What Are Breast implants?

Breast enhancement are medical devices that are surgically implanted under the breast tissue or chest muscle to increase breast size or to reconstruct the breast after mastectomy. There are two main types of implants used for augmentation - silicone gel-filled implants and saline-filled implants.

Silicone Gel-filled Breast implants

Silicone gel-filled implants contain a thick, cohesive silicone gel designed to mimic the natural feel of breast tissue. The outer shell of these Breast Implants is made of silicone elastomer, which is a flexible rubber designed not to rupture. Some reputed manufacturers offer silicone implants with textured or rough shell surfaces that reduce the risk of capsular contracture. These implants tend to feel very natural but can develop ripples or wrinkling over time if sized or placed improperly.

Saline-filled Implants

Saline-filled implants contain a saltwater (saline) solution. They have an outer silicone shell filled with sterile saline. These implants are less expensive than silicone gel-filled implants. However, they have a higher risk of deflation or leakage. In case of a rupture, the saline is absorbed safely by the body without causing any harm. The texture of saline implants feels less cohesive than silicone implants.

Other Options
Some other implant options that are available but less commonly used include:

• Round implants: These have a round, smooth shape suited for breast augmentation.

• Anatomical implants: Available in a teardrop shape, anatomical implants are designed to maintain a more natural shape of the breast.

• Gummy bear breast enhancement: Developed more recently, these implants aim to have a very soft, natural feel and appearance like breast tissue itself.

Implant Placement and Sizes

Implants are generally inserted through an incision either around the perimeter of the areola (periareolar), underneath the breast in the inframammary crease, or in the armpit (transaxillary). The plastic surgeon selects the best implant size based on chest structure, desired levels of augmentation, and aesthetic goals. Implants come in a variety of profiles and volumes ranging usually from 125CC to 800CC or larger.

Potential Benefits of Breast Augmentation

• Enhanced proportions and contours
• Boosted self-esteem and confidence
• Restored breast volume after weight changes or pregnancy
• Regained femininity and shape after mastectomy

Potential Risks and Complications
While breast enhancement are generally safe, some potential risks include:

• Capsular contracture: Scar tissue forms around the implant causing discomfort and breast hardness in 10-20% of cases.

• Rupture: Implants have a 2-3% risk per year of leaking or rupturing, especially over 10+ years.

• Rippling and wrinkling: Over time, implants may develop visible ripples under the skin's surface in some cases.

• Unusual scar formation: Abnormal or wide scarring occurs in around 5% of augmentation patients.

• Reactions: Very rarely, breast enhancement can trigger autoimmune or inflammatory reactions like breast implant illness.

• Revisional surgery: Further procedures may be needed to replace or reposition implants during the patient’s lifetime.

Assessing Your Candidacy and Finding a Surgeon

To determine if you are a candidate for breast augmentation, consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon. A consultation will involve discussing your goals, medical history, lifestyle habits, and completing a physical exam. Ensure your surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and ideally has extensive experience performing breast augmentations. Ask about specific techniques, their revision and complication rates. Thoroughly research reviews online to help find the best local surgeon for your needs.

Recovery and Long-Term Care

Implant recovery takes about 1-2 weeks for swelling to go down. Most patients can resume light activity in 1-2 weeks and strenuous exercise in 3-4 weeks. Long-term care involves yearly follow-up checks, self-examination for implant changes, and avoiding trauma or blows to the chest area. With proper care, breast enhancement can last 10-20 years depending on the material but may need replacing later in life.

As a highly popular cosmetic procedure, breast augmentation can boost confidence and enhance appearance as long as patient expectations are realistic. Seeking an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon, considering risks carefully, and continuing long-term follow-up care are important for optimal results and safety with implants. With the right approach, implants can provide many women with years of satisfaction from their results.

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