Size is often the first thing to consider when you’ve decided to get a breast augmentation. And rightfully so. If you’ve been uncomfortable with the size of your breasts for your whole adult life, the idea of changing your shape and feeling more comfortable in your own body is incredible.
But size is not the only factor to consider. There’s a whole host of options to consider and decisions to make when you’re thinking about breast implants, each with their own sets of pros and cons. Here are 4 of the major factors you’ll need to figure into your decision making for your own breast augmentation.
1. Eligibility
The first thing you need to figure into your breast implant decision is your eligibility. Before you begin to discuss size, breast implant type, surgical options or any of the other breast implant pros and cons, you’ll need to determine whether or not you’re a candidate for the surgery. Of course, you can’t do this alone. You need to schedule a consultation with a highly qualified surgeon to decide your eligibility.
The ideal candidate for a breast augmentation is in good general physical and mental health. You should be close to or at your ideal weight, physically active and a non-smoker. Your breasts, of course, should be fully developed. Aside from the physical, you should hold realistic expectations for what a breast augmentation can help you achieve. If you’re bothered by the size, shape or symmetry of your breasts, a breast augmentation could help you meet your goals.
2. Surgical Differences
The next item to consider on your list of breast implant pros and cons is the surgical differences between types of breast augmentation surgeries. Not all breast implant surgeries are created equal, and it’s important to review with your surgeon which implant options he or she recommends and which you feel the most comfortable with.
Your surgeon will discuss the different types of incisions with you and how each one could work on your body. He or she will also walk you through the different types of breast implants and the pros and cons of each one. Together you will determine the best course of action to help you meet your goals.
3. Aesthetics
Aesthetics is the most exciting part of a breast augmentation to consider. Aesthetics can include the size of your breast implants and their profile. The size of an implant is measured in cubic centimeters (ccs). And while it may be tempting to refer to cup size when you’re discussing your goals, don’t let yourself become too attached to a specific size.
Bringing photos that show the type of results you’re looking for can be helpful when deciding the overall aesthetics of your breast implants.
The profile of your breast implants is the distance they project from your chest and is another aesthetic factor to consider. This can be determined by the shape of the implant, whether it’s round or teardrop-shaped, and their texture.
4. Rupture
While aesthetics is the most fun factor of a breast augmentation to think about, rupture may be the least. Still, it’s vital to consider this as you’re weighing the pros and cons of breast surgery. A ruptured silicone implant can cause the shape or contour of your breast to change, but largely aren’t considered to be linked to issues like breast cancer, reproductive issues or rheumatoid arthritis, according to the Mayo Clinic. Still, it’s important to remember that ruptures can occur and that breast implants aren’t designed to last a lifetime. Speak to your cosmetic surgeon about what could happen in the event of a rupture and make sure, once you have your breast implants, to keep a close eye on any changes.
With all of the different options available, it’s important to consider all of the breast implant options pros and cons when you’re deciding on breast implants.
Dr. Joseph J. Castellano is a native Floridian who grew up in the Tampa Bay area. During medical school and his 5 years of training in General Surgery, Dr. Castellano developed a strong interest in Cosmetic Surgery. He followed his residency training with an elective year of specialized training with the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery. From 2010-2011, he completed a fellowship in Indiana focused entirely of cosmetic surgery of the face and body. During his fellowship, he received specialized training in facial rejuvenation, breast augmentation, abdominoplasty, and body contouring. Dr. Castellano received his board certification from the American College of Surgeons in 2010.
Dr. Castellano focuses on breast augmentation, abdominoplasty, liposuction, facelift, and eyelid rejuvenation. Additionally, he operates on numerous skin cancers, scar revisions, spider veins, and specializes in the management of aging skin with chemical peels and laser resurfacing.
Request a consultation to meet with Dr. Castellano and learn more about all his practice has to offer.
