Tucson Breast Implants

Plastic surgery in the form of Breast augmentation is a popular plastic surgery procedure whereby saline or silicone implants are used to increase a patient's breast size. Augmentation may be a potential option for patients who have lost breast volume due to weight loss or breast cancer surgery, or who are otherwise dissatisfied with the size of their breasts.

BREAST IMPLANTS:
Breast implant options include different shapes and styles as well as the choice between silicone or saline. Breast implants of both types have FDA-approval and are used worldwide. A silicone elastomer shell comprises the translucent outer layer of both silicone and saline implants. During surgery, doctors inject saline implants with a sterile saline solution. Silicone implants, which are no longer banned by the FDA, are filled with a "cohesive" silicone gel that provides a more natural appearance and touch than saline.

WHERE BREAST IMPLANTS ARE PLACED
The options for breast implant placement include under the chest muscles, partially under them, or above them. There are four main breast augmentation surgical techniques available, which are based on where the incision is made:
• Inframammary. The more common inframammary technique uses an incision placed under the breast. The implant is placed above the pectoral muscles via an incision hidden in the crease where the chest and breast meet.
• Transaxillary (under arm). Scarring is minimized using this technique. The surgeon makes an incision in the armpit and then inserts the implant under the chest wall muscles in most cases.
• Transumbilical (navel). Instead of making an incision in the breast area, surgeons insert the implant through the belly button and move it up to the breast area on top of the pectoral muscles. Plastic surgeons generally do not prefer this method as it is believed to potentially cause a great deal of unnecessary internal trauma.
• Periareolar. An incision is made along the edge of the areola, where it will be well-hidden. The implant may be placed above, below or partially below the pectoral muscles.

WHO CAN GET A BREAST AUGMENTATION?
Physically and mentally healthy women with a good understanding of the surgery make the best candidates. Cardiac or other health problems, smoking, or serious self esteem issues may preclude a patient from getting breast enhancement surgery. Patients with unrealistic expectations about breast enhancement may be denied the surgery, and their doctors will discuss other options with them.

CHOOSING A PLASTIC SURGEON:
Patients will want to take into account several factors when selecting a surgeon to perform their breast enhancement surgery. It is recommended to choose a breast and body plastic surgeon who is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. These doctors focus primarily on reconstructive and plastic surgery and have completed more specialized training than general surgeons. The cosmetic surgeon you select should also have an excellent bedside manner and address all of your questions honestly as well as provide patient testimonials and photos of his or her previous work.