Understanding Different Types of Plastic Surgery Breast Procedures

Breast procedures have become increasing popular in recent years, with noticeable increases in breast augmentation, lifts, reductions and reconstruction. Patients opt for these procedures for a variety of reasons, from enhancing appearance and confidence to reconstructing breast tissue following a mastectomy. As each procedure has its own benefits and risks, it is important for patients to be well-informed about the options available to them and speak with their physician about realistic expectations.

 The most common breast procedures are:

Breast Augmentation: Enhancing Volume and Shape

Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, enhances the size and shape of the breasts. This procedure involves the insertion of implants beneath the breast tissue or chest muscles. The implants are typically filled with saline (salt-water-filled) or silicone (gel-filled). Candidates for breast augmentation are often individuals who wish to increase the volume of their breasts, achieve better symmetry between breasts or restore breast fullness after pregnancy or weight loss. The surgery is customizable, allowing patients to choose the size, shape and type of implant that best suits their desired outcome.

When discussing the process of a consultation for a breast augmentation, Adam N. Franklin, MD, a physician with Hattiesburg Clinic Plastic Surgery, emphasized the clinic’s approach: “We provide both saline and silicone gel breast implants for patients seeking breast enhancement.  During consultations, patients learn about the differences between implant types and brands before making their selection. Factors considered include complication profiles and subjective measures like feel and personal preference.” He also noted, “Generally, I believe silicone gel implants are the superior choice, but a consultation with a skilled surgeon is essential.”

Choosing the right type of implant is an important part of this procedure. Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water, providing a uniform shape. Silicone implants are filled with silicone gel, resembling the natural look and feel of breast tissue. Factors such as personal preference, desired outcome and the recommendations of the surgeon will influence the patient’s choice. Ultimately, the decision regarding which type of implant to use is entirely up to the patient. Each type has its own set of advantages and considerations, and a thorough discussion with the surgeon is essential to make an informed decision.

Breast Lift: Restoring Firmness and Contour

Breast lift surgery, or mastopexy, is aimed at lifting and reshaping breasts that have lost firmness and sagged over time. Aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding and significant weight loss can contribute to breast ptosis (drooping). Unlike breast augmentation, a breast lift doesn’t involve the use of implants. Instead, the surgeon repositions the existing breast tissue and removes excess skin to achieve a more youthful and uplifted appearance.

Ideal candidates for breast lift surgery are individuals with sagging breasts who desire a firmer and more aesthetically pleasing contour. This procedure can be combined with breast augmentation for those seeking both increased volume and a lifted appearance.

Breast Reconstruction: Restoring Confidence After Mastectomy

Breast reconstruction is a surgery for individuals who have undergone mastectomy, which is the removal of one or both breasts, often as a treatment for breast cancer. Reconstruction aims to restore the breasts’ appearance to help the patient regain a sense of normality and confidence following cancer treatment.

There are several approaches to breast reconstruction, including implants, autologous tissue (flap) reconstruction or a combination of both. The decision on the most suitable method depends on factors such as the patient’s health, body type, and personal preferences. Breast reconstruction is often performed in multiple stages as a collaboration between oncologists and plastic surgeons.

Before undergoing breast reconstruction surgery after a mastectomy, it is important to establish that the cancer has been eliminated. During the breast reconstruction consultation, discuss these following factors with the physician:

  • Overall health
  • Size of natural breast
  • Amount of tissue available for a flap procedure
  • Desired appearance and match to of the other breast
  • Desire for bilateral reconstructive surgery
  • Insurance coverage for unaffected breast and related costs
  • The type of cancer treatment, as well as choice of reconstructive procedure
  • The size of the implant or reconstructed breast

Breast Reduction: Alleviating Physical Discomfort

Breast reduction surgery, or reduction mammoplasty, is designed to reduce the size and weight of excessively large breasts. Those with disproportionately large breasts may experience physical discomfort, such as back pain, neck pain and skin irritation. A common objective of breast reduction surgery is to alleviate these symptoms while improving the overall appearance of the breasts.

During the procedure, excess breast tissue, fat and skin are removed, and the breasts are reshaped to achieve a more proportionate and lifted contour. “Patients who are interested in a breast reduction procedure often complain that they feel as though their body is out of proportion and they have trouble finding clothing that fits properly,” said Richard A. Pecunia, MD, FACS, a physician with Hattiesburg Clinic Plastic Surgery. “Patients who undergo the procedure often experience improved self-confidence, relief from discomfort, and enhanced satisfaction with their appearance and quality of life,” he added.

Gynecomastia Surgery: Restoring Confidence in Men

While breast surgery is often associated with women, gynecomastia surgery addresses a common condition in men. Gynecomastia, the enlargement of male breast tissue, is often attributed to hormonal imbalances resulting from a variety of factors including medications, puberty, aging, drug use, or tumors. Gynecomastia surgery, or male breast reduction, involves removing excess fat and glandular tissue to achieve a flatter and more masculine chest contour. As part of the discussion on gynecomastia treatment, Dr. Pecunia noted, “It is important to identify any underlying causes of hormone imbalance. In many cases, gynecomastia lacks a distinct cause, termed physiologic or idiopathic, making surgical correction most appropriate.” He continues, “The condition should be stable for surgical intervention, typically after one to two years, as spontaneous resolution is more common in adolescents. Surgical treatment involves removing enlarged breast tissue and excess skin, often through excision, liposuction, or a combination of both.” Candidates for gynecomastia surgery are men who are self-conscious or experience discomfort due to enlarged breasts. The procedure may involve liposuction, excision, or a combination of both, depending on the specific needs of the patient.

Why Choose Hattiesburg Clinic for your plastic surgery?

At Hattiesburg Clinic, our highly trained and knowledgeable plastic surgeons can help you make the best decision to achieve your goals. They can help you navigate the wide range of breast surgeries that cater to various aesthetic and medical needs. Our experienced physicians are committed to helping patients research their options. By exploring benefits, considerations, potential risks and establishing realistic expectations for each procedure, they help patients make informed decisions. Our health care professionals at Hattiesburg Clinic are dedicated to helping you achieve your desired outcomes.

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