Breast Augmentation Procedure
One of the first things I learned here at Boulder Plastic Surgery is that there are quite a few misconceptions that people have when it comes to the different types of breast surgeries we perform. People were often surprised that there were different options besides breast enlargement. As a result, I thought it would be a good idea to make an overview of the four different types of breast surgery we offer.
Breast augmentation is the most well-known type of surgery we perform; surgical breast enlargement has been performed for decades, although the methods have changed over time. The breast features two main parts: the breast tissue, which is surrounded by the skin envelope. Breast augmentation is designed to increase the volume of the skin envelope, increasing the size and preserving all of the natural features, so that it does not appear as if they have been altered or operated on.
Implant replacement is a natural side effect of breast augmentation. Sometimes, for one reason or another, an implant needs to be replaced. Whatever the reason is, it is not something that is undergone lightly, and it usually occurs due to infection, malposition, scar tissue formation, or fibrosis.
Luckily, implant replacement is a very quick outpatient surgery with a fast recovery time.
Breast reduction is generally performed on patients who will eventually suffer problems due to their breasts. In many cases, a breast reduction is recommended if it’s thought that your current breast size could cause damage to your spine as you age.
Other potential factors that could lead to a breast reduction include shoulder grooving due to a heavy bra, rashes under the breast, limitations in activities like aerobics and sports, and even social embarrassment. With this procedure, the breasts are typically lifted and reshaped as well. In a breast reduction, the skin envelope is reduced and some breast tissue may be removed as well.
Breast reduction for men is a different process that is similar to liposuction, used to remove excess glandular tissue, often for the same reasons as standard breast reduction.
No matter what cosmetic surgery you’re looking into, it’s important to have all of the facts and to consult with a plastic surgeon before making any decisions.