How Can I Tell If I Need Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation surgery in Pasadena, CA is generally considered an elective procedure, meaning women may want – but not necessarily need – breast implants. However, there are still several signs and scenarios that may mean a breast augmentation could be beneficial and appropriate for you. Use the helpful information below from board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgical specialist Dr. Omar Ahmed and the team at Omar Ahmed, M.D. to better understand when it may be the right time to consider breast augmentation surgery and what options you have to choose from.

What is breast augmentation?

Breast augmentation refers to the surgical addition of volume to a woman’s breast, though breast augmentation surgery can also help to address additional concerns, such as breast asymmetry or an unnatural breast shape.

Do I need breast augmentation?

Again, breast augmentation is an elective procedure performed primarily for cosmetic reasons, but there are several other benefits of getting breast implants as well. For example, patients who have had a mastectomy due to breast cancer may be self-conscious or even depressed about their new look. With breast augmentation surgery, these women can once again feel feminine, confident, and whole. Some of the most common reasons why breast augmentation may be an appropriate choice for a woman include:

• Lost breast volume after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss
• Naturally small breasts (flat-chested)
• Asymmetric breasts
• Flat breast shape
• Previous breast cancer surgery
• Low self-esteem related to size or shape of breasts
• Desire a more feminine shape
• Want to fill out clothing better

What are my options for breast augmentation?

The majority of breast augmentation surgeries are performed using either saline or silicone gel implants. The choice between these two types of breast implant will depend on a number of personal factors, including the patient’s age, how much native breast tissue she has, her desired outcome, and others. Generally speaking, silicone gel implants are ideal for patients with thinner skin – as they are less prone to visible rippling compared with saline implants – as well as those women who prefer a more natural look and feel to their implants. However, silicone gel implants are reserved for use in women 22 years of age and older, meaning younger women will need to have saline implants placed and then, if desired, replace them with silicone gel implants at a later date.

For women who are interested in a more natural alternative to breast implants, Dr. Ahmed may recommend a fat transfer to the breast. This third option for breast augmentation surgery involves removing excess fat from another area of the patient’s body – like the abdomen, thighs, or lower back – and injecting it into the breasts to add volume and enhance the overall breast shape.

While it may seem like your choices for breast augmentation are overwhelming, you aren’t in this alone. During your initial consultation, Dr. Ahmed and our knowledgeable patient care team will review all of your options at length, discuss your aesthetic goals, and help you determine which breast augmentation approach may be most fitting for you.

Thinking about breast implants in Pasadena, CA? Now may be the right time

Breast implants can benefit adult women at virtually any age, though certain situational factors may make cosmetic surgery more appropriate at one time versus another. Learn more about what things you should consider when choosing the best time for breast augmentation surgery by calling Omar Ahmed, M.D. today to schedule your one-on-one consultation with top Pasadena, CA board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgical specialist Dr. Omar Ahmed.