Navigating information about plastic surgery can be confusing, especially when various terms refer to the same procedure. This blog discusses breast augmentation, how it differs from other breast procedures, and who can benefit.
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Understanding Plastic Surgery Procedures
In today’s day and age, plastic surgery feels more prevalent and socially accepted than ever before. From celebrities posting on social media about the latest cosmetic enhancements they’ve received to the everyday person getting a procedure to boost their confidence, plastic surgery has become significantly more accessible. The average person is probably able to name at least a couple of plastic surgery procedures off the top of their head; yet, even with its popularity, there are often misunderstandings and unanswered questions about what these procedures entail.
Breast augmentation is consistently one of the most popular plastic surgery options, and while many people have probably heard of it, not everyone is aware of how it works and the results it achieves. Additionally, breast augmentation can sometimes be confused with other breast procedures, such as breast lift, breast reduction, and breast reconstruction.
What Are the Different Types of Breast Procedures?
To get a clear understanding of what breast augmentation is, it’s helpful to know what it is not.
- Breast Lift: Targets sagging breasts by reshaping the breast tissue, lifting the nipple-areolar complex, and trimming excess breast skin to produce a perky, elevated look.
- Breast Reduction: Makes naturally large breasts a more manageable size by removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin.
- Breast Reconstruction: Restores the appearance of breasts for breast cancer patients who have undergone a mastectomy or lumpectomy.
Breast augmentation is a breast enhancement surgery that increases breast volume, creating a fuller and more symmetrical aesthetic. This procedure is also commonly known by other names, such as boob job or augmentation mammaplasty. Breast implants are almost always used for breast augmentation unless the patient has chosen a fat transfer breast augmentation, which utilizes the patient’s excess body fat to increase the breasts’ size.
A consultation is required before surgery so the patient can meet with the surgeon and discuss their medical history and goals. The surgeon will also examine the patient’s breasts and recommend which implant type and size best suit their desired look.
What’s the Difference Between Breast Implants and Breast Augmentation?
This frequently asked question seems to stem from a misunderstanding that there is a difference between the two terms. Since silicone or saline implants are an essential part of breast augmentation surgery, the term “breast implants” is also sometimes used synonymously with breast augmentation.
Silicone implants are made of a silicone gel that has a texture that mimics the feel of breast tissue. Saline implants are composed of sterile salt water and tend to have a rounder shape and a firmer feel. The best type of breast implant will vary from patient to patient. During your consultation, your surgeon can help you make an informed decision based on your body type and breast goals.
Who Can Benefit From Breast Augmentation?
Women who are looking to increase their breast size and enhance their breast shape may be good candidates for breast augmentation. Other factors that may make someone an ideal candidate include if you:
- Want to correct breast asymmetry
- Have naturally smaller breasts
- Have experienced loss of breast volume due to pregnancy or weight loss
- Want to make your breast size proportional to the rest of your features
- Have reasonable goals for your procedure
Want to Know More About Breast Augmentation in San Diego, CA?
Breast augmentation can be an incredibly transformative procedure for women, allowing them to feel more confident in their bodies. To learn more about breast augmentation in San Diego or to schedule a consultation with Coastal Plastic Surgeons, call (858) 365-3558 or complete our online contact form today.