Breast augmentation is by far the most popular cosmetic procedure today. In 2019, more than 290,000 women received this procedure in order to improve the size and volume breasts. While most of these are satisfied with a moderate size increase, a section of breast augmentation candidates want an extra-large implant size. Plastic surgeons typically combine the augmentation with a breast lift to achieve the desired outcome. In this article, we explore the XL breast augmentation procedure.
What is XL breast augmentation?
Different patients have different needs when it comes to breast enlargement. Extra-large breast augmentation is considered to be a size increase of 800cc or more. Some patients may require up to 2000cc to satisfy their cosmetic desires. Plastic surgeons typically perform big breast augmentation using saline implants (as opposed to silicone implants). This is because saline implants can be inserted during the procedure and then filled to the desired size much later.
Why extra large breast implants
Each woman who has breast enlargement is looking to make their bust truly amazing. Some candidates feel that they need extra large breast implants in order to achieve their desired size and volume. This can be a particularly great option for women who hardly had any bust at all and are looking to attain a size that will be noticeable. Individuals who lost weight or who have experienced breast deflation due to aging can also benefit from an XL breast augmentation.
XL breast augmentation consultation
The first step towards receiving your very large breast implants is to schedule a consultation with your selected plastic surgeon. The surgeon should listen to your concern, gather information on your medical history, and analyze your current breast size. Once this is done, the next step is to discuss the treatment options and discuss a size that should fulfill your cosmetic desires. While more than 95% of breast augmentation patients are happy with the outcome of the procedure, the key for patients is to work with a highly qualified plastic surgeon.
How to prepare for big breast augmentation?
Preparing ahead for your very large breast implants can go a long way to pave the way for a successful procedure outcome. Most plastic surgeons recommend that you adopt a healthy diet and stay hydrated weeks before the surgery. Smoking is prohibited within 4 weeks of the surgery, as it can increase the risk of complications and impair healing. You may also be asked to stock up with all the supplies you will need during recovery. These may include ice packs, prescription medications, pillows, and a recliner. It is also important that you have loose-fitting, comfortable clothing available, and avoid eating anything within 12 hours of the surgery.
Incision types for XL breast augmentation
Plastic surgeons have a number of incision techniques that they can use to perform breast augmentation.
- Periareolar incision – the incision is created along the outer edges of the areola. This incision type is popular with women who prefer a well hidden and blended scar. If the scar turns out dark after recovery, then it’ll hardly be noticeable because the color resembles the natural appearance of the areola. This incision method however comes with an elevated risk of nipple sensation loss.
- Infra-mammary incision – this is a type of breast augmentation incision that is created along the infra-mammary fold (lower breast fold). This method allows for a well-concealed scar while also minimizing the risk of nipple sensitivity loss.
- Transaxillary incision – the incision is created along the highest crease in the patient’s armpit. This method allows for a well-concealed scar (in the part) along with a reduced risk of nipple sensation loss.
Different patients have different needs. Your surgeon should let you know what the best incision method is depending on your needs and the goals of the surgery.
Large breast implants procedure
This procedure is basically the same as a typical augmentation, but special techniques are required for placing large breast implants. The surgeon will need to stabilize and reinforce the breast fold with products such as Strattice and Alloderm to provide excellent long-term support. Working with an experienced surgeon is crucial in order to ensure a successful procedure outcome while also minimizing the risk of scarring and other complications.
Is big breast augmentation safe?
There is no surgical procedure that is 100% risk-free. There is always a small chance of complications such as infection, bleeding, and unsatisfactory aesthetic outcome. Patients can minimize the risk of these complications by working with a seasoned surgeon who has performed numerous of these procedures. Other concerns that can play into your big breast augmentation include malpositioning, shape concerns, excess weight, skin stretching, and excess scarring. Make sure to talk to your surgeon about what technique or methods they use to reduce the possibility of each of these risks.
Recovery after large breast implants surgery
Immediately after the surgery, your plastic surgeon will keep you in a monitoring room for monitoring. This is important in order to study your vitals and make sure that you are recovering well from the treatment. It is important that you have someone to drive you home once you are discharged from the hospital. Recovery after receiving very large breast implants requires special care.
You will be asked to take a lot of bed rest, particularly over the first few days following the surgery. Most surgeons also recommend taking a light walk as soon as you are able to in order to prevent the formation of blood clots. It is not uncommon to experience tightness and some discomfort in the first week, especially if your implants were placed under the chest muscle. Your surgeon will provide pain medication to alleviate this discomfort, along with antibiotics to prevent an infection. You may be required to wear a surgical bra for at least 4 weeks. Avoid lifting any heavy objects until after you get the go-ahead from your plastic surgeon. It is important that you adhere to your surgeon’s post-operative instructions as well as attend all follow-up visits in order to ensure prompt and uninterrupted recovery.
Cost of large breast implants surgery
The typical cost of a breast enlargement procedure ranges between $6,000 and $11,000. Factors such as the surgical method used, hospital and anesthesiologist fees can have a bearing on this cost. The type of implant selected also has an impact as silicone gel implants are generally more expensive than saline ones. Since breast augmentation is considered to be an elected cosmetic procedure, insurance companies typically do not pay for it. Your plastic surgeon should provide a cost estimate to help you prepare to pay for this procedure during your initial consultation.
Large breast implants surgery FAQs
What is the largest breast implant size approved by the FDA?
The FDA has approved silicone gel breast implants up to 800cc in size. The biggest saline breast implant shells available are also 800cc in size, but these can be overfilled to a much larger size to suit the goals of the procedure. Get in touch with your plastic surgeon to learn more about what breast augmentation size is possible for you.
Can XL breast augmentation be done in a single procedure?
Plastic surgeons may be able to complete your extra-large breast implant procedure in just one operation. For patients who are looking for a much larger and fuller look, it may take more than one procedure to get there. Keep in mind that each patient’s body has its own limitations regarding what breast size can be safely placed during surgery. Following your first consultation with a plastic surgeon, your doctor should be able to examine your body and come up with an individualized treatment plan to suit your needs.
Will my implant size affect the cost of the surgery?
The selected breast implant size typically has no influence on the cost of your extra-large breast implant procedure. Most plastic surgeons offer a range of sizes including 350cc, 450cc, 500cc, 550cc, 600cc, 650cc, 700cc, 750cc, and 800cc. An experienced doctor will be able to offer a much larger size, up to 1400cc or even more. This is done by using the largest saline implant available (800cc) and overfilling it to achieve the desired size.
How difficult is recovery after a big areola breast augmentation?
Recovery after a big breast augmentation is not much different from recovery after a typical breast augmentation. You can expect to experience ‘pressure’, ‘heaviness’, and ‘discomfort’ in the treatment area over the first few days. Most patients will be able to resume routine activities within 2 weeks. However, you will be asked to desist from lifting any heavy items or engaging in strenuous exercises for at least 6 weeks. The average recovery duration after an XL breast augmentation is 3 weeks. Your plastic surgeon should provide detailed post-operative instructions to ensure that you have a smooth recovery duration.