Differences in size are often improved with the use of breast implants. Different volumes or implant shapes can be used on each side, generally improving the symmetry. Usually, other modifications are needed a the same time in order to maximize the results. The position of the inframammary fold (the crease beneath the breast) may need to be raised or lowered. Changes might be necessary within the breast tissue itself, such as to allow a “cone-shaped” breast  to become more rounded. 

Some Orange County patients benefit from a mastopexy, or breast  lift. There are different types of mastopexies that are possible. Some patients may require a lift on both sides, with one side lifted or tightened more than the other. Some patients may require a lift on one side only. Yet other patients may benefit from a reduction on one side, and a lift or even augmentation on the other side.

Surgery for breast asymmetry is specialized, and every patient in Orange County is completely unique. It’s important to consult a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, as I am. It’s just as important to find a surgeon who will take the personal time with you to determine the best way to address your asymmetry.

Dr. Andres Taleisnik

Most implants used for breast augmentation are round, whereas a smaller percentage have a “teardrop” shape. The “teardrop” implants, sometimes referred to as “anatomic” implants, are thicker (project or stick out more) towards the bottom of the breast, and thinner (project less) at the top of the breast. In theory, this could provide a more natural breast shape. In actuality, other factors are far more important in determining whether the breast appearance looks “natural.” Round implants don’t mean that the breast will look round. If the space for the implant (the implant pocket) is created properly, and the size chosen is appropriate, the round implant can provide an extremely natural appearance. I’ve stopped using the teardrop implants in recent years, mainly because the teardrop implant must have a textured, or rough, outer surface. The textured surface is necessary to keep the implant from rotating in the pocket, which might put the thicker and thinner parts of the implant in the wrong places. In my experience, the textured implants don’t settle into the breast as easily and naturally as the smooth implants. As a result, I mainly use smooth round implants. It doesn’t matter if a round implant rotates in the breast pocket, since this would not affect breast shape.

Another factor to consider is the “profile” of the implant. This term refers to the relationship between the diameter of the implant and its projection (how far it protrudes from the chest). The standard implant  has a “moderate” profile. There are also “high profile” implants that have a narrower diameter, with greater projection, for any given volume as compared to the moderate profile implant. A high profile implant might be ideal, for example, for a patient with a narrow chest wall. The high profile implant would allow such a patient to use the desired volume without the implants being too wide for her chest. There also exists a profile in between the high and moderate profile implants, referred to as “moderate plus profile.”

The “art” of breast augmentation involves consideration of implant texture, shape, and size among many other factors. Every patient is unique, and requires an individualized assessment and plan to achieve the best possible results from surgery. During your consultation, I’ll discuss these and other issues and decisions that will help you to achieve the appearance you’ve dreamed about.

Andres Taleisnik, M.D. is a board certified plastic surgeon in Orange County who offers a wide range of cosmetic plastic surgery procedures, such as liposuction, tummy tuck surgery (”abdominoplasty”), breast lift surgery, and breast augmentation surgery. To learn more, contact Dr. Taleisnik to schedule a complimentary consultation.

Silicone implants can often look and feel a little more “natural” than saline implants. Since a silicone implant is pre-filled, a larger incision is needed to insert a silicone implant than a saline implant, which can be inserted partially filled. A woman with small areolas (the dark skin around the nipple) may not be able to receive silicone implants through an incision around the areola, and instead may require an incision in the crease under the breasts. There have been questions in the past regarding possible effects of silicone if it leaks. For this reason, silicone implants were available only to women who met certain criteria, and who were enrolled in the large silicone implant studies, until Fall, 2006. After years of extensive testing, including evaluation of the many women who received silicone implants as part of the study, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) now allows any woman 22 or over to receive silicone implants. The FDA also recommended that women undergo an MRI examination of the breasts 3 years after receiving silicone implants, then every other year thereafter. Silicone implants are significantly more expensive than saline.

Saline implants remain the most popular choice in my practice. I can obtain very natural and beautiful results with saline implants too in most patients. Many of my patients prefer the firmer look and feel of the saline implants, which may result in a more “youthful” outcome. Most patients choose the peri-areolar incision, which generally is very inconspicuous (more on incisions for breast enhancement in another article). If a saline implant leaks, there are no concerns regarding a foreign substance in the body, since the implants contain only salt water. Saline implants may also be more helpful than silicone to counteract mild drooping or shape abnormalities of the breasts.

During your consultation with me, I will help you to decide which implant type will be best for you. There are a number of other decisions to make as well, including the shape or “profile” of the implants, the incision to use, the size, and others. I will guide you through the entire process, so that you will feel comfortable with your choices, and very happy with your results.

To schedule your consultation to meet with me (no charge), please call my office at 714-835-6500. Please also visit my website at www.ataleisnikmd.com.