Choosing the right implant in San Luis Obispo County is a significant decision that requires careful thought and expert guidance. Various factors, such as implant type, size, shape, profile, texture, and placement, contribute to the final result. These elements not only impact the appearance but also influence the feel, recovery, and long-term satisfaction with the breast enhancement procedure.
Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Charles Chalekson specializes in helping patients make informed decisions tailored to their body type, aesthetic goals, and medical safety.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Breast Implant
During your consultation with Dr. Chalekson, you will explore several key factors to ensure the best possible outcome for your unique goals and anatomy.
Type
Breast implants come in three primary types: saline, silicone, and structured saline. Each offers distinct advantages:
- Saline Implants: Filled with sterile saline water, these implants are generally less expensive, allow for size adjustments during surgery, and make leaks easy to detect. If leakage occurs, the body safely absorbs the saline.
- Silicone Implants: Known for their natural feel, silicone implants closely mimic the texture of real breast tissue. There are also choices of different silicone cohesiveness [firmness], which can also help affect your breast shape and appearance.
- Structured Saline Implants: Combining the benefits of both saline and silicone, these implants offer a natural feel with the safety and adjustability of saline.
Size and Shape
The size and shape of your implant directly influence the final result, so choosing the right one is essential for patients in San Luis Obispo County. Dr. Chalekson will consider factors such as your body frame, chest width, and desired proportions to create a balanced, natural appearance.
- Shape Options: Although there are both anatomic and shaped implants available, by far the biggest factor that typically affects appearance is the size/volume selection of your implants
Profile
The implant’s profile determines how far it projects from the chest wall and influences your silhouette.
- Low Profile: Wider base with minimal projection, ideal for subtle enhancements.
- Moderate Profile: Balanced projection and width for a natural look.
- High Profile: Narrower base with significant projection, creating a more dramatic contour.
Texture
Implant texture affects the behavior and feel of the implant:
- Smooth Implants: Move freely for a natural feel and have a lower risk of visible rippling. They allow dynamic movement, mimicking natural breast tissue.
- Textured Implants: Encourage scar tissue development to help implants stay in place, reducing the risk of shifting or rotation. There are also newer nano-textured implants that are felt to be more biocompatible and have lower complications than some older implants.
Placement
The placement of your implants plays a vital role in their appearance, feel, and your recovery:
- Sub-Muscular [Mostly Under the Chest/Pectoralis Muscle]: Offers a natural contour and is less likely to interfere with mammograms. Traditionally, has a lower risk of contracture.
- Sub-Glandular [On Top of the Muscle, Under the Breast Tissue]: Allows for shorter recovery times and is ideal for athletes as it avoids muscle interference during intense physical activity.
- Dual-Plane [Upper part under the muscle, lower part on top of the muscle]: Allows implant to fill loose breast tissue across the lower breast while having the advantage of concealment of the upper breast to avoid rippling.
Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Implants?
You may be a good candidate for breast implants if you are dissatisfied with the shape, size, or volume of your breasts. Ideal candidates include:
- Women experiencing loss of volume, shape, or firmness due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight loss, or aging.
- Those with asymmetrical, flattened, elongated, or sagging breasts.
Candidate Requirements
To ensure the best outcomes, candidates should:
- Be in good general health and maintain a stable weight.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption for six weeks before and after surgery.
- Have realistic expectations about the results and be committed to following pre- and post-surgical instructions.
Learn More About Choosing the Right Implant in San Luis Obispo County
Whether you’re looking to correct asymmetry, enhance your silhouette, or restore lost volume, choosing the right implant in San Luis Obispo County is a crucial step toward achieving your desired results. Dr. Chalekson will work closely with you to recommend the best implant type, size, and placement to meet your goals safely and effectively.
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Chalekson and take the first step toward transforming your confidence with breast implants. Our practice proudly serves patients throughout California, including San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles, Templeton, Atascadero, Arroyo Grande, Pismo Beach, Cambria, Santa Barbara, and Santa Maria. Let us help you achieve the look you’ve always wanted with personalized care and expertise.
