The female breast is part of a woman’s identity, and it is important for every woman to have the appearance she desires. A plastic surgery procedure is a medical act that can provide her with the result she wants for herself without feeling embarrassed about this choice. The evolution of techniques plays a significant role in the normalization of plastic surgery, as they offer improved postoperative recovery and natural results.
What an individual undergoing plastic surgery should pay attention to is being fully informed by the plastic surgeon about the procedure and the materials to be used, as well as setting a realistic goal. When these surgeries are performed with logic and caution, they lead to higher self-confidence and quality of life.
Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation is one of the most popular aesthetic procedures that enhance a woman’s self-confidence. The primary goal is to increase the size of the breast, which can also help correct minor breast sagging.
New techniques, tools, and advanced implants offer maximum safety, natural results, and immediate recovery. Thus, women can more easily decide to undergo breast augmentation surgery as they can quickly return to their daily obligations and activities with proper guidance from the plastic surgeon.
First, we record and measure the existing breast, taking into account its characteristics: dimensions, projection, volume, consistency, and elasticity. Then, based on specific measurements of the woman’s body and the desired outcome, we decide on the size, type, characteristics, and placement position of the implant to be used.
Breast augmentation surgery is performed under general anesthesia. A small incision is made, and the implant is placed behind the existing breast either subglandularly, submuscularly, or in a dual plane (dual plane technique). The surgery lasts about 1 ½ hours. After the surgery, the patient remains under observation in the clinic for a few hours or overnight.
Breast Lift – Mastopexy
With a breast lift, also known as mastopexy, the breast is elevated, its shape is improved, and it looks more youthful, full, and firm. This procedure aims to address skin laxity and the sagging of tissues that make the breast appear aged. Depending on the degree of breast sagging, different lifting techniques are used.
To restore the attractive shape and youthful position of the breast, the glandular tissue is lifted and the internal structure of the breasts is reshaped to enhance the upper pole (the area above the nipple), which tends to “empty” after pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, and as a result of aging. Additionally, the position of the nipple is lifted, the diameter of the areola is reduced, and excess skin is removed to achieve skin firmness. During the lift, any asymmetry between the breasts (anisomastia) can also be corrected.
In cases of small and slightly sagging breasts, an augmentation mastopexy may be performed, which is a breast lift with the simultaneous use of silicone implants. Simultaneous mastopexy (lifting) and breast augmentation is one of the most common cosmetic breast procedures. However, it requires very careful planning as these two procedures exert opposing forces on the tissues and skin.
The result of a breast lift can last up to 20 years, as the aging process is continuous, but the sagging will be much less significant due to the previous mastopexy procedure.
Breast Reduction
Breast reduction surgery addresses the large size of the breasts, which is often accompanied by sagging, laxity, and even stretch marks. Large breasts cause functional problems for women, primarily back pain, neck pain, rashes under the breast, a feeling of heaviness in the chest, and psychological issues.
It’s not just about a smaller breast but about an overall functional result for the woman. It is a procedure that combines aesthetic results with the functionality of the breast. Choosing an experienced plastic surgeon is crucial, and special attention must be given to not disturbing the milk ducts to preserve the breastfeeding mechanism.
In this procedure, a portion of the glandular tissue and fat responsible for the breast enlargement is removed. Breast reduction is combined with a breast lift and nipple repositioning for a better result. This surgery allows us to offer a better shape to the new breast with a balanced internal redistribution of fat and glandular tissue. Emphasis is placed on the shape, position, projection, and proportion of the breast to ensure that the result is completely natural and harmonious in relation to the rest of the body.
What to Watch Out For
You should seek out a specialized plastic surgeon because plastic surgery as a medical procedure is not a simple process but requires specialization, precision, and certified materials. Pay special attention to detailed measurements of the breast (in relation to the degree of sagging, skin elasticity, density of the glandular tissue, and breast projection) and the planning of the appropriate surgical approach. It is important to maintain the integrity of the vessels and nerves, which are essential for nipple sensitivity and breastfeeding mechanisms. The main concern of anyone considering plastic surgery should be safety combined with an excellent result.
The article was edited by Mr. Fotis Karantonis, Plastic Surgeon in Athens Hospital.