Breast Augmentation Pittsburgh

Breast augmentation (augmentation mammaplasty), which enhances the size and shape of the breasts with the use of implants, is perhaps the most popular of all elective procedures. Fortunately, strict safety standards and the FDA regulation of implants ensure that the majority of today's patients enjoy attractive, uncomplicated results. And with multiple options for breast implant types and incision sites, Dr. Heil allows patients to take active roles in their surgical plans - an advantage that many women appreciate. For that reason, a basic knowledge of breast implants is necessary. If you are considering a breast augmentation, Pittsburgh friends will notice and want to explore your options, contact us today to learn more.

Breast Augmentation Pittsburgh: Implant Information

Chances are, you have heard of both implant types - saline and silicone gel - however, many prospective patients are unaware what differentiates the two. First, it should be noted that all implants are encased in a silicone rubber shell. The distinction lies in the filler materials: either saline (salt water), or silicone gel. Commonly, saline is acknowledged as the safer of the two, as it is a naturally occurring substance in the body.

However, silicone gel implants tend to look and feel more natural; the consistency is strikingly similar to natural breast texture. Obviously, one should never sacrifice safety for aesthetics; fortunately, though, there is good news for women who desire silicone gel implants. These implants are again considered equal in safety to saline implants, thanks to stricter FDA regulations and newer, more innovative versions, such as cohesive gel. Be sure to ask Dr. Heil about each of these options during your initial consultation.

Breast Augmentation Pittsburgh: Patient Considerations

Some of the most common reasons for requesting the procedure include enhancing underdeveloped breasts, regaining one's breast volume following pregnancy, and correcting breast asymmetry (imbalanced size).

No matter your reasons, Premier Plastic Surgery will provide you with a customized surgical plan by taking into consideration your:

Overall height and weight
Underlying chest and ribcage proportions
Skin tightness and elasticity
Natural breast tissue volume

Another consideration is the placement of your implants. Dr. Heil can either place your implant in the subglandular position (directly under the breast tissue) or subpectoral position (under the muscle of the chest wall). The distinction in outcome is as follows: Subpectoral placement tends to hide any imperfections in the implant itself (for example, visible edges or wrinkling). Many surgeons also find that implants generally retain their soft texture longer in the subpectoral position. However, the subglandular position can be excellent for patients whose breasts have a higher degree of ptosis situations; also, women who have a thicker, more muscular physique typically experience great results with the subglandular position.

Like the preceding details, the implant position will be determined during your consultation appointment with Dr. Heil. For more information on this first stage of your journey, please read on.

Breast Augmentation Pittsburgh: The Initial Consultation

During this pre-scheduled appointment at our practice, patients should plan to spend approximately one hour discussing their reasons and goals for undergoing breast augmentation. Patient medical history is also addressed; so, women should be prepared to answer questions regarding past surgeries and any major illnesses.

Next, patients have the opportunity to look at and feel various implant types, sizes, and shapes. This is meant to assist in determining which of the many breast implant choices is best. Patients can and should give their input during that time; however, the final decision will be made between doctor and patient during the exam portion of the visit. This is because a dimensional analysis will determine if the specific implant the patient desires will indeed bring about the most favorable aesthetic results. Dr. Heil also use sizers to help demonstrate potential results and compare various sizes the patient may be interested in. He finds that this is far more accurate than formulating a plan based on an arbitrary bra cup size. After all, every woman is unique - and each patient's results should reflect that.

Finally, the exam portion of the appointment takes place, wherein our Pittsburgh breast augmentation surgeon will evaluate the aforementioned characteristics of the breasts: their current breast size and shape, degree of ptosis (drooping), tissue health, skin tone, and conditions of the underlying bones (including breast and chest wall symmetry). Once the procedure has been scheduled, the patient will be given specific instructions regarding diet, exercise, smoking, and supplements; following these directions is imperative to ensure that her surgery and recovery will be as complication-free as possible.

Breast Augmentation Pittsburgh: The Surgical Procedure

Most patients are impressed by and pleased with their results, particularly following recovery. However, it should be noted that the eventual outcome is largely determined by a woman's pre-operative:

Breast shape/degree of ptosis
Natural volume from breast tissue
Skin tone on the breasts and upper body

When it comes to getting a breast augmentation Pittsburgh residents feel looks natural, you can find what you’re looking for at Premier Plastic Surgery. Our surgeon advises women to expect a great deal of improvement, rather than ultimate perfection. In fact, the consensus of most board certified plastic surgeons is that patients should plan on attractive results that appear subtle and natural, rather than a stark outcome that appears dramatically transformed.

Following a patient's awakening after the procedure, she is given strict post-operative care instructions. Like the pre-operative guidelines, these instructions involve diet, exercise, smoking, and supplements; however, they also deal with wardrobe and sleeping positions. It cannot be overstated that patients must follow these directions meticulously in order to experience a fast, fully healed recovery and optimally aesthetic results.