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Posted November 05, 2020 in Breast Augmentation, Breast Reconstruction | 3 minute read
Breast augmentation and breast reconstruction surgery are distinctly different procedures. While breast augmentation procedures are designed to increase your current breast volume, breast reconstruction is often performed to restore function and a normal appearance after either cancer surgery or in the setting of a birth difference.
If you live in Houston, West Houston, or Katy, TX, you can explore the differences between breast reconstruction vs breast augmentation while learning about the benefits of each. Contact Ellsworth Plastic Surgery to schedule your breast consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Warren Ellsworth.
What is breast augmentation?
Most people have heard of breast augmentation procedures. They are mainly used to increase breast size, usually through medical-grade implants. Silicone implants come pre-filled in a range of sizes. Saline implants are inserted into the chest before being filled. Patients choose breast augmentation if they have naturally small or deflated breasts as a result of pregnancy and breastfeeding.
During breast augmentation, incisions are made under the breasts before the implants are inserted and arranged in the correct position. Sometimes, patients choose to get breast lift surgery at the same time to ensure their breasts and nipples remain perky and lifted. Afterward, patients are given a surgical bra to control side effects, like postoperative inflammation.
What is breast reconstruction?
The goal of breast reconstruction surgery is to restore the breast after a patient has had surgery to remove them or if a patient was born without the organ needed for breast development. In many instances of breast cancer, women will opt for a procedure called a mastectomy to remove breast cancer or stop cancer from spreading. A single mastectomy involves the removal of one breast, while a double mastectomy removes both. During a lumpectomy, only a portion of the breast is removed.
There are several techniques used in breast cancer reconstruction. Depending on your cancer diagnosis and whether we use natural tissue or implants, Dr. Ellsworth will create a custom treatment plan for you. Flap methods, for example, use your own natural skin and fat tissue to cover and rebuild the mound. Patients living in Houston, West Houston, or Katy, TX can learn the details by scheduling a visit.
Reasons to get breast augmentation or reconstruction
If you have a small amount of breast tissue or have undergone a mastectomy or lumpectomy, you may benefit from breast augmentation or breast cancer reconstruction. During a consultation at Ellsworth Plastic Surgery, you can ask questions and gain a better understanding of your results. Read about the benefits of breast enhancement below:
- Create better symmetry: Surgery can address problems such as asymmetrical or differently-shaped breasts.
- Restore your breasts to a previous state: Breast augmentation and reconstruction may restore your appearance when the breasts are affected by factors like pregnancy and cancer surgery.
- Improve confidence: Breast surgery can give women the opportunity to improve their overall self-esteem and confidence.
Learn about breast reconstruction vs breast augmentation
Most women who choose to get breast surgery report feeling better about their bodies. Whether you are interested in breast augmentation or breast cancer reconstruction, you can contact Ellsworth Plastic Surgery to learn about your options. Dr. Warren Ellsworth can explain the different breast enhancement procedures available and some of the common reasons why Houston, West Houston, or Katy, TX patients choose each. We hope to coordinate the best possible care for you.