Choosing to have a breast implant is a decision you should not take lightly. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast implants generally need to be restructured or replaced every 10 to 15 years, this should be kept in consideration regarding the age and health of the patient. Breast implants can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $10,000, depending on geographical location and surgeon specialty.
Types
According to the Mayo Clinic, there are two main types of breast implants available, saline and silicone-gel filled. The implant is composed of a shell, a filler and a patch. The shell holds the filler inside, while the patch covers the hole and allows for adjustment as needed. Implants are generally compromised of a silicone exterior but the filler can be saline or silicone filled. Silicone implants have long strands of silicone inside, along with silica and other materials. Saline-filled implants contain a sterile saline solution and can be filled throughout and after surgery.
Size
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons recommends that you discuss the size of the implant with your doctor. The best size depends on the overall shape of the body and how much weight will be added. Sizes range between 120 to 850 cc in volume. Another thing to take into consideration is if the implants will protrude, how far and how they will ultimately affect the spine and posture. Some women prefer to just reshape their breasts after having a baby, while others wish to increase several sizes for cosmetic purposes.
Shape
There are generally two different shapes to breast implants, round and shaped, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Round implants are geared toward those who are looking for a larger, bolder effect. Breasts are pronounced and range in several sizes that can change the overall appearance quickly. Shaped implants tend to be slightly flatter all the way around but can be adjustable, depending on what the patient is looking for. Choosing between a smooth or textured surface implant should also be taken into consideration.
Placement
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons notes there are generally three main locations that an implant may be directly placed. These include subglandular, partial submuscular and complete submuscular. Subglandular implants are placed under the tissue of the breast and above the muscles. Partial submuscular implants are placed just under the breast tissue but under the pectoral and chest muscles. A complete submuscular means that the implants are positioned under the chest and pectoral muscles.
Risks and Side Effects
As with any cosmetic surgery, there are some risks involved. According to the FDA, infection during or after breast implant surgery is the main risk. Any type of discharge, pain or redness should be reported to the doctor along with follow-up care. The breasts can also not set or take form the way intended. They could bottom out, where the implant lays low and the nipple points upward or symmastia could develop. Symmastia is where the breasts appear to be too close together and requires restructuring to fix. A capsular contraction is where as the body heals a capsule of fluid accumulates around the breast and ultimately compressing the implant and causing distortion.
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