Breast Augmentation for Body Builders

It is not uncommon for female body builders to have breast augmentation surgery to further enhance their figure.  However, certain factors must be considered to achieve the best result and prevent or at least reduce the risk of complications.

One important thing to consider is that body builders in general have a very low percentage of body fats which predisposes them to higher risk of implant visibility and palpable rippling.  This is more of a concern if a patient’s breast has less tissue.

Because of this specific feature, plastic surgeons usually recommend the submuscular implant placement for female body builders.  With this technique, the breast implants are covered not just by the tissue and skin but also by pec muscle, reducing the risk of wrinkling and shell visibility.

However, the submuscular implant placement has its own downside.  While a body builder contracts her pectoralis muscle, chances are the breast implants will move along with it—something which is undesirable for some patients.  Also, they should bear in mind that it is difficult to predict “the degree of movement” after surgery.

By contrast, the subglandular implant placement or positioning of the device above the pec muscle does not pose the same problem.  For this reason, the technique may sound appealing to female body builders compared with the submuscular breast augmentation technique.

But as mentioned earlier, body builders are prone to implant rippling and wrinkling since they often have a low percentage of fats.  For this reason, they also have to consider what they are getting into if they would choose the subglandular implant placement over the submuscular.

Fortunately, a board certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast augmentation can guide his patient to make the right decision.

To put it succinctly, patients should choose which of those problems they definitely want to avoid, and think about the ramifications that will be acceptable for them.

The next issue to consider is whether to use saline or silicone breast implants.  Patients should bear in mind that the right implant type is determined by the amount of tissue and fat, the bust size they want to achieve, and the ramifications they are willing to accept.

In general, female body builders will benefit more with silicone breast implants because these are filled with a cohesive gel that mimics the way natural tissue feels.  By contrast, saline implants—due to their watery consistency—should be avoided particularly if the patients have low body fats because they usually lead to unnatural result. 

Things You Should Know During Your Breast Augmentation Recovery

Of course you are fully aware that breast augmentation, as with any cosmetic surgery, involves weeks of recovery.  However, you may be surprise that “weird” things—but still considered normal by plastic surgeons—may happen during your healing time.

If you are considering breast implant surgery, these are some of the things you might want to know about:

*  Squeaks and gushes in your breasts

In case that you hear these weird noises coming from your augmented breasts, don’t be alarmed since these are usually caused by air bubbles and/or fluid build-up within the implant pocket.

The buzzing, gurgling, and crackling noises that typically last a few weeks may also be caused by implants as they settle to their natural position.

*  Exaggerated fullness in the upper poles

If the upper poles of your breasts appear unusually round (which gives you the operated, fake look), don’t worry because weeks or months following your breast augmentation, the implants will settle to their natural position.

Some plastic surgeons recommend breast massage and compression exercise after the incision site is completely healed.  The theory is that massaging the breasts would allow the implants to settle naturally, and prevent the scar tissue around the devices to become too tight and dense.

In addition, it is not uncommon for the augmented breasts to be quite firm and sit high up on your chest.  In general, they will soften up and drop to a more natural position.

Your plastic surgeon may recommend strap or elastic bandage wrapped around the upper chest, under the arms, before reaching the top half of the breasts; in this way, the implants will go down.

* One breast sits higher on your chest

The breast implant on your dominant side (right- vs left-handed) may not drop as fast as the other one, leading to asymmetrical appearance.  If this happens, don’t worry since both implants will settle properly weeks or months after your breast augmentation surgery. 

*  Oversensitive nipples

More often than not, oversensitive nipple (right after breast augmentation) is associated with some “erection” which further aggravates the sensitivity.  For this reason, don’t be surprised if your plastic surgeon recommends using Band-Aid (especially if you have large ones) or nursing pads that will protect the area from the abrasiveness of your clothing.

* Numbness in the nipples

While some patients experience oversensitive nipples, others complain about numbness in the area, which is also something normal during the first few weeks or months following the surgery.

For most women, the sensation returns although the process often involves some itchiness, heat, tingling, and sometimes pains, which are all temporary. 

Knowing If Breast Implant Surgery Is Right for You

For the past couple of years, breast implant surgery has been the most sought-after aesthetic operation that in 2011 alone, about 307,000 procedures were performed, according to survey released by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

But despite the growing popularity of breast implant surgery, not all people who desire to increase their bust size and/or want to achieve a more prominent cleavage are good candidates for this procedure.

As with any cosmetic surgery, breast augmentation involves some risks, recovery, and of course money.  For these reasons, you should be able to answer these questions before you consult a plastic surgeon:

*  Do you have “healthy” motivations?

If you want to undergo a cosmetic surgery, bear in mind that your motivations should be based on your personal happiness.  But if you want this to please other people (your partner or colleagues), you would most likely end up dissatisfied since physical improvements do not automatically result to “better relationships.”

*  Do you have realistic goals and expectations?

If you have very small breasts (double A cup), desiring to achieve a full D cup is definitely over the top.  Take note that because you have limited breast tissue and fat, “inappropriately” large implants can lead not just to fake look but also to higher risk of wrinkling/rippling and bottoming out.

*  Do you have enough money?

Because breast augmentation is an elective procedure, don’t expect that your health insurance will cover the surgical expenses; this means you have to spend your own savings or seek loans.

Aside from the surgical costs, you should also consider the possibility of a revision breast augmentation, MRI screening (if you would choose silicone implants), and other expenses after your operation.

*  Are you physically healthy?

Your plastic surgeon will interview you and ask you to undergo laboratory examinations to determine if you are healthy and are not suffering from medical conditions that may compromise your recovery.

Be as honest as you can, particularly when your doctor asks you about your previous surgeries, medical conditions, allergies, and current medications.  Also, you should tell the truth if your surgeon raises the topic of smoking and drinking habits.

*  Are you emotionally stable?

If you are emotionally stable and fully understand and accept the ramifications of having breast implant surgery, you can proceed with the procedure as long as you meet the other requirements.  But if you’re suffering from depression and other psychological and emotional issues, talking to a therapist is way better than consulting a plastic surgeon.

Cohesive Breast Implants—Benefits and Disadvantages

In March 2012, the US Food and Drug Administration has approved the cohesive breast implants which use a form-stable gel; this means that unlike the 4^th generation silicone implants, they do not leak in case the shell cracks.

The cohesive silicone implants, also referred to as gummy bear implants due to their firm structure (just like the popular sweet candy), have benefits over the ordinary silicone- and saline-filled implants.  However, they also have shortcomings, which must be considered.

The Main Benefits of Cohesive Breast Implants

*  Less prone to shell collapse

Because the filler material is form-stable, it does not shift from one area of the shell to the other (which is the case in saline and traditional silicone implants).  For this reason, the folds and wrinkles—which are known to affect the device’s durability in the long run—do not occur.

It is safe to surmise that cohesive breast implants can last longer than the other types since they are not prone to folds and wrinkles.

*  Leak is almost not a concern

While the shell is susceptible to breakage, leak is not a problem since the filler material maintain its shape; however some microscopic diffusion of silicone will always occur, but some experts believe that it will be somewhat harmless.

*  Lower risk of capsular contracture

Some studies—while not as extensive as they should be—conducted in Europe suggest that capsular contracture occurs less often with cohesive breast implants.

Capsular contracture happens when a layer of scar tissue becomes too dense and thick that it squeezes the implant.  Some experts say the implant’s cohesiveness, firmness, and/or less diffusion of silicone (than traditional silicone implants) are the reasons why there is a lower risk.

The Disadvantages of Cohesive Breast Implants

*  They only come in teardrop shape

Because the cohesive breast implant is form-stable, it does not come in round version and is only available in teardrop shape, which has more volume at the bottom than the top.

By contrast, ordinary silicone and saline implants are available in round shape because their filler material is affected by the gravity and forces of the breasts.

While teardrop implants provide natural results, some women still prefer the round version which can give them the dome-shaped breast in which there is an exaggerated fullness in the upper poles.  

*  Feel

The cohesive breast implants do feel a little bit firmer than the traditional silicone implants, although the level would depend on how much breast tissue a patient has, how supple or flaccid the tissue is, and how large or small the implant is.

However, most patients—particularly those who would choose implants with an “appropriate” size—do not have problem with the firmness of cohesive breast implants.

*  Cohesive implants require longer incisions

Because the filler material is form-stable, these implants need longer incisions (between 4.5-5.5cm) to squeeze through inside the breast pocket.  For this reason, plastic surgeons rarely recommend the areola incision site when using this type of implant.

Armpit incision is also difficult when using cohesive breast implants, which is why doctors prefer the breast crease technique.

*  Risk of rotation

With the teardrop shape of the cohesive implants, rotation can result to deformity.  Fortunately, this can be prevented with the right pocket dissection and insertion.

But still, rotation is more of a problem for patients wanting to replace their teardrop breast implants with smaller ones.  Meanwhile, round implants do not result to distortion even if they rotate inside the pocket because their sides are all symmetrical.

*  More expensive

As with most new technologies, cohesive breast implants are hundreds of dollars more expensive than older designs. 

Saline Breast Implants—Overfilling Vs Underfilling

Saline breast implants are filled with a sterile mixture of salt and water while their shell is made of solid silicone that is durable.  However, there is no guaranty that the device can last a lifetime because it is still subjected to the natural wear and tear; for this reason, there is always the possibility of needing a revision surgery at some point in a patient’s life.

One advantage of saline implants over silicone version is that in case of a leak, they will not lead to inflammation of the tissue although patients have to remember that the affected breast will appear deflated right after the rupture.  To correct this problem, the implant must be replaced with a new one during a revision breast augmentation.

However, saline implant has its shortfall; because of its watery consistency, it is prone to sloshing effect, which is attributed to the higher risk of downward displacement. 

One way to prevent the sloshing effect is to overfill the implants with a saline that is more than the amount recommended by the manufacturer.  Patients should remember that overfilling the implants does not lead to a bigger size but only firmer appearance.

For instance, implant manufacturer Mentor recommends its device to be filled with a maximum amount of 300 cubic centimeter or cc, but a plastic surgeon inflates it with 325cc.  Aside from making the implant firmer, the technique has also been said to reduce the sloshing effect.

Another probable advantage of overfilling saline implants is that the need for a revision breast augmentation can be postponed.  Because saline has a natural deflation rate of 1 percent every year, putting content more than the recommended amount of the manufacturer may help prolong the “viable volume” of the implant.

But one downside of overfilling saline implants is that it gives manufacturers the right to cancel the warranty of their products.  However, it does not mean that they will automatically void it, but the technique gives them that option.

While overfilling saline implant is a common practice, underfilling its shell is not since it can lead to a wide range of problems including higher risk of rippling and implant failure; this is because the constant “rubbing” of the folds can affect the integrity of the device.

Another common problem with underfilled saline implants is the visible ripple, which is more of a concern if the breast tissue and fat is limited.

Breastfeeding with Implants 101

Many women with breast implants wonder if they can still breastfeed their babies or not.  Patients should always bear in mind that breast augmentation may somewhat affect the sensation of the nipple, although the devices do not automatically prevent mothers to produce natural milk.

Majority of women with breast implants are able to breastfeed successfully, despite some rumors that the devices can prevent them to do so.  There are also some misconceptions that these can contaminate the milk, potentially harming the baby; in fact, studies have suggested that formula milk contains significantly higher amounts of silicone than the milk produced by breast augmentation patients.

Meanwhile, small amounts of silicone are naturally present in mother’s milk.

According to a recent study, most breast augmentation patients who were unable to breastfeed were concerned that doing so may lead to sagging; this means the “inability to breastfeed” is really not the issue but more likely their “unwillingness.”

But contrary to popular belief, breastfeeding does not cause sagging as pregnancy alone is the culprit.  And the more pregnancies a patient will experience, the more likely her breast tissue and ligament will droop.

Breast implant itself does not cause compromised ability to breastfeed.  Most plastic surgeons believe that the incision site (e.g., within the breast crease, around the areola, and inside the armpit) is the factor that primarily affects the sensation of nipple after surgery.

For women who are considering breast augmentation but are planning to have a baby in the future, the best thing is to avoid the peri-areolar incision in which a U-shaped cut is made within the dark pigmented part of skin.  During the technique, there is a higher chance that the nerves are severed, thereby affecting the sensation.

Patients should remember that loss of sensation in the nipple makes it difficult to breastfeed.

However, several studies have suggested that years after breast augmentation surgery, most of the severed nerves can repair themselves, a process called reinnervation.  This clearly shows the remarkable ability of the body to heal itself.

For women with breast implants, they often have a better chance to successfully breastfeed if longer time has transpired since their surgery.  In fact, one study has suggested that five years after the procedure, most of the nerves that were damaged during the incision have already reconnected and have been repaired by the body.

Nevertheless, many doctors believe that inserting breastimplants on the side or underneath the breast will cause the least amount of damage to the nerve endings and milk ducts. 

Breast Enhancement Surgery

Nowadays, breast enhancement surgery comes in many forms including breast augmentation, mastopexy (raising the sagging bust), and reduction mammaplasty (decreasing its size).  And while each kind uses different techniques, their goal is the same: to improve the appearance of the bosom.

In 2011, breast augmentation was the most popular cosmetic surgery in the US, with about 307,000 procedures performed during the period.  Currently, the Food and Drug Administration has only approved saline and silicone breast implants for this surgery.

As its name suggests, breast augmentation is traditionally used to increase the bust, but with the introduction of new implant designs, it has become possible to use the procedure in creating a more prominent cleavage, and address certain types of breast deformity such as pigeon chest.

In some cases, breast implants are used to reconstruct the breasts after mastectomy or cancer surgery, although they can only be helpful if there is an ample amount of tissue left.  By using the devices, women can avoid unfavorable scarring associated with tissue-based breast reconstruction, and weakening of the donor site (e.g., buttocks, abdomen, back).

Another type of breast enhancement surgery is mastopexy in which the sagging breasts are raised to make them appear more appealing and youthful.  Contrary to popular belief, the procedure is not only popular among aging women but also on massive weight loss patients who often develop sagging, elongated breasts.

For some, mastopexy involves reducing the size of areola (pigmented part of skin surrounding the nipple) to complement the “perky” and youthful appearance of the breasts.  Doing this additional procedure does not necessarily mean more scars because doctors simply use the peri-areola incision.

While mastopexy can lift the sagging breasts, patients should take note that it cannot create volume especially in the upper and medial cleavage.  For this reason, many plastic surgeons suggest breast implants as a way to further enhance the appearance of the bosom, resulting to a prominent cleavage.

Brest reduction is another type of breast enhancement surgery, although women with medical problems caused by extremely large bust size will more likely see this as a reconstructive procedure.  If performed as a way to improve body function and address discomfort, insurance reimbursement is possible.

By contrast, breast reduction which is performed purely to enhance one’s appearance is not covered by insurance, as with any cosmetic surgeries.  In fact, most insurance companies require at least 300 grams of fats and tissue to be removed from each breast before the procedure is considered reconstructive. 

Botox for Faster Recovery After Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation surgery involves pain and discomfort during recovery.  However, plastic surgeons have come up with different techniques to shorten the healing time and reduce soreness and other postoperative symptoms.

One possible way to shorten the recovery is Botox injection; plastic surgeons use this treatment “off-label” to encourage the pec muscle to relax and allow the high-riding breast implants to settle downward quicker.

“Off-label” means using a treatment or drug beyond its real purpose.  For instance, Botox has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration to remove certain types of facial wrinkles and address muscle spasm, although some doctors use it to encourage the implants to settle quicker into their natural position. 

After breast augmentation surgery, it is normal for the implants to appear unusually high off the chest wall.  This appearance generally lasts two months, although some women have to wait for as long as four months, as it takes time for the implants to drop and settle to a more natural place.

By relaxing the chest muscle, advocates of Botox believe the treatment can also speed up the recovery of patients.  And because the muscle is partially paralyzed, they also claim that there is less spasm and pain.

Crampy spasm following breast implants surgery commonly lasts several weeks or even months for some patients.

However, patients should realize that not all doctors recommend Botox injection to shorten the recovery after breast augmentation.  This is because other postoperative procedures have also been proven effective in minimizing pain and discomfort, and encouraging quicker healing.

For instance, some doctors recommend breast massage with compression exercise which can lead to faster recovery and encourage the implants to settle more naturally.  But when doing the procedure, patients should do this carefully and should avoid pinching the shell as it may affect the stability of the device.

Film School in China Bans Students Who Had Plastic Surgery

With the growing popularity of plastic surgery in China, a film school has made it clear that anyone who alters his or her appearance will likely be disqualified from the entrance examination.  Officials from the illustrious performance institute of Beijing Film Academy said that “changes in the faces and other body parts might affect the acting of students.”

Even students with tattoos may be disqualified from entrance examination.

Surprisingly, many people think the decision to ban those who had plastic surgery is “fair,” arguing that actors who had “surgical enhancements” are somewhat cheating.

Some people even say that plastic surgery is a fraud.

However, what they fail to realize is that plastic surgery is not all about looking better than others.  For some people, this may be their only way to live a normal life, improve body functions, and repair deformities caused by illness and accidents.  Does it mean individuals who had reconstructive plastic surgery are also banned from the film school?

One student’s parent even said that she agrees with the plastic surgery ban because “what matters is the performance and acting, not how a person looks.”  With this argument, what is the point of excluding those who had “cosmetic enhancements” when their talent is the most important thing rather than their appearance? 

And not to mention the freedom of choice.  The choice to undergo “surgically-assisted beautification.”

Another potential loophole is that how on earth the film school’s officials can determine if someone had surgical enhancements or not?  What kind of criteria they are going to use?  Perhaps it would be too tedious to conduct background check for the sole purpose of determining if a student had plastic surgery or not.

Currently, eyelid surgery is one of the most common cosmetic plastic surgeries in China.  And with 94 percent of the population consisting of Han people who usually lack a prominent eye crease, individuals with this feature may end up being accused of having “surgical enhancements” even if they did not.

The issues surrounding plastic surgery are somewhat analogous to guns.  Guns are neither bad nor good as the situation depends on who will use them.  The same thing is true in cosmetic surgical enhancements. 

But perhaps the plastic surgery ban imposed by the prestigious film school has its own merits.  According to the country’s health ministry, about 70 to 80 percent of those who seek cosmetic surgical enhancements are high school and college students who are too young to understand the ramifications of their decision.

Also, another concern is that teenagers are not yet physically mature to undergo cosmetic plastic surgery.

Breast Augmentation to Treat Hypoplasia

Contrary to popular belief, breast augmentation surgery is not only used to improve the figure; for some women, this procedure is needed to address deformities such as hypoplasia in which one or both breasts never mature properly.

Many women with this condition suffer from emotional pain because the breasts have always been associated with femininity and sensuality.  Fortunately though, most cases can be corrected by breast implant surgery; and because it is performed as a reconstructive procedure, insurance reimbursement is often possible. 

There are many factors which can lead to breast hypoplasia including hormone abnormalities.  If this is the problem, hormone therapy might resolve the condition and allow the breast tissue to develop normally. 

Hypoplasia can also be the result of systemic disorders, which must be addressed immediately while the patient is still young to increase the success rate of the treatment.  And for some, the problem may have originated from the damaged or injured undeveloped breast bud.

In some cases, underdeveloped breasts are caused by anorexia.  By simply addressing this underlying problem, most patients can develop normal breasts right after they regain their normal weight.

As much as possible, doctors treat the underlying problem before they even consider breast augmentation surgery.  However, there are cases in which the patients show no particular reason why their breasts never developed normally; in general, these women are good candidates for plastic surgery.

But even if the underlying problem has been resolved, some patients with hypoplasia will not be able to form a normal breast unless they will undergo breast augmentation.  This is because the delicate breast bud, once damaged at an early age, may never recover and lead to underdeveloped bosom. 

Patients with breast hypoplasia have a chest with a juvenile appearance.  And because of lack of anatomical maturity, the condition will often affect the breastfeeding, although some women have normal or limited mammary function.    

While breast augmentation surgery can correct the aesthetic problem caused by hypoplasia, it cannot help women who have no breastfeeding ability and those who lack sensory responses in their breasts.  But at least the look and feel of their breasts will be normal, helping them to overcome emotional and psychological issues caused by aesthetically immature breasts.  

Because hypoplasia patients lack breast tissue, silicone breast implant is more ideal than the saline version because it can mimic the feel and look of natural breasts.  In addition, choosing this type of implant can reduce the risk of palpable and visible rippling.

Effects of Saline Breast Implants Depend on the Amount of Tissue

As its name suggests, saline breast implant is filled with sterile saltwater; for this reason it provides a less favorable cosmetic outcome for women with little breast tissue and fat.  By contrast, patients with an ample amount of tissue will usually enjoy a more natural result because of the “thicker coverage.”

The reason why women with almost no breast tissue will have unnatural result with saline implants is that there is little coverage.  In fact, the implants will be easily felt through the skin, regardless if these are positioned under or over the muscle, particularly in the lateral side and bottom of the breasts.

And instead of having a teardrop-shaped breast, it would end up being unnaturally round.  So for women with little amount of tissue, silicone breast implants, which are filled with a cohesive gel that mimics the feel of glandular tissue and fat, are the best options for them. 

(However, using teardrop-shaped implants, which are always available in textured surface to prevent them from flipping over, are not advisable for women with a very small breast because of the higher risk of rippling.)

Another concern of using saline implants on women with limited breast tissue is the higher risk of rippling and wrinkling of the shell, which is caused by “lack of coverage.”  This problem may be even aggravated with the use of textured implants with large “graininess.”

On the other hand, patients with moderate to significant amount of glandular tissue—particularly those with firm breasts—will likely enjoy a more natural result with saline implants.  In fact, regardless of the type of implants they would use, it is easier for them to achieve a favorable cosmetic result.

But despite having more amounts of tissue and fat, women should still limit themselves from using large saline implants (filled with more than 500 cubic centimeter or cc) because it can lead to a higher risk of downward displacement than silicone implants with the same size.

Meanwhile, women with a modest amount of tissue will achieve a result somewhere in-between.  They will most likely feel the implant shell through their skin with saline implants, although the shape of their breasts will appear natural as if they have used the silicone version. 

In general, silicone breast implants are still the best option for these patients to achieve a more natural feel.  (When plastic surgeons mention the word “feel,” they are talking about the sensation of the breast as it is being touched by fingers.)

FAQs About Breast Implant Surgery

1.     Question: What kind of implants is used during breast augmentation?

Answer:  Currently, the US Food and Drug Administration only allows silicone- and saline-filled breast implants.  However, there is some speculation that the gummy bear implants (these are filled with a more cohesive type of silicone gel) which are under clinical trial, will be made available to the public in the next few years.

2.     Q:  Which can provide a more natural result?

A: Siliconeimplants are designed to mimic the feel of breast tissue, making them a more popular choice of women these days.

3.     Q:  Any benefits in choosing saline implants over silicone version?

A: Yes.  Patients are not required to undergo MRI screening, a test necessary for those with silicone implants because they are at risk of having silent leak (no visible manifestation that the shell has already ruptured),And in case of rupture, patients with saline implants can immediately see the problem because their breasts will become deflated within hours.

4.     Q:  What is capsular contracture?

A:  This happens when the scar tissue—which naturally forms around any implant—becomes extraordinarily dense that it ends up squeezing the implants.  Fortunately, there are many surgical techniques and post-operative treatments that can minimize the risk of capsular contracture.

5.     Q:  What is the difference between smooth and textured implants?

A:  Smooth implants have a balloon-like surface while textured implants have a rough, somewhat “grainy” exterior.

All teardrop-shaped (or anatomical) implants come in textured surface to prevent it from rotating inside the breast pocket, something which may lead to visible distortion.  On the other hand, round implants often come with smooth exterior because they can rotate without causing any problem.

However, some round implants have rough surface which is said to minimize the risk of capsular contracture.  But this claim has not yet been proven.

6.     Q:  Which can provide more natural breast contour, round or teardrop implants?

A:  Both implants can provide natural appearance as long as with the proper placement.  And contrary to popular belief, round implants do not automatically lead to a dome-shaped, unnatural-looking breast because their shape turn into a teardrop once inside the breast pocket (due to the pull of gravity).

      7.  Q:  How long do breast implants last?

A:  According to a study conducted by the Institute of Medicine, breast implants last an average of 16 years, although their lifespan still depends on many factors such as the patient’s lifestyle, certain features of the body, and type of implant used during the procedure.

Breastfeeding After Augmentation Mammaplasty

One of the most common concerns of patients considering breast augmentation is its effect on breastfeeding.  However, many studies have suggested the surgery does not prevent women from producing milk.

Is It Possible to Breastfeed After Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation patients will most likely be able to breastfeed their babies following the surgery, particularly if the incision is made along the breast crease and armpit.  However, a U-shaped incision around the edge of areola may increase the risk of having breastfeeding problems because the technique causes more trauma to the glands, nerves, and ducts.

Can Silicone Implants Contaminate the Milk?

Breast implants do not pose contamination risk to babies; in fact, the milk produced by a woman with siliconeimplants has a significantly less amount of silicone than formula milk.

Potential Problem

Patients should know that breast augmentation does not prevent them from producing milk, although there is a risk of having less sensitive nipples, which in turn may lead to difficulty in breastfeeding.  Fortunately, a study has suggested that five years after breast surgery, most of the damaged nerves have already been repaired by the body, significantly improving the ability to breastfeed.

Why Some Patients Can’t Nurse Their Babies

It’s not about inability to breastfeed, but more on the unwillingness of some women to nurse their babies.  According to a recent study conducted by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), women with breast implants who think that breastfeeding can lead to sagging breasts are less likely to do this successfully.

However, the ASPS said that breastfeeding does not affect the result of breast implant surgery and even highlighted the significant health advantages for both baby and mother.

Solution for Those Experiencing Difficulty in Breastfeeding

Women with breast implants should tell her child’s pediatrician about the surgery; in this way, the doctor can keep a close eye on the baby’s weight and make sure he or she is getting enough milk.

But for patients who had breast augmentation to address hypoplasia or underdeveloped breasts, they may experience trouble producing enough milk.  For these mothers, they are often advised to use pump after each nursing session to stimulate production.  But if this is not enough, they should use formula milk or donor milk.

Should Breast Augmentation Be Postponed?

Some plastic surgeons recommend postponing breast implant surgery for women who are considering having babies since pregnancy may change the appearance of their breasts.

Liposuction for Breast Reduction

Liposuction surgery is often used to remove the fats in the abdominal area, however, what many people don’t know is that the procedure can also serve as a replacement for traditional breast reduction.  When given to the right patient, it can reduce the size of female breasts by more than 50 percent.

In many cases, liposuction can also have a slight to moderate lifting effect because it can remove the weight of the excess fats.

Compared to the traditional breast reduction in which the excess fats, glandular tissue, and skin are removed, liposuction is less invasive; in fact, most patients can resume to most of their daily activities two to three days after the procedure.

But perhaps the most notable advantage of liposuction over traditional breast reduction surgery is that the risk of scar is almost eliminated.  This is possible because plastic surgeons only use a few small round incisions where they insert a pen-like device that suctions out the fats.

Some women achieve better results than others after breast reduction via liposuction, especially those whose breast enlargement is primarily caused by excess fats rather than tissue.  Many doctors have noticed that patients who have passed through their menopause tend to have more glandular fats than teenagers, making them a great candidate for this procedure.

However, younger women may also enjoy the benefits of breast reduction via liposuction as long as the excess fat is one of the contributing factors of their breast enlargement.  To determine the amount of glandular fats, most doctors require their patients to undergo mammogram.

But still, not all women with exceedingly large breasts are a good candidate for liposuction.  Those with macromastia—a condition in which the breasts are extremely big due to abnormal development of the glandular tissue—will likely need the excision-based breast reduction surgery.

Thin women with excessively large breasts often have more glandular tissue and little fats, making them a bad candidate for liposuction.  For these patients, only the excision-based breast reduction can provide them good results.

After liposuction, the result is a smaller version of the breasts; however, patients should remember that the procedure cannot change the shape of the bosom. 

In many cases, it can also create a slight to moderate lifting effect because the weight of the excess fats is remove, though patients should remember that the final result also depends on the elasticity of their breast’s suspensory ligaments.

Because there is only minimal trauma to the glands and nerve, there is little chance that breast reduction via liposuction will affect breastfeeding.

Round Breast Implant and Its Benefits

In terms of shape, breast implants are available in two kinds: round and anatomical (or sometimes referred to as teardrop).  Patients should remember that the implant’s contour has a significant impact on the final result of their breast augmentation surgery.

To date, round implants are more commonly used than the anatomical versions because they come cheaper and are believed to last longer.  But still, the best option largely depends on the patients’ goals and expectations and certain features of the body.

However, anatomical implants are still popularly used on women who had mastectomy or cancer surgery, though plastic surgeons have started using them for cosmetic breast augmentation after realizing that they provide great aesthetic results.

But nowadays, round implants are more preferred by many doctors because they have a lower risk of implant wrinkling since they often come in smooth surface, which cannot pull the tissue.  By contrast, teardrop implants are always available in textured exterior because they are not supposed to rotate inside the breast pocket.

The anatomical implant’s textured surface will prevent it to flip over, which if occurs can lead to visible distortion.  But studies have suggested that this particular design can lead to higher risk of visible rippling, especially for implants that have large “graininess.”

The risk of visible and palpable rippling is particularly a concern for women with limited fat and tissue on their breasts.  For this reason, most plastic surgeons do not recommend teardrop implants for patients with little tissue coverage.

While round implant has all its sides equal, it does not mean the result is always a dome-shaped breast that looks unnatural.  Contrary to popular belief, its shape can still lead to natural appearance with a proper implant placement.

In fact, round implants can turn into a teardrop shape if held on one side and left suspended.

Another advantage of round implant over teardrop is that it comes at a lower price.  In addition, several studies suggested that it often lasts longer particularly those with smooth surface.

Because round smooth implants do not pull the tissue, they are less likely to wrinkle—one of the factors that can weaken the implant shell.

Also, patients who will choose round implants can either use saline (salt and water solution) or silicone filler.  By contrast, anatomical implants are only filled with saline because a cohesive gel like the silicone cannot be used.

Currently, silicone-filled implants are more popular than saline version because they provide a more natural result; this is not surprising because silicone gel is designed to mimic the suppleness of the breast tissue.

                                                  

Thinking of Breast Augmentation Surgery?

Breast augmentation has been one of the most sought-after cosmetic procedures in 2010.  During this period alone, about 296,000 US patients had the surgery, with the number expected to grow in the next few years.

If you are thinking of having breast augmentation surgery, these are the most common questions of patients you may also have in mind:

·         Is the safety of breast implants monitored by the FDA?

Both saline and siliconebreast implants are considered safe both for breast augmentation and reconstruction following cancer surgery.  Currently, the FDA only allows Mentor and Allergan-Mentor to sell their products in the country.

·         What is the advantage of saline breast implants over the silicone version?

Saline implants require smaller incisions because they are only filled once they are inside the breast pocket.  Take note that no FDA-approved prefilled saline implants are sold in the US.  Another advantage is that you are no longer required to undergo regular MRI screening because there is no risk of “silent leak.”

·         Which is more popular nowadays, silicone or saline implants?

Most doctors believe that silicone implants are more popular these days because they can simulate the natural feel of tissue unlike the saline version which is typically described as like having a water-balloon inside the breast.

But because a leak may not have any manifestation (e.g., deflated-looking breasts), it is recommended that you undergo MRI screening at least every two years.

·         Is there any option other than saline and silicone implants?

A new breast implant called “gummy bear” implant is used in Europe, though it is not yet available in the US market, unless you will enroll in nationwide clinical trials to test the product’s effectiveness and safety.

Gummy bear implant uses the silicone gel that is more cohesive than the one used by the currently available silicone implant.

·         Do patients need revisions in the future?

Because breast implants are not guaranteed to last a lifetime, you will likely need revision breast augmentation at some point in your life.  This is because the devices are still subjected to the natural wear and tear which can lead to rupture and leak.

What Is the Most Ideal Age to Have Breast Augmentation Surgery?

Breast augmentation is one of the most sought-after cosmetic surgeries not just in the US but also in many countries.  In fact, it has been estimated that 5 to 10 million people have the procedure; they consisted of women who wanted to improve their appearance, post-cancer patients who had mastectomy, and transgender.

To date, many countries including the US require patients to be at least 18 years old before they can undergo breast implant surgery.  But take note that this age requirement generally applies if you will have the procedure solely for cosmetic purpose—e.g., you want to increase your bust size.

By contrast, age requirement is not important if you will have the procedure as a way to treat developmental abnormalities.

You have to remember that patients between 18 and 21 can only have saline implants which are filled with a sterile saltwater solution.  But when you reach the age of 22, you would be allowed to use silicone implants during your breast augmentation surgery.

The main reason why silicone implants require a higher age limit is because of the risk of rupture.  To prevent serious complications, you will be required to undergo MRI screening at least every two years.  By contrast, you will not need this if your implants are filled with saline, which in case of a leak, can be safely absorbed by your body, though your breasts will immediately appear somewhat “flat.”

While 18 years old can already have breast augmentation, many plastic surgeons believe that a woman should wait until she has reached her twenties because there is a likelihood that her breasts will further enlarge.

Imagine that if your breasts become larger after having plastic surgery, you may end up with a bust size bigger than what you really want.  While you can always have revisions to downsize your implants or even remove them without replacement, this means additional expenses and possibly more scarring.

If you decide to have breast augmentation in your teenage years, you will likely need revisions sooner than later.  Take note that breast implants are not designed to last a lifetime and are subjected to the natural wear and tear.

According to a data collected by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 65 percent of breast implant surgeries were performed on patients aged between 20 and 38, a clear indication that most women waited until their body has fully matured before they had the procedure.

Teen Mom Farrah Abraham Proud to Be on Best Cosmetic Surgery List

It is not uncommon for celebrities to deny having plastic surgery even if the result is blatant or sometimes to the point of looking “fake.”  However, this is not the case of Farrah Abraham who is proud to make it on UsWeekly’s 2011 list of best cosmetic surgery.

The celebrity mom, who was featured in MTV’s reality show 16 and Pregnant, tweeted: “Thank you USWeekyly for including me on 2011 BEST: Plastic surgeries.”

After giving birth, Abraham underwent breast augmentation surgery to increase her bust size from cup size A to C.  Despite criticism for having the procedure at a relatively young age, she said that she is happy with her decision.

Los Angeles leading plastic surgeon Dr. Tarick Smaili, who did not treat Abraham, said that she is a good example of natural-looking breasts after plastic surgery.

“The good thing about her breast implant size is that it complements her body and perfectly fits her small frame.  She did not go overboard as some celebrities have done in the past by using large implants that often result to the heavy top look,” Smaili said.

During the 1990s, the cosmetic surgeon said the trend in breast augmentation was the “bigger the better,” despite the unnatural look it gave to some patients, particularly those with small frame.

But nowadays, Smaili said that he is seeing more patients asking for revisions to “downsize their breast implant and achieve a more natural look.”

“I think the trend today is the natural bust size.  Just enough volume especially in the upper poles of the breasts to create more cleavage.  People should know that not all patients who ask for breast augmentation solely want to enlarge their breasts; in fact, a significant number of my patients just want to regain the lost volume caused by pregnancy,” Smaili said.

The cosmetic surgeon added that 300 to 350 cubic centimeter (cc) of breast implant size is often enough to create the natural look, although he warned that factors such as waistline, chest width, natural fat and tissue, and overall body frame should also be considered when deciding for the “right” implant size.

Citing Abraham’s breast augmentation, Smaili lauded her decision to stick “to a realistic size considering her small frame and thin arms.”

“Patients like her are easy to work with.  They know their body and consider its limitation.  While we always remind our patients that going for extremely large implants have many disadvantages, there are some who are still persistent about this.  But any self-respecting and ethical surgeons would have to turn these women down because we should not push the body’s limit—that’s my rule,” Smaili said.