Breast Augmentation

breast augmentation A Breast Augmentation is one of the most frequently performed procedures at The Julian Institute of Plastic Surgery in Tampa, Florida. Patients seek a breast augmentation to increase the size and shape of their breast, replace lost breast tissue after pregnancy or to obtain symmetry between their breasts. Dr. Polecritti offers a wide range of breast augmentation techniques around Tampa, Florida, in order to individualize the best option for each patient’s anatomy.

How do I determine what size implant I desire?

This is a very important part of the process and during your consultation, Dr. Polecritti will assist you in deciding your ideal size. We have a wide range of implant sizes and profiles available to try on during your consultation in both saline and silicone. We also will have you look at pictures of other patients and actresses to estimate the volume and size that you find most pleasing. Keep in mind, bra cup size is not standardized. For example, a B cup could easily be a C cup in another brand. Therefore, determining the size implant you desire based only on bra cup size alone may not be the best method.

What kind of implants do you use?

Both saline and silicone gel implants are available for your augmentation. The FDA has approved both saline and silicone gel implants for cosmetic enhancement. Several factors weigh into which implant style will be the right choice for your anatomy. (Some of these factors include: the amount of natural breast tissue you have now, the size of the implants you are interested in, are the implants to be placed below or above the muscle?, and will you require a breast lift in addition to the augmentation?) The silicone implants used today are a vast improvement in design compared to those of the past. Today, they are made with a medical grade cohesive gel, which causes the implant to maintain its shape and resists silicone leakage. These implants are sometimes called “gummy bear” implants because of their similar consistency to the gummy bear candy.

Please view the video of Dr Polecritti demonstrating the strength and fill of the different implants in the News & Video section.

Where are implants placed?

The implants can be placed on top of the pectoralis muscle but under the breast tissue. The term used for placement in this location is Subglandular. The implants can also be placed under the pectoralis muscle and against the chest wall. This is termed, Submuscular. Many factors play into the decision as to the best location in each individual. Dr Polecritti will discuss all of the pros and cons associated with each location during your consultation.

breast implant diagram

What is the dual plane technique?

The dual plane technique incorporates some of the benefits of both the subglandular and the submuscular placement. The implant is covered by the pectoralis muscle at the superior pole or top of the breast, but is subglandular at the inferior pole or lower portion of the breast). In certain individuals, this provides a very nice result. Dr. Polecritti will discuss this option for you during your consultation.

breast implant diagram 2

Where are the incisions placed?

You have several options here as well. The incision can be under the breast within the inframammary crease, within the hair bearing skin of the armpit, or along the bottom border of your nipple/areola. There are several factors which favor one sight over the other and Dr. Polecritti will assist you in choosing the right choice for you.

What is the recovery like after Breast Augmentation?

Most patients tolerate the surgery quite well with little or no medication. You will receive medication for pain as well as for muscle spasm should you need them. The sutures are absorbable and will not have to be removed. You will wear a loose fitting sports bra for several weeks and avoid underwire bras until instructed to do so. Typically, the submuscular placement is associated with a bit more discomfort and recovery than the subglandular placement. Some swelling is expected in either case and will gradually resolve over the first couple of weeks. The implants typically feel hard and firm early after surgery but over the next 1-2 months will soften and appear more natural. This is sometimes referred to as “dropping in”. Strenuous exercise or activity can be resumed in 4-6 weeks.

Will breast augmentation improve the shape of my breasts?

Every woman has certain asymmetries when comparing their breasts. The nipple/areola may be larger on one side, it may be a bit higher or lower on one side. The nipple and or center of your breast may point more to the outside than the other. You may have a wide sternum which causes the breasts to naturally lie towards the outside limiting cleavage, etc. Breast augmentation can address and improve some of these asymmetries and if there is volume discrepancy, different size implants can be used to improve this appearance. However, in many cases the implant only adds volume to the breast and the asymmetries that were there before surgery are still there after. In some cases, the increased size of the augmented breast accentuates these asymmetries. It is important to recognize these individual differences before under going breast augmentation surgery.  Call Now – ‪Telephone: (352) 290-4117 View our Specials & Breast Augmentation Before & After pictures »