Advanced Techniques for Breast Augmentation

Several advanced techniques are available for breast augmentation , which is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic surgery procedures in the U.S. In 2011 alone, 307,000 women had the procedure done, an increase by 4 percent from the previous year.

Breast Enhancement with Implants

Techniques of augmentation differ with respect to the location of the incision. The type of incision in turn depends on these factors - individual anatomy, the kind and size of breast implants used and aesthetic goals.

Before proceeding to the different kinds of incisions, something may be mentioned about the two chief types of implants used for the plastic surgery procedure. They are saline and silicone implants, both of which have a silicone shell but differ in other respects.

Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water. They are inserted into the pocket empty and only filled after they are in position. They can usually be introduced into the body through smaller access incisions. These implants are available to women aged 18 and above for the purpose of breast augmentation and to women of any age for the purpose of breast reconstruction.

Silicone implants come pre-filled with silicone gel which means the manufacturer places the silicone in the implant. Owing to this, a bigger incision is required to position them. The implants are available to women of any age for the purpose of breast reconstruction and only to the age group of 22 and above for the purpose of enhancement.

Available Methods

The three access incisions usually used for breast augmentation surgery are beneath the breast, through the armpit or around the areola. Each of the access incision sites has its own set of benefits and disadvantages.

In addition to being the most used access incision, the incision beneath the breast is also the most versatile of techniques for this particular surgery. It provides for precise positioning of the implant, both beneath the breast parenchyma as well as beneath the muscle. This incision location is hidden from view in most clothing and is therefore a more popular choice. It also provides the choice of saline or silicone implants.

The armpit incision has the unique edge of being an incision that is remote from the breast. What's more, it heals well in the majority of patients. It provides better access for the positioning of implants under the muscle.

The third and last of the commonly used approaches is the incision around the areola, which has the unique advantage of being in the intersection of the lighter breast skin and the darker areola skin. This incision too is well-hidden even beneath the scantiest of bathing suits. Enhancement carried out through the areola may faintly heighten the risk of sensation changes of the nipple-areola complex. Also note that with this incision, it is possible to place silicone implants only if the areola is of a sufficient size.

A discussion with your plastic surgeon can help to determine the most suitable method for you from the various advanced techniques available for breast augmentation.