When it comes to breast surgery, going into a consultation can feel daunting. Not only are there so many options—implants, fat grafting, lifts, and even mesh support systems. Now, some experts are throwing a new term into the mix: “designer breast surgery.” But what does that mean, exactly? And how does it fit with the other choices available?
While “designer” may sound like a trendy buzzword, it essentially points to 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’re diving deeper into the “designer breast surgery” trend.
Featured Experts
- Dr. M. Bradley Calobrace is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Louisville, KY
- Dr. Mokhtar Asaadi is a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York
Customized Over Cookie-Cutter
“Designer breasts imply that a breast surgery should enhance both the look and feel of the breasts in a way that fits 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, frame and personal goals rather than following a standard approach. Dr. Calobrace’s method involves understanding whether the issue is about adding volume, addressing droopiness, or both, which determines whether a lift, an implant or a combination of techniques is needed.
New York plastic surgeon Mokhtar Asaadi, MD adds it’s essential to look at each breast surgery as a scientific process that incorporates the unique qualities of the individual but not as a “designer” procedure. “There is no ‘designer breast surgery’—this is terminology some surgeons use,” he states. Dr. Asaadi says patients should focus on how their surgeon tailors their procedure rather than seek a catchy label.
Personalizing Implants
Today, there are so many customization options available. Dr. Calobrace highlights the importance of having access to different implant types to meet each patient’s unique needs. “I use implants from all four manufacturers based on the different qualities that fit each patient,” he explains. “Patient these days generally want to look natural and make sure their breast surgery matches and enhances their body, no matter what size they want to be.”
For Dr. Asaadi, what matters most is that the patient thoroughly understands each option. “Every procedure is designed for that specific patient based on a comprehensive evaluation of factors like anatomy, height, weight and asymmetry,” he says. “Patients need to understand when they see these marketing terms that no two procedures are alike and there’s no one implant or method that fits all.”
Long-Term Support
An exciting advancement in breast surgery is the use of mesh scaffolding, which many patients aren’t aware of until they meet with their surgeon. Often referred to as an “internal bra,” this technology provides long-term support and shape retention. “Mesh scaffolding, like Galaflex, creates an internal support bra that disappears over time but maintains strength,” says Dr. Calobrace. “I’ve used these since 2016 and they have changed my patients’ outcomes so incredibly.” This technique is particularly useful for patients looking for added support without relying solely on the breast tissue or implant for shape.
Natural Boosts
For those hesitant about implants, fat grafting, breast lifts 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 a part of many breast surgeries, adding volume and improving shape without the use of an implant.” This approach is great for a subtle enhancement. Similarly, auto-augmentation—a technique using the patient’s own tissue to mimic the look of an implant—gives a lift without synthetic materials.
As Dr. Calobrace puts it, “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 just as designer clothes are made to fit ‘perfectly.’” Regardless of terminology, both surgeons agree on one thing: the outcome should be a beautiful, natural-looking breast that feels uniquely yours.
