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Breast augmentation, also known as the “boob job,” is a widely popular procedure performed to enhance the size and shape of a woman’s breasts. Breast augmentation has been consistently among the top five most performed cosmetic surgeries among women over the last few years.

“Unhappiness with breasts size and shape is all-too-common insecurity among many women. Many of these women turn to cosmetic breast augmentation to help them feel more confident in their bodies.” writes Dr. Mulholland, a plastic surgeon who performs breast augmentation surgery in Toronto, on their website.

There are some options for people to choose from when it comes to the different types of breast augmentation out there.

Saline Breast Implants

Saline implants are the most traditional form of breast implant. This type of implant is typically inserted as an empty casing and then filled with a sterile saline solution until it reaches its desired size and shape. These implants are widely popular as they are minimally invasive to put in, as the casing is inserted empty, leading to smaller incisions and a quicker recovery. Additionally, if the implant ruptures, the saline water within the implant can safely be absorbed by the body without repercussions.

However, a drawback to this type of implant is that the saline solution does not mimic breast tissue as accurately as other methods and thus may noticeably ripple and slosh around under the skin during activities such as exercise and bending.

Silicone Breast Implants

A more modern form of implant, the silicone breast plant (also known as the gummy bear implant), is made from a denser, cohesive silicone gel. This implant is more form stable than its saline counterpart and thus does not move around as noticeably. Additionally, it has a more realistic feel to the touch, making it the more inconspicuous implant of the two. Lastly, silicone implants are. More durable than saline and far less likely to leak or rupture. However, if the implant ruptures, a more extensive surgical process is required to remove the leakage, as silicone cannot be absorbed into the body like saline can.

Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation

Fat transfers, or fat grafting, is a type of breast augmentation where fat is removed via liposuction from a donor area on the body. Traditionally the donor area is designated by the patient and is an area where they desire unwanted fat removed, such as the stomach, love handles, or thighs. The fat is then transferred to the breasts to increase their size and round out their shape. This procedure can be performed as a standalone procedure or combined with implants.

When combined with implants, the fat is placed over the top of the implant to create a barrier of fat that allows the breast, which creates a more realistic feel and minimizes the effects of rippling.

Are Breast Lifts a Type of Augmentation?

While a breast lift is a cosmetic procedure on the breasts, it alters slightly from an augmentation. The goal of a breast lift is not to increase the cup size of a breast but rather restore it to its prior state.

Breasts can droop and sag over time, either due to age, post-breast feeding, or weight changes, creating a more ‘deflated’ appearance. A breast lift brings the breast to its original position and restores a youthful and perky appearance.

While the cup size is generally unaltered, implants and breast lift procedures can be combined and performed together.

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