Depending on the answers to these questions, a large variety of treatment options potentially exist. Each patient should be considered individually since no two patients are the same. Patients may have unique anatomic findings and specific aesthetic goals that impact their treatment plan. In general terms, data shows that the majority of implants are placed under the muscle through an inframammary approach. There is a greater tendency to use silicone gel implants than saline implants, but saline implants are still used frequently. When breast sag is present, most surgeons perform a breast lift but occasionally plastic surgeons place the implants on top of the muscles to avoid scarring.
There’s no best breast implant. Silicone breast implants tend to feel more natural than saline breast implants and offer a distinct advantage in patients with minimal amounts of soft tissue coverage. The advantages of saline breast implants include smaller incisions and less expense.
It’s important that each patient be carefully evaluated by a board-certified plastic surgeon who has experience with breast augmentation. It’s essential that he or she listens to you and understands your aesthetic goals. It’s also important that you listen to your plastic surgeon; he or she may recognize anatomic findings that might prevent you from accomplishing your aesthetic goals. These discussions need to occur before surgery, not after surgery. This results in less confusion and patients who are ultimately happy with their breast augmentation.
