandular placement offers a simpler, more comfortable recovery, it is typically not the preferred placement. Because the implant has less tissue coverage, this approach is more prone to visible rippling (with saline implants) or showing an obvious outline of the implant.
Dr. Basu specializes in the advanced dual-plane technique, also known as partially under the muscle, which can help women with slightly drooping breasts achieve beautiful results without having to undergo a breast lift.
Your Breast Augmentation Surgery
During your consultation, Dr. Basu will discuss your goals and concerns regarding breast augmentation and develop a surgical plan that best addresses your needs. He will also explain the surgical procedure in greater detail and what you can expect during your recovery. He will take a great deal of time during your consultation to ensure that all of your questions are answered and you feel confident in proceeding.
Your procedure will take place at our state-of-the-art AAAASF accredited surgical facility. Dr. Basu uses general anesthesia, administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist, while performing breast augmentation surgery.
He will begin by making the incision at the appropriate location. He will then create a pocket for the implant, place the implant, and carefully close the incision with sutures underneath the skin. Your chest will be wrapped in bandages and a supportive surgical garment.
Your Recovery & Results
After your surgery, you will be discharged into the care of a friend or family member who will drive you home. It is best to have someone available to stay with you for the first 24 hours after your surgery.
You will need to rest for several days and avoid lifting anything. You should get up and walk around a little bit every hour to aid with circulation and help prevent the formation of blood clots.
Dr. Basu will ask you to wear a special compression bra as you recover, and he will advise you as to when you can switch to a regular bra. Underwire bras should not be worn until Dr. Basu gives you explicit permission, as they can restrict blood flow to the surgical site and inhibit healing.
Most breast augmentation patients find that taking a week off from work is adequate. You can gradually resume your normal activities over the weeks and months following your surgery. Most women can see their final breast enlargement results within 6 months. Dr. Basu will give you more detailed postoperative instructions at your final pre-op appointment.
