Considering Your Options with Breast Augmentation

If you’ve made the decision to undergo breast augmentation, that’s great! You’re taking your first steps towards a new breast profile. However, before your consultation, there are some things you should consider in order to have a good idea of what results you expect and what your procedure will be like. You’ll likely discuss these options during your consultation with Dr. O’Brien, so here’s some information to get you started on asking good questions.

What type of implant do I want?

There are a few different types of implant that you’ll need to consider, and certain ones might be more ideal for your anatomy and expectations. The main two are saline (filled with sterilized salt water) and silicone (filled with silicone gel). Dr. O’Brien also offers “gummy bear” implants, which are silicone-filled but are firmer and more solid compared to the traditional silicone ones. Generally, saline implants offer increased safety and a more natural feel at the cost of an increased chance of rupture. Silicone implants offer the opposite, and “gummy bear” implants reduce the risk of the silicone material migrating to nearby tissues during a rupture.

How do I want my implants to be shaped?

Implants, regardless of the type, can be shaped differently to give a different overall look. Commonly, they are either teardrop-shaped or round. The teardrop implants can give a more natural look, while rounded can give greater projection. Consider your overall aesthetic goals, and Dr. O’Brien can guide you to the right implant shape.

Which incision is best for me?

This option is something best discussed with Dr. O’Brien, but there are a few incision options to consider. This can also partly depend on the implant you choose, since saline implants generally require smaller incisions. The most common types of incisions are under the breasts, around the areola, and within the armpit. Although skilled plastic surgeons can carefully hide scarring within the natural folds of the body, there’s always a chance of visibility, so you’ll need to weigh your options.

Where do I want the implants?

This might seem like an obvious question, but implants can either be placed on top of the chest muscle or underneath it. The former option gives greater projection, while the latter gives a more natural feel— however, it might require a longer downtime afterward.

To schedule your breast augmentation consultation with Dr. O’Brien, contact our office in St. Petersburg. Also, read more about our breast augmentation procedures here.