Expertise in Breast Implants and Lifts

Dr. Bastidas, a distinguished plastic and reconstructive surgeon, has extensive experience in breast implants and lifts, serving the communities in New York and Long Island. His expertise spans both saline and silicone breast implants, each offering unique benefits tailored to patient needs.

Saline Breast Implants: Saline breast implants, composed of round silicone shells filled with salt water, are often mandatory for patients under 22 years old. These implants can be placed using a smaller incision as they are filled once positioned in the breast pocket. However, in the event of a rupture, the augmented breast will deflate, revealing asymmetry. Dr. Bastidas typically places saline implants in a sub-pectoral or sub-fascial plane to ensure proper tissue coverage, mitigating the potential for rippling under the skin, especially in thinner patients.

Silicone Breast Implants: Silicone breast implants are preferred for their superior texture and form compared to saline implants. Available in round or teardrop (anatomical) shapes, these implants require a slightly larger incision for placement. Modern silicone implants are highly cohesive, reducing the risk of silicone leakage in case of a rupture. Dr. Bastidas utilizes smooth silicone implants, which have not been associated with Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (ALCL). Regular exams and surveillance are recommended to monitor implant integrity and address any issues promptly.

Patients are informed that today's breast implants, often backed by warranties, are more cohesive and durable. Nonetheless, implants may need to be exchanged or removed due to capsular contracture typically after 10-12 years. Dr. Bastidas emphasizes natural results, often advising smaller implant sizes to ensure longevity and a more natural appearance.

Surgical Procedure and Recovery

Breast augmentation surgery typically lasts between 1.5 to 2 hours, extending to approximately 3-3.5 hours if combined with a breast lift. The procedure is conducted on an outpatient basis, with recovery being swift, often requiring minimal pain medication and allowing patients to resume daily activities within 1-2 days.

Combined Breast Lift Procedures

For many women, especially post-childbirth, a breast lift in conjunction with implant placement is essential to address skin stretching and sagging. Dr. Bastidas corrects these issues by removing excess skin and tightening the breast envelope, creating a youthful and natural appearance.

Breast Lift Techniques:

• Lollipop Incision (Circumvertical): This method involves an incision around the nipple and down the front of the breast, repositioning the nipple-areolar complex and removing excess skin to tighten the breast.
• Anchor Pattern (Wise Pattern): For more significant lifts, an additional incision under the breast may be necessary, providing a comprehensive lift and reshaping.

Combining breast lifts with augmentations enhances the breast’s size, perkiness, and elevation. Dr. Bastidas often recommends smaller implants during these procedures to achieve the most natural and youthful results.