When a patient decides to undergo a breast augmentation, they need to decide what the size of the augmentation and the type of augmentation.

The decision to perform a sub-muscular (under the muscle) or sub-glandular (under the breast tissue) augmentation is based on many factors. This may include a patient's preference and their unique anatomy.

Regardless of the type of breast augmentation performed by a surgeon, it will come with pros and cons. For some surgeons, they may prefer sub-muscular breast augmentations. This type of augmentation has less chance of a patient either seeing or feeling the breast implant.

Another benefit of sub-muscular augmentation is it decreases the risk of breast implant hardening (encapsulation or scar tissue formation). Sub-muscular breast augmentation interferes less with the performance of a mammography than a sub-glandular breast augmentation.

Patients who have their implants inserted underneath the muscle have also communicated a greater sense of comfort and natural feel. This is because when a patient feels their breasts, they are actually holding their own muscle, tissue, and glands, offering a very natural and comfortable look and feel. This can also help patients achieve their final cosmetic goals in a shorter period of time.

While evaluating the differences in breast augmentation surgical procedures, there tends to be a preference to perform the sub-muscular augmentation in the cosmetic surgery community. The end result for the patients will come with fewer complications and a better aesthetic. Both of these are always highly desired by patients.

Breast Sizes

After the decision to perform either a sub-muscular or sub-glandular breast augmentation has been settled, another important decision is the breast size that a patient desires. This is always a very personal decision.

Many times, the patient wants to achieve a €natural look€ to improve the proportionality of their upper and lower body. For some, they may want a €round€ appearance. When undergoing such a cosmetic procedure, it is possible to have much larger breasts and dress appropriately if it is important to not flaunt the fact that an augmentation was completed. It is helpful to share your goals and personality with your cosmetic surgeon. It is also advised to find a cosmetic surgeon who also takes the time to learn about your needs and goals.

Pictures of desired breast sizes from magazines can help open a dialogue between the patient and the surgeon. Often discussing €cup size€ is useful but should not be looked at as a universal standard for measurement or augmentation outcome. Cup size also is dependant on the manufacturer and can vary. Patients need to be aware of these differences and take them into account.

Ask many questions, understand the history and success of your cosmetic surgeon, and enjoy the exciting body transformation.