Enhancing Natural Beauty: A Spotlight on Breast Augmentation Trends

Introduction:

In the dynamic world of plastic surgery, the trends in breast augmentation continue to evolve, reflecting a growing emphasis on enhancing natural beauty. As technology and techniques advance, patients and surgeons alike are exploring new possibilities to achieve more subtle and individualized results. This blog delves into the latest trends in breast augmentation, with a spotlight on 5th generation gummy bear implants, smaller overall sizes, and changes in pocket choices such as subfascial or multiplane augmentation.

Safety First!

Breast implants are among the most well studied medical devices in the world and several considerations have come to light such as implant associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma(BIA-ALCL), implant associated squamous cell carcinoma(BIA-SCC), breast implant illness, among more common concerns such as rupture and capsular contracture.

Having a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon that does not shy away from discussing these topics with specific details on how to avoid these issues and how the issues are diagnosed and treated.

5th Generation Gummy Bear Implants:

One of the most significant advancements in breast augmentation technology is the introduction of 5th generation gummy bear implants. These implants are composed of highly cohesive silicone gel, which maintains its form and shape even when cut. The term "gummy bear" aptly describes the consistency of the gel – soft and natural, yet with a unique ability to retain its shape.  The shell of the implant is thicker and more elastic than previous generations which allow rupture rates in the 1% per year range for most of the available implants.

The benefits of 5th generation gummy bear implants extend beyond their consistency. They provide a more natural look and feel compared to traditional silicone or saline implants. The cohesive gel minimizes the risk of rippling, while also reducing the chances of implant rupture. This has made gummy bear implants increasingly popular among patients seeking a breast augmentation that not only enhances size but also feels remarkably natural.

Most of the manufacturers have a softer version and a firmer version of their gummy bear implants and this allows even more customization of the breast augmentation for the patient.  The choice is ultimately the patient's but with consultation with your board certified plastic surgeon a great implant that achieves your goals with consistency can be chosen.

Embracing Smaller Overall Sizes:

A notable trend in breast augmentation is the shift towards smaller overall sizes. While larger breast implants were once a popular choice, many individuals are now opting for more modest enhancements that complement their natural proportions. The desire for subtlety and a more refined aesthetic has led to an appreciation for smaller-sized implants that provide a harmonious and balanced appearance.

The focus on smaller overall sizes aligns with the growing trend of achieving a more natural-looking outcome. Surgeons work closely with patients to choose implants that enhance the breasts while maintaining a proportionate and realistic silhouette. At Levesque Plastic Surgery we use Vectra 3D simulation to aid picking the right size implant to achieve our patient's goals.  This has led to a very low revision rate for size in our patients much lower than reported in the scientific literature. 

Using smaller sized implants also help minimizing the stress implants put on the surrounding breast tissue and skin and result in longer lasting results and perhaps avoiding need for revision surgeries such as breast lifts when larger implants are used that exceed what the patient's breast tissue and skin can support.

This trend certainly mirrors the growing trend of fit and athleisure culture with increased popularity of yoga, pilates, among other forms of fitness.

Changes in Pocket Choice: Subfascial and Multiplane Augmentation:

Traditionally, breast implants were placed either above the chest muscle (subglandular) or beneath the chest muscle (submuscular). However, recent trends in breast augmentation have led to a reconsideration of pocket choices, with a spotlight on subfascial and multiplane augmentation.

Subfascial Augmentation:

Subfascial augmentation involves placing the breast implant beneath the fascia, a thin layer of connective tissue covering the chest muscles. This technique offers advantages such as reduced postoperative pain and a quicker recovery compared to submuscular placement. Additionally, subfascial augmentation provides a more natural movement of the breast implant, contributing to a soft and natural look.  The risk of animation deformity which is movements or displacement of the implants with movement of the arms and chest is minimized with techniques that avoid placing implants under the pectoralis muscle.

Multiplane Augmentation:

Multiplane augmentation combines elements of both subglandular and submuscular placement. This technique allows the surgeon to customize the implant position based on the patient's anatomy, achieving a more tailored outcome. Multiplane augmentation aims to provide the benefits of subglandular placement, such as a more natural breast shape, while also minimizing the risk of complications associated with submuscular placement.  The areas the implant is under the pectoralis muscle, which are the superior (or upper portion of the breast) and lateral inferior (lower and outer), allow for additional support to the implant position and also cover the implant so there is less chance of rippling.  The advancements in multiplane placement coming out of South America are most useful in breast lift and augmentation cases and are designed to provide a very stable position of the implant high on the chest over time.  This is a modification of dual plane approaches by which the outer portion of the pectoralis muscle and perhaps serratus muscles are left intact to prevent descent and lateral displacement of the implant.

Considerations and Consultation:

Before undergoing breast augmentation, it is crucial for individuals to have a thorough consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will assess the patient's anatomy, discuss their goals, and recommend the most suitable approach based on their unique characteristics.

Factors such as body type, lifestyle, and desired outcome play a significant role in determining the choice of implants and pocket placement. The surgeon will guide the patient through these considerations, ensuring an informed decision that aligns with the individual's vision for enhanced natural beauty.

Recovery and Long-Term Results:

Recovery from breast augmentation varies depending on factors such as implant size, placement, and individual healing characteristics. Following post-operative care instructions, including the use of supportive garments and avoiding strenuous activities, is crucial for a smooth recovery process.

It's essential for patients to understand that the final results of breast augmentation may take some time to fully manifest. Swelling will gradually subside, allowing the breasts to settle into their natural position. Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon will ensure that the healing process is progressing as expected and that any concerns are addressed promptly.

Conclusion:

The trends in breast augmentation are a testament to the evolving landscape of plastic surgery, with a clear shift towards enhancing natural beauty. From the introduction of 5th generation gummy bear implants to a preference for smaller overall sizes and changes in pocket choices like subfascial and multiplane augmentation, patients now have more options than ever to achieve personalized and subtle enhancements.

As individuals seek breast augmentation to feel more confident and comfortable in their bodies, these trends reflect a growing appreciation for natural aesthetics. The collaboration between patients and skilled surgeons allows for the creation of beautiful, balanced, and harmonious results that enhance, rather than overshadow, a person's natural beauty. In the pursuit of breast augmentation, the key lies in informed decision-making, thorough consultation, and a commitment to achieving results that align with the individual's unique vision of beauty.