A breast augmentation is the surgical placement of breast implants. This procedure can be done using breast implants or your own body fat to increase the fullness and size of your breasts, and can enhance your self-image and self-confidence. Breast augmentation continues to be one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures; in 2015, there were about 286,254 procedures performed in the United States.
There are always questions to ask a plastic surgeon during consultation when considering a breast augmentation, such as: what size should I be? Is bigger better? What are the risks? But, one of the most common frequently asked questions is, what type of breast implant should I get?
During this consultation, your board-certified plastic surgeon should tell you that the reason for your breast augmentation should ultimately be a personal decision. The surgery and types of implants you receive will depend on your body’s anatomy, and the look you want to achieve. There are some important factors to keep in mind when undergoing breast augmentation surgery. Your breast implants will depend on these factors:
- Implant profile: How far your implant comes out of your chest
- Implant Shape: round or shaped (contoured)
- Implant size or volume: Size ranges from 120 to 850 cc’s
- Implant type: Silicone, saline, or re-positioned body fat
- Implant Surface: Smooth or with texture
- Implant Placement: This is important, as implants work best in certain places (depends on person)
When choosing the type of implants that you desire, both saline and silicone have their advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal feelings. Here is some info about saline and silicone implants that can help you with a more informed decision:
Saline implants (salt water): Some people say these types of implants have a gummy bear like consistency. Saline implants have an outer silicone shell, and once they are implanted, they are filled with sterile salt water. There are several placement options for saline implants, and they can be filled to the desired amount once they are in place. These implants also require a smaller incision, depending on the placement. If these implants rupture, the salt solution is absorbed by the body and the implant deflates. While this is a very uncommon occurrence, you should visit your surgeon right away if these is an implant rupture.
Silicone Implants: Unlike saline implants, silicone implants are pre-filled with a silicone gel, mimicking the feel of fat. Many people say that these implants tend to feel most like natural breasts, with a firmer feel than saline. Silicone breasts have a variety of sizes to fit your body, and won’t shift around. These implants however, may require a bigger incision than saline ones.
The importance of research is crucial. Your doctor can help you choose the implant and size that is correct for you and your body.
To learn more about the breast augmentation procedure and the types of implants you could choose from, call Atlantic Center Surgery at (954) 983-1899 to request an appointment with Dr. Stelnicki, or request one online.
