Breast Implants
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BREAST IMPLANTS
Breast implant surgery, known as breast augmentation, is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries worldwide. It can help improve self-confidence, body image, and overall quality of life for many individuals. Breast implants are medical appliances used in breast augmentation surgery (augmentation mammoplasty). They enhance the size, shape, and symmetry of the breasts. Implants are typically made from saline or silicone. Typically, they are available in various sizes, shapes, and textures to suit individual preferences and body types. The decision to undergo breast augmentation and choose a specific type of implant should be made in consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Before proceeding with the surgery, having realistic expectations and a thorough understanding of the benefits, limitations, and potential risks of breast implants is essential. Factors such as the patient’s anatomy, personal goals, lifestyle, and the surgeon’s recommendations play a role in determining the most appropriate implant and surgical approach for each case.
TYPES OF BREAST IMPLANTS
Breast implants are completely safe and approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). There are several types of breast implants, each with different materials and shapes. The most common types include: Silicone breast implants: These implants are filled with a thick, cohesive silicone gel. That closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. They come in various shapes, sizes, and textures to suit individual preferences and body types.
Saline filled implants: These implants have a silicone outer shell. They are filled with sterile saline (saltwater) solution. They can be pre-filled or filled during surgery to achieve the desired size and shape. Saline implants tend to feel firmer than silicone gel implants.
Structured saline implants: These are a subtype of saline filled implants. They are designed with an internal structure to provide a more natural feel and shape. The internal structure can be made of multiple layers or a nested shell design, providing better support and stability.
Gummy bear implants: They are also known as form-stable or highly cohesive silicone gel implants. These implants are filled with a thicker, more cohesive silicone gel, which maintains its shape and provides a more natural appearance. Gummy bear implants are available in both round and teardrop shapes.
Composite implants: These implants combine different materials, such as silicone gel and saline, or incorporate additional features like an outer foam layer. They are less common and may not be widely available.
ADVANTAGES OF BREAST IMPLANTS
Breast implants offer several advantages for those seeking breast augmentation. Some of the benefits include:
- Improved breast size and shape: Breast implants can significantly enhance the size and shape of the breasts, giving a fuller, more proportionate appearance.
- Increased self-confidence and self-esteem: Many women experience a boost in self-confidence and self-esteem after breast augmentation, as they feel more comfortable and confident in their bodies.
- Reconstructive purposes: Breast implants can be used for breast reconstruction after mastectomy or lumpectomy due to breast cancer or other medical conditions. It helps to restore a more natural appearance and symmetry.
Correction of asymmetry: Breast implants can help correct noticeable breast asymmetry, achieving a more balanced and harmonious appearance.
Wide range of options: Breast implants come in various sizes, shapes, and materials. It allows customization to suit individual preferences and achieve the desired aesthetic outcome.
Long-lasting results: Although breast implants may need replacement eventually, they typically provide long-lasting results. Many implants can last 10-20 years or more. Furthermore, if desired, the patient can also ask for implant removal later.
Predictable results: Compared to fat transfer breast augmentation, breast implants generally offer more predictable results in size, shape, and overall appearance.
BREAST IMPLANTS OR FAT TRANSFER BREAST AUGMENTATION
Both breast implants and fat transfer breast augmentation are popular methods for increasing breast size and improving shape. The choice between the two depends on personal preferences, desired results, and the anatomy of an individual. Here’s a comparison of the two methods:
Breast Implants:
- It involves the insertion of silicone gel or saline-filled implants.
- Offers more predictable and dramatic results in terms of size and shape.
- Requires a larger incision, which may lead to more visible scarring.
- They may have a higher risk of complications, such as rupture, capsular contracture, or infection.
- Implants have a finite lifespan and may require replacement after 10-20 years.
- FDA-approved for women aged 18 (saline) or 22 (silicone) and older.
Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation:
- It involves liposuction to harvest fat from another body area, which is then purified and injected into the breasts.
- Using the patient’s fat, it provides a more natural look and feels.
- Smaller incisions result in less visible scarring.
- Lower risk of complications and no risk of implant rupture or capsular contracture.
- Results may be less predictable, as the body may reabsorb some of the transferred fat.
- Generally provides a more modest increase in breast size compared to implants.
- It may require multiple sessions to achieve the desired results.
In summary, breast implants typically provide dramatic results with a broader range of sizes and shapes. On the other hand, fat transfer offers a more natural look and feel, using the patient’s own body fat. The choice between the two methods ultimately depends on the goals, preferences, and unique anatomy of an individual.
WHICH TYPE OF BREAST IMPLANT LOOKS THE MOST NATURAL?
The most natural looking breast implant will vary depending on the body type, breast shape, and personal preferences of an individual. However, some general guidelines can help determine which implant may provide a more natural appearance:
- Silicone gel-filled implants: Silicone implants are often considered to provide a more natural look and feel compared to saline implants, as the cohesive silicone gel mimics the consistency of natural breast tissue.
- Anatomically shaped (teardrop) implants: These implants are designed to resemble the natural contour of a breast, with more fullness in the lower part and a gradual slope towards the upper part. They can create a more natural appearance, especially in women with little breast tissue. However, there is a rotation risk, which may cause an unnatural shape.
- Moderate or moderate-plus profile implants: Implants come in various profiles (projection) that determine how far the breast projects from the chest wall. Moderate or moderate-plus profiles typically offer a more natural-looking results as they balance projection and width.
- Proper sizing and placement: Choosing an implant size that complements the patient’s body proportions. Then placing the implant correctly (either submuscular or subglandular) contribute to a more natural appearance.
It is essential to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and preferences. They can help you choose the most appropriate implant type, size, and placement to achieve the most natural-looking results for your unique anatomy.
