Breast augmentation is a widely sought cosmetic procedure for enhancing your breast size and shape. Whether for cosmetic enhancements or post-mastectomy reconstruction, you can now benefit from breast augmentation done by the best plastic surgeons at Novomed Saudi Arabia.
What is breast augmentation?
Breast augmentation, often called augmentation mammoplasty, is a kind of cosmetic surgery that aims to increase the size and form of a woman’s breasts. This is commonly achieved through the placement of breast implants or, in some cases, through fat transfer.
What is the goal of breast augmentation?
The goal of breast enlargement is to enhance proportions, fullness, and symmetry in accordance with the patient’s aesthetic goals. People who want a bustier bust, whether for aesthetic purposes or as a component of breast reconstruction after surgery or trauma, typically seek this out.
What are the types of breast augmentation?
Breast augmentation can be done in two primary ways: with implants or with fat transfer. Depending on your desired breast appearance and feel, you have many possibilities within those two broad categories.
- Breast Implants: These implants are typically made of a silicone pocket filled with either saline (sterile salt water) or silicone gel.
- Fat Transfer (Fat Grafting): In this method, liposuction is used to harvest fat from one part of the body (such as the thighs or abdomen), which is then purified and transferred into the breasts to enhance volume.
What are the types of breast implants?
Different types of breast implants are classified based on their filling material and structure. The two primary types are saline implants and silicone gel implants. Each has its own set of characteristics:
1. Saline Implants: These implants are filled with sterile saltwater solution, providing a naturally firm shape. While some might find them slightly less yielding than natural tissue, they offer several advantages. Firstly, their lower cost makes them a more accessible option. Secondly, their saline filling makes them easily detectable on mammograms, simplifying routine monitoring. And lastly, if their outer shell happens to rupture, the saline simply deflates naturally, minimizing the risk of complications.
2. Silicone Gel Implants: Silicone gel implants come closer to replicating the softness and natural movement of breast tissue. Their silicone filling provides a more realistic appearance and feel, maintaining its shape beautifully over time. Additionally, they’re less noticeable on mammograms compared to saline implants. However, it’s important to note their higher cost and the slightly increased risk of capsular contracture, a tissue tightening around the implant.
3. Structured Implants: Bridging the gap between saline and silicone, structured implants offer the best of both worlds. These multi-layered implants combine the natural feel of saline with the structured shape of silicone. This unique design results in a more natural movement and reduces the risk of rippling or capsular contracture, making them a popular choice for those seeking a subtle yet noticeable enhancement.
4. Gummy Bear Implants (Form-Stable Implants): Imagine implants with the nickname “gummy bear” – that’s how stable and consistent these implants are! Filled with a thick cohesive silicone gel, they hold their shape like a champ, even if the outer shell is compromised. This translates to an incredibly stable and natural feel, while minimizing the risk of deflation or rupture. Additionally, their smooth surface further reduces the chance of capsular contracture.
Each type of breast implants has its own pros and cons, and the best fit depends on your individual anatomy, desired outcome, and lifestyle. Our board-certified plastic surgeon in Saudi Arabia will help you explore the available options and choose the best implants to achieve your desired look.
What is breast augmentation with fat transfer?
Autologous fat grafting, or fat transfer breast augmentation, is a technique that uses liposuction to remove excess fat from an area of the body, usually the belly, thighs, or flanks, and then transplants it into the breasts. The gathered fat undergoes processing and purification to eliminate contaminants and unhealthy cells. The purified fat is then injected into the breasts to enhance their size and shape.
Am I a suitable candidate for breast augmentation?
The decision to undergo breast augmentation is deeply personal and motivated by a variety of factors. While some women seek to achieve a desired breast size or enhance body proportions, others have specific reasons that go beyond aesthetics. Here are some common motivations:
- Boosting self-confidence: For some women, breast augmentation can play a significant role in improving their self-image and fostering a sense of confidence in their bodies.
- Medical reconstruction: Following mastectomy due to cancer or other medical conditions, breast augmentation can help restore the physical and emotional well-being of women.
- Correcting asymmetry: Uneven breast size or shape can be a source of discomfort and self-consciousness. Augmentation can help achieve a more balanced and symmetrical appearance.
- Body contouring after pregnancy: Pregnancy and breastfeeding can lead to changes in breast shape and size. Augmentation can help restore desired fullness and lift.
- Addressing congenital conditions: Certain congenital conditions can affect breast development. Augmentation can help create a more natural appearance and address associated discomfort.
What happens during the consultation phase?
Our plastic surgeon will first examine your breasts and talk to you about your aesthetic goals. It would help if you were prepared to answer questions about your medical history, current medication usage, smoking status, and alcohol consumption. Asking yourself these questions can help you better understand the operation and decide if it is the correct choice. In addition to checking your vitals and breasts, the doctor will give you a full rundown of the procedure’s details and expected outcomes.
Asking your doctor any questions or concerns is best done at a consultation. It is expected to be anxious regarding breast augmentation surgery, and it is important to learn about the procedure thoroughly. Please do not be hesitant about telling your plastic surgeon how you feel about the process, whether it is anticipation of your new appearance or anxiety.
How is breast augmentation surgery performed?
Following the preparation and administration of necessary medications, the anesthesiologist will induce a general anesthetic, ensuring you are asleep throughout the procedure. The surgeon will strategically make an incision in the armpit area to minimize visible scarring on the breast. Subsequently, they will carefully insert the implant into a pocket below or above the pectoralis muscle, tailoring the method to the implant type, desired augmentation level, and your unique body characteristics. The incision will be meticulously closed with stitches, skin adhesive, and surgical tape, with the mark gradually becoming less noticeable over time and its discreet placement under the arm concealing it effectively.
What happens after breast augmentation?
You’ll be transferred to the recovery area following surgery for monitoring. Once your condition is stable, you can typically return home within a few hours. Before discharge, you’ll receive detailed instructions for the recovery period. The doctor will prescribe medications, including pain relievers and antibiotics, to facilitate healing.
Throughout recovery, you’ll wear a supportive garment, such as a bra or elastic bandage, to minimize swelling and support the healing breasts. Strenuous activities should be avoided initially, awaiting clearance from your physician to increase your activity level gradually. While acute pain usually diminishes within one to five days, mild discomfort and swelling may persist for a few weeks.
When can I see the result of breast augmentation?
The journey to your desired results after breast augmentation is a beautiful one, but it unfolds over time. While excitement bubbles within, it’s important to embrace a realistic timeline and understand the factors that affect both the visibility and longevity of your new curves.
In the initial phase, lasting around 6-8 weeks, your body begins the healing process. Swelling and bruising are your companions, and a supportive bra becomes your trusted friend, guiding the implants into their perfect position. During this time, you might see slight improvements, but the full picture still needs a little time to develop.
Over the next 3-6 months, the implants settle into their final resting place, softening and blending seamlessly with your natural tissue. Your breasts begin to resemble the vision you held in your mind, and you can finally enjoy the final result.
This timeframe, however, can be influenced by a few subtle factors. Silicone gel implants, for example, tend to settle and soften faster than their saline counterparts. Similarly, the chosen placement, whether beneath or above the muscle, can impact the settling process. Ultimately, each woman’s journey is unique, so embracing patience and allowing your body to heal at its own pace is key.
How long does the result of breast augmentation last?
Modern breast implants are designed to be your companions for many years, with an average lifespan of 10-15 years. However, just like everything else in life, certain factors can affect their endurance. Lifestyle habits, weight fluctuations, and even sun exposure can play a role. To ensure your implants stay in a good shape, regular check-ups with your plastic surgeon are vital. These visits allow for monitoring and proactive care, paving the way for long-lasting results.
Book your appointment at Novomed today!
Novomed in Saudi Arabia stands at the forefront of breast augmentation, offering you a transformative experience with the expertise of the best plastic surgeons in the region. Our dedication to enhancing individual confidence and well-being makes us a trusted destination for those seeking top-tier expertise in aesthetic procedures in Riyadh, Jeddah or anywhere in Saudi Arabia.
