How Can You Make Breast Augmentation Results Look as Natural as Possible?

Although patients may be excited about enhancing their breast size and shape with plastic surgery, Philadelphia plastic surgeon Dr. Kevin Cross says that many people do express concern that their breast augmentation results could look artificial.

One of the most common myths about augmentation surgery is that the results will always look unnatural. In actuality, it’s entirely possible to achieve breast augmentation results that look and feel similar to real breasts.

Many people aren’t only concerned about the size of their implants when they’re having breast augmentation, but also the implants’ shape and proportions. There are several factors that can influence how natural your implants look and feel, including implant type, placement, and size.

While some women may opt for larger, more noticeable breast implants, many desire a more natural look that blends seamlessly with their existing physique. Achieving that natural-looking breast augmentation requires careful planning, the selection of the right type and size of implant, and an experienced surgeon with an eye for detail.

Let’s explore some of the details you’ll need to know to make your results as natural-looking as possible.

Consider the Type of Implant

There are two basic types of implants available: saline (which contains sterile salt water) and silicone (which is filled with a viscous plastic gel). Although both types are safe and effective, women who want their implants to look and feel more natural often decide to get silicone implants. Silicone implants are often considered more natural-looking due to their soft, gel-like texture that mimics natural breast tissue. Additionally, silicone implants have a more natural slope and shape compared to saline implants, which can appear rounder and firmer.

Have Complementary Procedures

There are other cosmetic procedures you can consider that can help to make your breast implants look much more natural, if that’s your goal. Liposuction is a surgical fat reduction procedure that involves the removal of excess, subcutaneous fat on specific areas of the body. This surgery reduces some of the problem areas that a patient can’t address with exercise or diet alone, to create slimmer contours. Liposuction can be done in addition to breast augmentation to give you a more balanced, proportional body shape.

In some cases, a breast lift may be necessary to achieve natural-looking breast augmentation results. A breast lift can help lift and reposition the breasts, giving them a more youthful appearance. By combining a breast lift with breast augmentation, women can achieve a natural-looking breast enhancement that improves both shape and volume.

Fat grafting is another option for getting an especially natural look and feel. Harvesting fat from a donor area on the body and adding it to the breasts can provide a modest increase or help “soften” the results of enhancement with implants.

Get Them Placed Under the Muscle

Breast implants can either be placed over the pectoral muscle or under it. Implants that are placed under the muscle usually have a more natural, gradual slope at the upper parts of the breasts. This technique is especially beneficial for patients who are very thin and don’t have much of their own natural breast tissue. Additionally, the submuscular placement can help reduce the appearance of visible rippling or wrinkling, which can occur when the implant is placed above the muscle.

Choose the Right Implant Size and Shape

One of the most critical factors in achieving natural-looking breast augmentation results is choosing the right implant size and shape. While some women may want to go for larger implants, it's essential to consider your natural body shape and proportions. A board-certified plastic surgeon can help you choose the right size and shape of implant that will complement your body's natural curves.

Follow Postoperative Care Instructions

Following your surgeon's postoperative care instructions is crucial to achieving the best possible breast augmentation results. This includes avoiding heavy lifting, staying hydrated, and wearing a compression garment to support the breasts during the healing process. By following these instructions, you can help minimize the risk of complications and promote proper healing, which can help ensure natural-looking breast augmentation results.

For more advice about how to get the most natural-looking results from plastic surgery, contact the Philadelphia area-based Cross Medical Group. Call (215) 561-9100 or submit a contact form to request a consultation if you would like to talk more about breast augmentation or other techniques to enhance the breasts.