Breast augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure that many patients undergo to enhance their appearance and boost their confidence. However, the journey doesn’t end with the surgery. 

Patients often have questions about the results, particularly regarding the fullness and natural appearance of their breasts post-surgery. This article explores the nuances of achieving a natural look after breast augmentation.

Post-Surgery Expectations

Immediately after surgery, many patients are thrilled with the results. However, a common question arises: “Will the fullness go away?” This concern highlights the desire for a natural appearance, which is often associated with a more subtle and less pronounced fullness.

Defining a Natural Look

A natural look in breast augmentation is characterized by:

• Drop Due to Lack of Support: Over time, the breasts may naturally drop slightly due to gravity, which can contribute to a more natural appearance.
• Separation of the Breasts: A natural look often involves a noticeable separation between the breasts, avoiding the appearance of them touching or merging.
• Natural Upper Breast Contour: The top of the breasts should have a gentle slope rather than a pronounced fullness, which can sometimes appear artificial.

What is Considered Unnatural?

Certain features are typically seen as less natural in breast augmentation:

• Excessive Cleavage: While cleavage can be desirable, an overly full cleavage that is present all the time may not appear natural.
• Breasts Touching (Synmastia): When the breasts touch or merge in the middle, it can create a look known as synmastia, which many patients wish to avoid.
• Artificial Cleavage Creation: Technologies like underwire bras and side support can create cleavage, but they may not always result in a natural look without these aids.

Patient Desires: Balancing Natural and Enhanced

Most patients desire a balance between a natural appearance and the ability to enhance their cleavage when desired. This typically involves:

• A Natural Look Without Support: Patients often want their breasts to look natural without the need for constant support.
• Ability to Create Cleavage: With the right clothing and support, patients want the option to create cleavage for special occasions.
• Avoiding Constant Synmastia: While some touching might be acceptable in certain situations, constant synmastia is generally undesirable.

Achieving the Desired Look: Surgical Considerations

To achieve the desired natural look, several factors must be carefully considered:

1. Implant Width and Thickness: The profile of the breast implant, including its width and thickness, plays a crucial role in the final appearance.
2. Feel of the Implant: The filler material of the implant affects how natural the breasts feel to the touch.
3. Precision in Pocket Creation: As a plastic surgeon, creating the implant pocket with precision is essential. The pocket should be close enough to allow for natural movement but not so close that it results in synmastia.

Conclusion

In conclusion, achieving a natural look in breast augmentation requires careful planning and consideration of various factors. By understanding what constitutes a natural versus unnatural appearance, you can better communicate their desires to their surgeons, leading to more satisfying results.