A hybrid breast augmentation procedure is a procedure that enhances the contour and volume of the breasts by using both synthetic implants and donor fat from the patient’s own body. Combining the advantages of each augmentation technique allows an expert surgeon to create an ideal breast silhouette. And women looking for a way to enhance their breasts and regain confidence deserve every advantage!

There are many personal reasons why patients pursue breast augmentation. They may want a fuller bosom, or to correct asymmetry for a more balanced figure. It could be because they want to increase the breasts’ projection. Or, it could be to correct age and pregnancy-related changes such as sagging and deflation. Additionally, women requiring breast reconstruction may opt for a hybrid surgery.

At the Gillian Institute, we understand that choices are important. Whether you’re looking for a standard breast augmentation with implants, fat transfer alone, or a hybrid procedure,  Dr. Kimberly Short is the plastic surgeon for you. Patients work with her to design the most effective treatment plan and the perfect breast shape and size for their needs. Call our Downtown Indianapolis or our Northside Indianapolis office at (317) 913-3260, or fill out a form online to book your personal consultation with Dr. Short.

What is a Hybrid Augmentation?

Breast augmentation has been a popular cosmetic surgery for many decades, with the first procedure to use implants occurring in the early 1960s. Back then, the only way to increase the size of the breasts was silicone implants. Nowadays, unlike years ago, there are so many choices available for patients looking to increase their breast size. A hybrid breast augmentation incorporates two established techniques:

Breast Implants

Breast implants can be made from silicone, saline, or “form-stable” gel – the latter of which is also known as the “gummy bear” implant. At the Gillian Institute, we also use Mentor’s MemoryGel BOOST implants to provide increased form and stability.

Regardless of what’s inside them, they have a durable silicone shell. Our implants come in many shapes and sizes, and are chosen according to the needs of each patient. There are teardrop-shaped implants, and round ones; textured, and smooth. Nowadays, there are also many choices of projection in addition to the other options to consider before your procedure. Depending on the anatomy of the patient, breast implants can also have a different placement on the chest. Some doctors place implants above the pectoralis muscle, while others are carefully secured below it. ⁽¹⁾

Autologous Fat Transfer (AFT)

Autologous fat transfer, also known as fat grafting, is the harvesting of fat from another part of a patient’s body to be used elsewhere. During a hybrid breast augmentation, fat is placed in the breast tissue. Fat can be taken from a place such as the:

Removing the fat is done with liposuction. The surgeon makes a small incision where a cannula, or long, hollow instrument is then placed. The surgeon then harvests the fat by dislodging it from the surrounding tissue. Once the fat is collected and treated, the surgeon can then use it in hybrid breast augmentation.

Benefits of Hybrid Breast Augmentation

Which Implant is Right?

Selecting the appropriate implant plays an important role in the process.  To optimize surgical outcomes, the surgeon matches the implant to the needs and characteristics of the patient. ⁽²⁾ Things to Consider When Choosing Breast Implants:

Dr. Short will help you to decide which implant type is right for you. She will consider your size, body type, and skin elasticity and advise you accordingly using her expert anatomical knowledge. At the Gillian Institute, we offer the following breast implant choices:

Saline Implants

Saline has been used in implants since the procedure’s inception. The liquid itself is sterile salt water. This is beneficial as the silicone shell can be placed within the body empty, unlike other implant types. Once it is correctly placed within the breast, it can be filled with saline to the patient’s specifications, and reduces the size of the incision required.

Cohesive Gel Implants

Also known as the “gummy bear” implant, cohesive gel implants differ from standard silicone implants. Their consistency is firmer. This better helps them to maintain their shape and achieve increased projection with a look and feel that is most similar to natural breast tissue. ⁽³⁾

Mentor Xtra Implants

Mentor Xtra implants are made precisely for women who desire increased fullness. They are made from patented MemoryGel, these implants hold together firmly, but they have a natural feel and appearance. Available in Moderate Plus and High Profile projection options, Mentor Xtra is a great alternative to standard implants, with a minimized risk of rippling.

Candidates

Candidates for a hybrid breast augmentation:

Although it is a versatile, highly effective procedure to balance and enhance the size of the breasts, it is not suitable for everyone. This includes patients who:

Personal Consultation

Dr. Short welcomes patients interested in the hybrid breast augmentation procedure. Meet her in person at one of her two Indianapolis to discuss your needs, and to formulate your individualized treatment plan. After you have filled out the necessary intake forms, Dr. Short will ask you to describe your issues and how you envision your ideal breast profile. She will conduct a physical examination and note any asymmetry. She will also examine your skin’s elasticity. If you are a suitable candidate for the surgery, Dr. Short will explain how the procedure works, how you will benefit, and the outcomes you can expect to see once you are fully healed.

If you cannot make it to our offices in person, the Gillian Institute offers virtual consultations that work with your schedule.

Preparation

To prepare for a hybrid breast augmentation surgery:

Procedure

Silicone and saline implants augment breast size and volume, while donor fat can fill additional areas and surround the implants. This gives patients an effective, natural-looking result. A hybrid breast augmentation procedure requires enough time to perform both parts of the surgery, so the procedure is slightly longer. Dr. Short will administer anesthesia, then make the necessary incisions. Fat is then harvested from another area of the body using liposuction and prepared for transfer to the breasts. She will then place your chosen implants, and inject the fat as necessary to achieve your desired contours.

Recovery & Results

Recovery from a hybrid breast augmentation is much like recovery from any major surgery. Rest and time off from work are essential to heal well and get the best results. There will be some localized swelling and bruising, and you may have some limited movement for the first few weeks. Patients should avoid excessive movement or vigorous exercise until given the green light by Dr. Short. Discomfort can be managed with prescription pain medication, taken exactly as prescribed. You may need to wear a compression garment, and drains may be placed. A few days after your procedure, we will schedule their removal. We will give you full details for your aftercare If you have any questions regarding the progression of your recovery, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Cost of Hybrid Breast Augmentation in Indianapolis, IN

Hybrid breast augmentation combines two effective techniques to enhance the breasts, providing striking, natural-looking results. It can boost confidence, restore balance, and enhance your body’s silhouette. Every individual who wants surgery must consider the right type of breast augmentation for their needs. As such, the cost of treatment will vary depending on the details outlined in your treatment plan. To schedule an in-person or virtual consultation, call the Gillian Institute at (317) 913-3260 or fill out a contact form for more information.

To read about more of the plastic surgery services at the Gillian Institute, see more on our blog.

References

1. Shridharani SM, Bellamy JL, Mofid MM, Singh NK. Breast Augmentation. Eplasty. 2013;13:ic46. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3685325/
2. Magnusson MR, Connell T, Miroshnik M, et al. Breast Implant Selection: Consensus Recommendations Using a Modified Delphi Method. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – Global Open. 2019;7(5):e2237. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6571346/
3. Brown MH, Shenker R, Silver SA. Cohesive Silicone Gel Breast Implants in Aesthetic and Reconstructive Breast Surgery. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 2005;116(3):768-779. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16141814/