The Blueprint for Breasts An architectural science by Dr Layt The finest things are tailor-made, so why should your breasts be an exception? At the Layt Clinic, Dr Craig Layt has developed a perfect model that balances his expertise with his patient’s desires. In the same way that a blueprint is necessary to build the perfect house, Dr Layt’s unique six-step strategy to breast augmentation allows patients to plan, envisage and experience a customised procedure. It’s our busiest time of year for breast augmentations at The Layt Clinic, and below we answer some of the most frequently asked questions. What is a breast augmentation? Am I suitable? A breast augmentation is a procedure designed to produce larger and more shapely breasts. It involves the placement of breast implants behind the breast or chest wall muscles in order to achieve the desired result. Breast augmentation surgery is performed under a general anaesthetic and normally as a day procedure. Candidates for breast augmentations include women who desire larger breasts and women with smaller breasts who have a moderate degree of breast sagging. We can also assist women with asymmetry (where one breast is noticeably smaller than the other). What should I expect during the consultation process and lead up to surgery? The most important part of the surgery experience is often the consultation process. This process enables a decision to be made regarding the appropriateness of the operation and the type of procedure which best suits the individual. At the initial consultation, Dr Layt takes each patient through six decisions needed to “build the house”: 1. Size of the implant The final size after breast augmentation is a result of the existing breast tissue plus the implant. This means that placing the same implant size in two different people will give two different results. Dr Layt will discuss the desired size, and direct the decision making process based on what may suit the individual’s particular body shape. Dr Layt states, “It’s a bit like building a house. The footprint of the house needs to be the correct size and shape, and then the volume is determined by how many floors are put on it. This process is assisted by the use of our Vectra 3D imaging system". The Vectra 3D Imaging System at our Southport Clinic allows the patient to see a surgical prediction in 3D and with high definition. This is a valuable tool for Breast Augmentation in particular, allowing patients to become familiar with a very realistic simulation of their surgical forecast. Highquality before photos will be taken in both 2D and 3D forms for accurate reflection and comparison post surgery. 2. Shape of the implant The final breast shape is largely determined by the current shape. The use of shaped implants can sometimes be an advantage. This will be discussed at the consultation. 3. Surface The implant shell can be either smooth or textured, reflecting the different approaches taken to limit the risk of capsular contracture - also known as implant hardening. Generally, textured implants are preferred as they have a lower risk of long term issues. 4. Incision site Implants can be placed with an axillary (armpit) incision or peri-areola incision but most commonly an incision in the breast crease is used as it has the most predictable long term result. A scar in the crease under the breast is usually hidden while standing and is not seen whilst dressed in standard clothing. The choice of approach will be discussed at length during the consultation process. 5. Placement of the implant Breast implants can be placed in front of or behind the chest wall muscle. Placing the breast implant behind the muscle tends to give a smoother line and less chance of feeling the edge of the implant. There is also evidence that it reduces the incidence of hardening of the implant. It is particularly useful in women who have very little breast tissue. Positioning the breast implant in front of the muscle is advantageous in women who have slightly droopy breasts or who do a lot of chest exercises. 6. Implant filling The breast implant can be filled with either saline or silicone. A cohesive medical grade silicone gel, in general, feels more natural than saline, and produces long term good results. The selection of the implant is a joint decision between the patient and Dr Layt. The pros and cons of the various implants will be discussed, including the appropriateness of size, shape, placement, implant filling and implant shell in relation to the individual patient. 50 Pindara Magazine 2015\2016
Pindara Private Hospital Magazine - Issue Six
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