Different Types of Breast Implants Explained
Breast augmentation surgery has become increasingly popular, with more and more women opting to enhance their breast size and shape through the use of breast implants. While breast implants are a common term, many women may not be aware of the different types of breast implants available and the options they have when it comes to breast augmentation. Let’s explore the different types of breast implants, their features, and the factors to consider when choosing the right implant for your specific needs and goals.
Understanding Breast Implants
Breast implants are medical devices used to augment the breasts, either for cosmetic reasons or as part of breast reconstruction after surgery. These implants are typically made of a silicone shell filled with either silicone gel or saline, which is sterile salt water. They are placed in the breast pocket created during the surgical procedure. The type and shape of the implants can vary, allowing for customization based on the patient's desired results and natural breast size.
Importance of Breast Implants
Breast implants are of significant importance for various reasons. They are commonly used in breast augmentation surgery, which is a type of plastic surgery aimed at enhancing the size and shape of the breasts. In addition to cosmetic purposes, breast implants also play a vital role in breast reconstruction after surgery, particularly for women who have undergone mastectomy due to breast cancer. Some women have deformed breasts from birth or severe breast asymmetry. Breast implants can help restore breast volume and shape, allowing women to regain their confidence and body image.(1)
Breakdown of Different Types of Breast Implants
Now, let's take a closer look at the different types of breast implants available today. Each type offers unique features and benefits, allowing women to choose an implant that best suits their needs and goals.
Saline Breast Implants
Saline breast implants are filled with sterile salt water, known as saline solution. Here are some key characteristics of saline breast implants:
Saline breast implants are inserted empty and then filled with saline solution during surgery.
They require a smaller incision compared to silicone implants, as they can be filled after placement.
Saline implants can be underfilled or overfilled to adjust the feel of the implant.
They may ripple under the skin, especially in women with thin breast tissue.
Saline implants are typically recommended for women over 18 years of age who are seeking breast augmentation surgery.
Saline implants can be placed through the axilla, the inframammary fold, or the periareolar incision.
Silicone Breast Implants
Silicone breast implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel, which provides a natural breast look and feel. Here are some key characteristics of silicone breast implants:
Silicone breast implants come pre-filled with silicone gel, a cohesive substance that mimics the texture of natural breast tissue.
The gel filling of silicone implants can vary in consistency, allowing for different sizes and shapes of implants.
Silicone implants require a longer incision compared to saline implants, as they are pre-filled before placement.
They are available in different sizes and shapes, allowing for customization based on the patient's desired results.
Silicone breast implants have been known for their durability and long-lasting results, giving them a high satisfaction rate among patients.
Patients have to be 21 years of age to receive silicone implants for augmentation purposes.
Cohesive Silicone Gel Breast Implants (Gummy Bear Implants)
Cohesive silicone gel breast implants, also known as "Gummy Bear Implants," maintain their shape even when cut, providing a natural breast look, feel, and movement. These implants reduce the risk of rupture and are available in various sizes and shapes to suit individual preferences. Additionally, they offer upper pole fullness, making them a popular choice in breast surgery. With the advancements in cosmetic surgery, cohesive silicone gel breast implants have become a promising option for enhancing breast aesthetics and reconstruction after breast cancer.
Ideal Implants
Ideal implants utilize a unique design of nested implant shells, offering a natural feel devoid of silicone gel. With a lower rupture rate than silicone implants, they provide a more youthful appearance and natural fullness, especially ideal for women over 18 and under 21 seeking breast augmentation but want to avoid saline implants. These implants are a remarkable option for individuals considering cosmetic surgery, as they combine safety and aesthetics seamlessly.
Role of Properties in Breast Implants
Properties of breast implants play a critical role in determining the outcome of breast surgery. Plastic surgeons consider factors like the type, size, and shape of implants to meet the diverse needs of patients, whether for reconstructive purposes after breast cancer or for cosmetic enhancements. The American Board of Plastic Surgery recommends regular MRI scans for women with silicone breast implants.(2) In the United States, round implants are most commonly used in the US, offering versatility in achieving desired outcomes for patients seeking breast augmentation or reconstruction.
Diameter and Its Impact
Implant size directly impacts the coverage of natural breast tissue. The natural breast's diameter is the most important determining factor when considering implant sizes. To maintain a natural look, larger implants often require a wider breast diameter. Ensuring proper fit and support, the right implant diameter is crucial for achieving a natural breast shape. Choosing the appropriate diameter is paramount in breast augmentation, with the breast anatomy being the most important factor in its determination. The impact of implant diameter on breast aesthetics cannot be understated.
Significance of Volume
The size of breast implants significantly influences the shape and overall fullness of the breasts. Different implant sizes offer varying levels of volume, allowing for personalized adjustments. It's crucial to consider your natural breast size and shape when selecting the volume of breast implants, as this affects the natural look of the implants. Implant volume is expressed in cubic centimeters or cc. A certain cubic centimeter number does not always translate to the same breast cup size. It is important to consider the patient's overall anatomy when matching the volume number to an estimated cup size. Understanding the significance of volume is essential for making a well-informed decision.
Understanding Projections
Different breast implant projections determine the degree of forward projection from the chest, influencing the upper pole fullness and post-surgery breast shape. Each projection type offers distinct aesthetic results, impacting the overall appearance of the breasts. Understanding projections is crucial for achieving surgical goals and guiding the choice of breast implant projection for desired outcomes. Projections usually range from low profile to high profile. Some manufacturers offer ultra-high. The higher the profile, the more prominent a breast appears, which may not always correlate with a natural breast shape.
Cohesiveness and Aesthetic Results
The firmness and natural feel of breasts are determined by the cohesiveness of breast implants. Various cohesive silicone gel options yield different outcomes in breast augmentation surgery, influencing the shape and movement of the implants. Cohesiveness describes the increased cross-linking of gel molecules. The more the molecules are linked, the higher the cohesiveness and the more form stable the breast implant. Remember that natural breasts are usually soft and then to change shape depending on gravity. Aesthetic results are intricately connected to the cohesiveness level of breast implants, highlighting the significance of this factor in achieving desired outcomes.
Choosing the Right Breast Implant
When considering breast surgery, it's important to choose the right implant type based on individual needs and preferences. Factors such as cosmetic goals, body type, and personal preferences play a crucial role in decision-making. Patients can select from saline or silicone breast implants, each offering unique advantages. It's advisable to seek guidance from a board-certified plastic surgeon to explore all options thoroughly. Additionally, individuals with a history of breast cancer may have specific implant considerations. MRI scans are also recommended for monitoring silicone implants.
Factors to Consider
When considering breast augmentation, factors such as implant type, size, and shape play a crucial role. The amount of natural breast tissue and surgical goals also influence the choice of breast implants. Additionally, factors such as surgical incision, implant shell, and placement are important to consider. It's essential to take into account personal medical history and the risk of breast implant rupture. Different breast implant options offer diverse benefits and considerations, including whether a breast lift is needed concurrently.
Role of Personal Preference
When considering breast surgery, personal preference plays a crucial role in determining the type, size, and shape of the implant. Lifestyle factors such as physical activity and cosmetic goals heavily influence this choice. Aligning personal preference with surgical options is essential for post-surgery satisfaction. Ultimately, understanding personal preferences is key to making informed decisions about breast implants, ensuring overall satisfaction with the results.
Importance of Medical Advice
Seeking guidance from a qualified plastic surgeon plays a crucial role in the selection of breast implants. This expert advice provides valuable insights into the most suitable options, ensuring the best possible outcome for breast augmentation. Furthermore, medical advice helps in evaluating the risks, benefits, and suitability of different breast implant choices. Ultimately, consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon ensures well-informed decisions and personalized recommendations, leading to a successful and satisfying breast surgery experience.
Post-Surgery Care and Maintenance
After breast surgery, it's crucial to follow post-operative care instructions for optimal recovery. Patients with silicone or saline breast implants should expect regular check-ups and monitor for any unusual symptoms. Additionally, those who have undergone breast surgery due to breast cancer may require specialized care. It's important to discuss with a plastic surgeon about the need for an MRI scan and adhere to the recommendations of the American Board of Plastic Surgery for long-term care and maintenance. In the United States, round implants are popular in cosmetic surgery procedures, and proper post-surgery care can ensure their longevity.
Recovery Process
After undergoing breast implant surgery, recovery entails both physical and emotional aspects. Adhering to surgical bra instructions, refraining from heavy lifting, and attending regular check-ups are crucial for a smooth recovery process. The duration of recovery varies depending on individual healing capacity and the specific type of breast implant procedure. Patients must comprehend the recovery process to facilitate a seamless transition post breast augmentation surgery. Patience, compliance with medical advice, and dedicated self-care practices are essential during the recovery period.
Possible Complications and Solutions
Possible complications associated with breast implants, such as silent rupture, scar tissue, and breast pain, necessitate awareness for timely intervention. Recognizing the signs of breast implant rupture is crucial for seeking prompt medical attention. Education about potential complications empowers informed decision-making, while plastic surgeons offer solutions to address implant-related issues. Whether it's silicone or saline breast implants, understanding the potential complications and seeking timely medical assistance is vital. Regular MRI scans are advisable, especially in the United States, to check for silent ruptures.
Should I consider a revision surgery if unsatisfied with the results?
Considering a revision surgery may be an option if you're not satisfied with the results of your breast implant procedure. It's crucial to discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon and consider revision surgery only after thorough consultation. Patient satisfaction and achieving your aesthetic goals are important factors to consider.
When should breast implants be replaced?
Silicone implants should be replaced if they rupture or there are signs of leakage, such as changes in breast shape or firmness. Regular MRI screenings can help detect ruptures. Saline implants usually deflate visibly, making it easier to notice when a replacement is necessary.
Choosing the right type of breast implant is a personal decision that should be made after considering factors such as desired aesthetic results, personal preferences, and medical advice. It is important to understand the different types of breast implants available, including saline, silicone, cohesive silicone gel (gummy bear), and ideal implants. Each type has its own unique properties and considerations. Additionally, post-surgery care and maintenance, as well as the possibility of revision surgery or replacement in the future, should be taken into account. If you are considering breast implants, consult with our office today and we will guide you through the process and help you make an informed decision. Remember, your satisfaction and well-being are paramount.
References
Spear, S.L. and Jespersen, M.R., 2010. Breast implants: saline or silicone?. Aesthetic surgery journal, 30(4), pp.557-570.
https://www.plasticsurgery.org/patient-safety/breast-implant-safety