Learn the Difference Between Breast Augmentation and Breast Implants
Breast augmentation and breast implants may sound the same thing, but they are a little different
Definition of breast augmentation in Toronto
In the world of cosmetic surgery, the interchangeable use of some terms can be confusing. Here we’ll explain the specific meanings of the terms used in breast enhancement surgery so that you can research and plan your procedure without concerns. Depending on the surgeon you choose, you may have more than one option to enlarge the breasts. Breast augmentation means surgical enlargement of the breasts, but methods vary. One option which is still somewhat uncommon is the fat grafting technique. Using fat stem cells taken from a person’s own body, a surgeon can inject the breasts and uniformly place fat throughout the glandular tissue to enlarge and reshape the breasts. Fat grafting is still under evaluation for long-term health implications including effects on breast cancer development and breast imaging.
The nature of the fat transfer process means that only subtle results can be achieved with size increases of roughly ½ to one bra cup. For many people, the effort, cost,andassociated risks aren’t worth the result. The more common approach to permanent, surgical breast enlargement is through the implantation of a device. In this way, you can understand that breast implants are under the umbrella of the term, breast augmentation.
Definition of breast implants
Breast augmentation is typically done with breast implants. These are the medical devices used to enlarge the breasts. There are a few approved types that are used by certified plastic and cosmetic surgeons in Canada These include saline, cohesive silicone gel, anatomical, “gummy bear” implants, and Ideal implants which are the newest to the market.
How are breast implants placed?
Commonly referred to as a “BA,” the procedure is aided by the use of an anesthetic. A local anesthetic which temporarily numbs the tissue is combined with IV sedation, making a person drowsy and sedated. It is common to perform breast augmentation with a general anesthetic which puts the patient completely to sleep throughout the process. The implant will be inserted through a small incision ranging from 2-4cm long. Saline implants are filled with sterile saline only after they are placed in the body, so a very small incision can be used to insert them. Conversely, silicone gel implants are pre-filled and require a slightly larger opening, but these are still well-hidden in locations like the under-breast crease or outer edge of the areola. Implants will be positioned partly under the chest muscle and breast tissue, or under the breast tissue alone. They can be inserted with a breast lift procedure, otherwise known as a mastopexy, and this combination is known as an augmentation mastopexy.
Many people choose to undergo an augmentation either to enlarge their existing breasts or to reconstruct this feature after surgery or pregnancy changes. Breast reconstruction related to mastectomy will often involve the use of an implant to rebuild the shape and structure of breast tissue. There are multiple breast implant and breast augmentation options available to you.For help with your planning, consult with a Royal College certified plastic surgeon who specializes in this popular procedure.
