When it comes to cosmetic breast surgery, most people immediately think of breast implants, though they are far from the only option when it comes to procedures to change the size or shape of the breasts.
Breast augmentation
Breast augmentation, the most popular form of cosmetic breast surgery, is the procedure often referred to as a "boob job."
Performed to increase the size of the breasts and enhance their physical appearance, this procedure involves the insertion of saline or silicone gel implants. The implant is either placed directly behind the breast tissue, or underneath the underlying pectoral muscle. The goal of breast enhancement typically include making smaller breasts larger, balancing asymmetrical breasts, or restoring fullness lost due to age or pregnancy.
Reconstructive breast surgery
Reconstructive breast surgery is a specific type of breast augmentation procedure. Performed after one or both breasts have been lost to cancer or other health issues, this procedure uses breast implants or donor muscle and skin to create a more natural-looking and feminine bustline. This procedure is typically recommended for women who have undergone mastectomy or who have significantly asymmetrical breasts.
Those who have undergone breast augmentation or reconstructive breast surgery may need to undergo breast implant revision at some point in the future, as most implants have an expected lifespan of about ten years. During this procedure, the implants are removed or replaced.
While these procedures increase the size of the breasts, another type of cosmetic breast surgery, breast reduction, is intended for those whose breasts are overly large. During this procedure, excess breast tissue is removed, reducing the overall size of the breasts. In some cases, liposuction is used to remove excess fat cells from the breast area. Patients who undergo breast reduction often do so because their large breasts have caused back and shoulder pain. This procedure is also performed on men suffering from gynecomastia, or abnormal breast development.
Breast Lift
The final type of cosmetic breast surgery, known as a breast lift, improves the shape of the breasts, rather than affecting their overall size. During breast lift surgery, the skin and surrounding tissues are lifted to counteract the drooping and sagging that happens due to gravity. Also known as mastopexy, this cosmetic surgery procedure can restore firmness and shape to the breasts. Many women choose to combine a breast lift with breast augmentation.
If you are unhappy with the size or shape of your breasts, schedule a consultation with a plastic surgeon. Whether you feel that your breasts are too large, too small, or too droopy, or have lost one or both breasts due to health issues, there is a cosmetic breast procedure to improve the size and shape of your breasts.
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