Breast shape, size and appearance depend on many factors, including age, heredity, weight changes, pregnancy, sun exposure, physical activity, and congenital conditions. Having selected the desired size, shape and texture of implant, the surgeon then forms a “pocket” of breast tissue into which the implant is placed during the procedure.
Breast augmentation with implants can be carried out in various ways. The choice depends on the patient’s preference and on the recommendations given by the plastic surgeon during the consultation. The implant can be put in place through an incision in the armpit, through an incision under the breast or through an incision around the nipple. It is also possible to choose whether the implant will be under the gland (between the breast tissue and pectoral muscle), or under the muscle (either entirely or partly beneath the pectoral muscles, against the bony chest wall). Suitable implants can increase breast volume, provide the desired shape and reverse loss of breast firmness. It is important to note that breast augmentation alone cannot correct considerable breast ptosis; this requires a breast lift as an additional procedure.
Patients who opt for breast augmentation with implants should note that, although the results of this procedure are expected to be long lasting, the procedure cannot suspend normal age-related changes in breast shape, skin elasticity and volume.
