5 Things You Need to Know About Breast Implants

1. A Shape and Size for Everyone

Not all breast implant patients choose to jump from an A cup to a D cup. Many women instead opt for a more modest augmentation. Breast implants come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Implants range in volume from a small 120ml to 850ml. Breast implants come in both round and contoured shapes. Round breast implants have a rounded shape that does not conform to the patient's natural shape. Contoured breast implants contain a more oval shape that looks more natural on the patient. Patients should also keep in mind the texture of the breast implant. Smooth breast implants move around slightly, while textured implants tend to stay in place. Furthermore, textured implants experience fewer cases of ruptures. Once you meet with your plastic surgeon, you'll go over the different sized and shaped breast implants he can use to augment your breasts.

2. Silicone Gets a Green Light

At one time, the FDA banned the use of silicone for breast augmentation surgery. However, subsequent research over a 10-year period showed that silicone is safe to use in breast implants. In November of 2006, the FDA lifted the ban on silicone breast implants and approved them for use in cosmetic surgeries for patients over the age of 22.

3. Saline vs. Silicone

When getting breast implants, you need to choose between either saline or silicone. Although silicone is now approved by the FDA, this type of breast implant still has its drawbacks. Since silicone underwent a ban for 10 years, many plastic surgeons lack experience using this type in augmentation surgery. However, silicone implants have a tendency to look better than saline implants. Many times, patients with saline implants have ripples that can be seen through the skin. Saline breast implants do have one advantage: if ruptured, the body will naturally absorb the saline solution.

4. What Incision Scar?

Breast implants are most often for cosmetic purposes. Due to this fact, plastic surgeons look for ways to make their incisions inconspicuous. They choose areas of the body that hide any scars which may appear after the surgery. Most likely your plastic surgeon will choose one of four areas to make the incision during implant surgery: the nipple, armpit, crease between the breast and your chest, or the belly button.

5. Remember the Risks

Women who undergo breast implant surgery are usually happy with the results. They experience few side effects or discomfort. However, augmentation surgery does have its risks. Breast implant patients can develop complications following the surgery, including an increased risk of infection. Other possible, less common complications include toxic shock syndrome, necrosis and hematoma. In addition, most women with breast implants can not breastfeed.

Last updated on: Nov 18, 2009

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