Breast Augmentation: The Importance of a Shared Vision
Good communication between patient and plastic surgeon is key for them to have a shared vision of the breast augmentation outcome. In my view, the success of any cosmetic surgery procedure is dependent on whether it realises the expectations of my patient, so it is crucial that I fully understand what they are hoping to achieve before we get close to an operating theatre.
The importance of the consultation.
During my Leamington breast augmentation consultations, I always allow plenty of time for the patient and myself to discuss what they are hoping to achieve. For my part, it is essential the patient is able to indicate what she is hoping for – if I feel that she is not sure in herself, has unrealistic expectations or is uncertain in any way, then I advise her to go away and, armed with the information I have given her, consider the procedure further.
The physical aspect also has to be taken into consideration; I perform a careful physical examination because my aim is to enhance the breasts to suit a lady’s size and frame. There may also be certain physical issues to account for when planning their breast augmentation procedure; it’s thought that 99 per cent of UK women will have some degree of breast asymmetry, in relation to position and volume, and up to 40 per cent will have a difference of one or even two cup sizes.
Other physical factors to consider include tubular breasts, where the breasts are constricted to some degree at the base, and the degree of sagging in the breast, known as ptosis. Significant ptosis requires an uplift operation (mastopexy) as the mainstay correction, possibly associated with augmentation.
Cup size considerations
Although women often arrive for a breast augmentation consultation at my Leamington cosmetic surgery clinic stating that they want to be a specific cup size, I always advise them not to get too hung up on bra measurements for a couple of reasons. Firstly, the patient’s size and frame has to be taken into consideration and a C-cup will look vastly different on someone who is tall with a wider frame than someone who is very petite: cup-size must be tailored to physique.
However, the big problem with cup size is that bra measurements vary greatly from shop to shop, so women’s perceptions of cup sizes are often skewed. Last month, the Daily Mail ran a feature on this very topic and their model was fitted with seven different bra sizes, ranging from a 34B to a 30E, in as many shops!
Breast implants come in cc measurements rather than cup sizes, but they are also available in a wide range of shapes and projections. Where the breast implants are inserted – either above or below the chest muscle – will also affect how they will appear.
A good cosmetic surgeon will be able to match a suitably-sized shape and size of breast implant in his or her mind’s eye with the outcome that each lady is looking for, so that the right implant can be available and selected for every occasion.
To book a Leamington breast augmentation consultation call 01926 436341.