Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure performed to enhance a woman's breast size or shape.
During the procedure a silicone shelled implant is placed behind each breast.
All implants have an outer silicon shell, and are either filled with silicone or a saline/salt-water solution.
1.
Why would someone elect to have a breast augmentation procedure performed? Breast augmentation is performed for a variety of reasons, and offers different risks and benefits for different people.
A woman may choose to have this procedure to enhance the contour of her body with breast enlargement, she may want to reduce her breast size after pregnancy, or she may need to balance breast sizes as a reconstructive technique in response to a pre-existing condition.
2.
What is the difference between silicon and saline breast implants? The major differences between these two types of breast implants are; the material inside the implant, the consistency of each material, and the health risks associated with an implant rupture.
a).
Saline implants are filled with a saline solution and are usually filled at the time of the procedure, while silicone implants are pre-filled with silicon gel and inserted during the procedure.
b).
Some patients have complained that saline implants feel hard and less natural feeling, while silicone implants are reported to more closely mimic the consistency of natural human fat.
c).
If a saline breast implant ruptures the health risks are low, but the breast will deflate and a new implant will need to replace the remaining silicone shell.
If a silicone breast implant ruptures, it may not be detected immediately and leak into the body.
A ruptured silicone implant could cause pain and health problems if left untreated.
3.
What are the risks associated with breast augmentation? There are a variety of risks associated with this procedure, and each individual must carefully weigh the risk and reward associated with each procedure.
While many patients expect to deal with pain and recovery time, many are surprised at the long-term effects this procedure can have.
a).
Breast augmentation can cause a permanent change in the sensation experienced from the breasts or nipples.
b).
Risk of infection; while not common this risk is real and should be taken seriously.
C).
Each woman's body heals differently and while some breasts heal with little issue, other women can experience scar tissue which distorts the shape of the breasts.
In some cases, breast implants immediately lead to additional surgeries.
4.
Are there any other types of breast augmentation? Yes, there is a newer type of breast implant called a "gummy bear implant.
" The implant is made of silicone gel, but is a more cohesive version that maintains shape more effectively over time.
Unfortunately, these implants are only available to patients participating in clinical trials.
5.
What else should I consider before getting breast augmentation? a).
Breast implants don't come with a lifetime guarantee; you will likely need some type of surgery later on, whether it be to repair or remove your existing breast implants.
b).
Breast implants can interfere with breastfeeding; some women have problems producing appropriate levels of breast milk after breast augmentation.
C).
Breast implants may prevent you from properly screening for breast cancer because they may interfere with mammograms, and may produce results difficult to interpret.
Understanding the risks and benefits associated with breast augmentation will enable you to make the right decision for your situation.
Breast augmentation is a serious procedure that must be considered carefully, but also a procedure, which can improve quality of life for many people.
Talk with your physician if you are considering cosmetic surgery.