Breast augmentation is the most commonly performed cosmetic surgery in the world, but it is not without its doubts. So that you can make an informed decision, we leave you with a complete guide to breast augmentation.
The breast is a symbol of femininity, so it's no wonder that having beautiful, toned breasts is what many women want. All the more so as we live in a time when physical appearance is extremely valued, but cosmetic surgery has been able to respond. The decision to enlarge and/or correct the shape of the breasts has been in exponential demand all over the world, and Portugal is no exception. The breast augmentation It is a relatively simple surgery, quick to perform, with excellent results and easy recovery. Here's a complete guide to this surgery, where you can find answers to the most frequently asked questions
1- What is the purpose of breast augmentation?
The breast augmentation its aim is to increase the volume of small breasts or breasts that have not developed according to the woman's expectations, to correct breast changes after pregnancy and to correct asymmetries and other breast changes.
2- Who is breast augmentation recommended for?
The candidates for breast augmentation must have reached full breast development. In addition, women who undergo breast augmentation surgery must be emotionally mature and understand their own motivations for having the surgery.
3- Are there different types of prostheses?
It's important to know that there are different types of breast prostheses with different fillings, coatings, shapes and sizes. No two women's breasts are the same and they don't all want the same result. It is therefore possible to adapt the choice of implants to the physical characteristics and results that each woman wishes to achieve. In filling, prostheses can be silicone gel or saline solution. Regarding coating, can be smooth surface, textured or polyurethane. As for shape differ between round implants, tend to make the chest appear more voluminous and projecting; and the drop implants, They are designed for a more anatomical effect similar to that of a natural breast. With regard to size, Breast implants can come in various sizes, usually measured in CC (cubic centimetres - unit of volume). Breast implant sizes vary from one supplier laboratory to another, but as a rule they start at just over 100 CC, up to 800 CC.
4- Where is the breast implant placed?
There are different approaches to breast implant placement and the choice should be based on the surgeon's experience, the patient's anatomy, the patient's preference and the position of the prosthesis.
- Subglandular approachwhen the prosthesis is placed below the mammary gland and above the muscle;
- Submuscular approachwhen the prosthesis is placed under the muscle;
- Dual Plane TechniqueAlso known as double plane. This is one of the most widely used techniques and has the advantage that the prosthesis is practically unnoticeable as the implant is placed under the pectoralis major muscle.
5- How long do the implants last?
Breast implants don't have an exact expiry date Their durability is linked to their quality and the characteristics of each woman's body and reaction to the implants. It is advisable to go for check-ups to assess the condition of the prostheses over time.
6- Where are the breast augmentation scars?
There are 3 locations most often used for the placement of the prosthesis and the resulting scar.
- The periareolar approach: is one of the areas where the scar is most concealed, becoming almost unnoticeable due to the natural colour transition in this area.
- The inframammary approachThis is one of the most widely used approaches as it allows direct access to the breast area. The scar is located in the natural inframammary fold at the bottom of the breast, which allows the scar to be hidden.
- The axillary approach: the least used. The incision is made in the armpit and the scars are well hidden in the armpits, being visible only when the arms are raised.
7- What is the post-operative period like for breast augmentation?
The post-operative period of breast augmentation is usually quiet and well tolerated. The recovery period required for the patient to return to work or other daily activities is approximately one week. However, there are precautions you should take into account: wearing a special containment bra at all times, restricting physical activity and sleeping on your stomach for a few weeks.
8- Does breast augmentation interfere with breastfeeding?
Silicone prostheses do not interfere with breastfeeding, but there are more suitable techniques for women who want to breastfeed in the future. In these cases breast implants should be placed below the breast tissue, This tissue is responsible for milk production and the inframammary route. The breast tissue is only pushed forwards by the implant, so the ability to breastfeed is not compromised.
