When it comes to breast surgery, going to a consultation can be scary. There are just so many options—implants, fat grafting, lifts, even mesh support systems. Now, some experts are throwing a new term into the mix: “professional breast surgery.” But what exactly does this mean? And how does it stack up against the other options available?
While the term “designer” may sound like a trendy buzzword, it actually denotes a highly customized approach that many surgeons now bring to their work, aiming to create results that feel uniquely tailored to each patient. Ahead, we dive deeper into the “design breast surgery” trend.
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Custom over Cookie-Cutter
“Designer breasts suggest that a breast surgery should improve both the appearance and feel of the breast in a way that suits the individual,” says Louisville, KY plastic surgeon M. Bradley Calobrace, MD. The process of creating a “designer” breast begins by focusing on the patient’s anatomy, context and personal goals rather than following a standard approach. The method of Dr. Calobrace involves understanding whether the issue is adding volume, addressing sagging, or both, which determines whether a lift, implant, or a combination of techniques is needed.
New York City plastic surgeon Mokhtar Asaadi, MD adds that it is essential to approach any breast surgery as a scientific procedure that incorporates the unique qualities of the individual, but not as a “designer” procedure. “There is no such thing as ‘design breast surgery’—that’s the terminology some surgeons use,” she states. Dr. Asaadi says patients should focus on how their surgeon customizes their procedure rather than looking for a catchy label.
Customization of implants
Today, there are so many customization options available. Dr. Calobrace emphasizes the importance of having access to different types of implants to meet each patient’s unique needs. “I use implants from all four manufacturers based on the different properties that suit each patient,” he explains. “Patients these days generally want to look natural and make sure their breast surgery fits and enhances their body, no matter what size they want to be.”
For Dr. Asaadi, what matters most is that the patient fully understands each option. “Each procedure is designed for the specific patient based on a comprehensive assessment of factors such as anatomy, height, weight and asymmetry,” he says. “Patients need to understand when they see these marketing terms that no two procedures are the same and there is no one implant or method that fits everyone.”
Long term Support
An exciting advance in breast surgery is the use of mesh scaffolds, which many patients are unaware of until they meet with their surgeon. Often referred to as an “inner bra,” this technology provides long-lasting support and shape retention. “Mesh scaffolds, such as Galaflex, create an internal support bra that wears away over time but retains its strength,” says Dr. Calobrace. “I’ve been using them since 2016 and they have changed my patient outcomes so incredibly.” This technique is especially useful for patients seeking additional support without relying solely on breast tissue or the implant for shape.
Physical Reinforcements
For those hesitant about implants, fat grafting, breast lift and auto augmentation have become popular alternatives. Fat grafting, which involves transferring fat from another part of the body to the breast, can add natural volume and contour. Dr. Calobrace notes, “Fat grafting has become part of many breast procedures, adding volume and improving shape without the use of an implant.” This approach is great for a subtle improvement. Likewise, auto augmentation—a technique that uses the patient’s own tissue to mimic the appearance of an implant—gives a lift without synthetic materials.
As Dr. Calobrace, “You can be a B cup and look fantastic. you can also be a full D cup and look fantastic. It depends on the patient’s frame, shape, and ultimate goals—but patients always want the implant to “fit” their body, like designer clothes are made to fit “perfectly.” Regardless of the terminology, both surgeons agree on one thing: the result should be beautiful, natural-looking breasts that feel uniquely yours.
