What would be the best breast implant option for a physical therapist that works out 4-5 times a week?

Question

I’m a physical therapist and I’m considering a sub pec breast augmentation. I perform a lot of manual therapy that involves increased weight through my arms, shoulders and chest. I plan to take 4 weeks off from work and return to 2-3 days per week. I also work out 4-5 times a week (cardio and light strength training). Based on current research, I’m thinking a smooth implant vs. texture but I’m worried it might move vs. a teardrop option. Any advice would be helpful.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

I recommend an in person consultation with a plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and be measured. After I measure and discuss goals with my patients, we then look at pictures of women (my patients) with similar measurements with different size and style breast implants, and they choose what looks right for them. They also get to see what they would look like when the breasts have fully dropped and fluffed and in clothes. You get to see actual results and the surgeon's experience and not a virtual idea of what can be achieved. Women tell me that this process is very helpful in determining what size and style breast implant is right for them. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Irena Karanetz, MD · Answer

Hello,
Thank you for the question and photos. 
Breast implants can be safely placed above or below the muscle depending on patient's soft tissue characteristics and preference. If you have very thin breast tissues, it is best to place the implant under the muscle so that the implant edges are less visible and there is less likelihood of rippling.
Implant size discussion and implant selection is one of the most important steps during your consultation with plastic surgeon. The decision-making process depends on patient’s desires, as well as breast and soft tissue dimensions. 
Typically, patients may resume exercising and weight lifting 4-6 weeks after breast implant surgery, but it can also depend on the individual healing time.
I suggest that you seek an in person consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon in order to discuss your goals and concerns for the best cosmetic results. Make sure you specifically look at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results. 
Best wishes and good luck. 
Best regards, 
Dr. Irena KaranetzBreast Fellowship-TrainedBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Tasteful903369,
breast implant type and sizing selection is a complicated process and requires a detailed consultation that includes a discussion of your goals, a detailed examination, and a lengthy discussion. But the decision will always start and end with the patient. When it comes to sizing, we have all of our patients find 3 photos of their desired breast size. We ask for naked breast photos because clothing can obscure the true size (push up bras). Next, we consult with patients and go over the photos and take detailed breast measurements during a physical exam. Next, we using a sizing algorithm to determine a range of implants that will work based on the exam and the measurements.Lastly, during the operation, we use silicone sizers in the operating room to see how the size actually looks in the breast. We sit the patient up in the operating room, while asleep of course, and compare the sizer result with their desired look photos. If it is too small, we start the process over with a slightly larger implant. We don't stop until we get the perfect match.Of all of my breast augmentation patients, every one of them has been happy with their size due to this detailed and meticulous process. You don't want to invest time and money into a result that is either too big or too small.You should discuss your concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon and make sure that your surgeon understands your goals.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Ram Kalus, MD, FACS · Answer

The implant is actually less important that the implant pocket or location. Your query suggested that your implant would be sub pectoral. If you have adequate breast tissue thickness an alternative that might be more suitable for you would be a subfascial placement. This would minimize the risk of animation deformity with lots of pectoral action. Please consult with an experienced board certified plastic surgeon whose aesthetics align with your own based on his or her Before and After gallery. Do your research. Best of luck to you.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

I prefer the smooth round implants for excellent results and fewest long term risks. If you have minimal tissue, I recommend placing the implants behind the muscle. All this will be discussed during your consultation.

What would be the best breast implant option for a physical therapist that works out 4-5 times a week?

Answers (5)

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