Women considering breast augmentation at my Birmingham, Alabama, practice are much less likely to want overly large breasts than they were 10 years ago, with more women choosing a subtle increase to their breast size. The “natural look” is trending and board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Beckenstein, who specializes in breast enhancement surgeries, expects that trend to continue.
We asked Dr. Beckenstein about his approach to breast augmentation and the current trend toward smaller breast implants. “Our mantra has always been: We cater to the garden club, not the strip club,” he said. That focus on modest breast enlargement makes Dr. Beckenstein the perfect person to ask about this trend.
Are more women opting for smaller breast implants?
“I have always been conservative with breast augmentation and have always used smaller implants. My patients know what I accomplish by looking at my gallery of before-and-after photos, so I guess they come in with that preconceived notion.”
Current articles, including Marketwatch’s It’s B Cup or Bust, seem to confirm that women are, in fact, choosing smaller implants.
“This might be a social/fashion trend,” Dr. Beckenstein says, “or it might be the demise of the ‘fake, augmented look’ or a bit of both. “
How do you determine breast implant size?
“I use an anatomic approach, where I use various measurements of the chest, breast, and torso. I listen to what relative size the patient is seeking to assist in choosing the devices. After measuring the dimensions, the patient chooses when I displace her tissue in certain directions, I find a range of devices that should be sufficient. We then use the Crisalix VR 3D imaging system that allows the patient to see what she can look like with the implants in. It is a really cool system and looks like she is looking at herself in a mirror. She can compare various implants with this and make a better decision.”
Are you seeing more women seeking breast enhancement?
“Definitely, it is becoming a more frequently requested procedure. It is safe, affordable, and the results are very good! Women interested in breast augmentation need to seek out a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon as many non-board-certified physicians are performing these … be careful!”
Can you go smaller with breast implants if you’ve already had a breast augmentation?
Most women and their surgeons put a great deal of thought and care into selecting an appropriately sized implant, and the vast majority of women are happy with their implants. Occasionally, however, some women choose to replace their implants with smaller versions during breast revision surgery.
Breast revision surgery is more complicated than an initial breast augmentation, so it’s important to choose a surgeon with extensive experience in the procedure. Dr. Beckenstein is known for his skillful breast revision procedures, and many physicians and colleagues have even referred their own patients to Dr. Beckenstein for revision surgery.
Dr. Beckenstein’s reputation for excellent, beautiful results attracts women considering breast augmentation from Huntsville, Montgomery, Tuscaloosa, and throughout Alabama to his practice. If you would like to visit with Dr. Beckenstein in Birmingham, AL, contact him using this online form or call us at 205-933-9308 or 1-866-MSBMD77.
Post updated November 2020
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