Breast Augmentation: Making the Implant Choice
Breast augmentation today offers more choices than ever before. Implants now come in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials, allowing us to customize the implant to the unique size and desired outcome of each individual patient. When you make the decision to have breast augmentation surgery, you next step will be to select the implant that will fit your needs best.
Saline Implants
Saline implants have been approved by the FDA for use in patients 18 and over. These implants feature a silicone shell that is filled with a sterile saline solution after they are placed into the breast pocket. This process allows the surgeon to make minor size adjustments during surgery to ensure the best possible results. Saline implants have the benefit of a smaller incision, since they can be filled inside the breast. However, these implants have a higher risk of rupture than their silicone counterparts, which can create distortion in the appearance of the breast.
Silicone Implants
Silicone implants are approved for patients age 21 and over. These implants also feature a silicone shell, but are also filled with a silicone material that tends to be more stable than saline. Many women prefer the look and feel of silicone implants, but there are a few drawbacks. Because silicone implants come pre-filled, incisions to place these implants are usually longer. However, these implants tend to have a lower risk of rupture, capsular contracture and visible breast rippling.
Cohesive Gel Implants
Cohesive gel implants, also known as form stable implants or “gummy bear” implants, are the latest type of silicone implants to come on the market. These implants got their nickname from their cohesive texture that resembles the gummy bear candy. With a look and feel that most closely resembles natural breast tissue, these implants have quickly become a popular choice for many female patients.
Sizes, Shapes and Profiles
In addition to choosing the type of implant you want, you will also need to decide on the shape, size (round or teardrop) and profile (projection). At Ocean Plastic Surgery, we understand the many choices you are facing can be overwhelming and we will work closely with you to help you select the implants that will offer the best possible look for you. Dr. Small will also discuss placement of your implant, over or behind the chest muscle, to create the most natural results.
Lessen your anxiety by being able to see your “ before and after” results with Vectra 3 D Imaging. During your consult our nurse will take a 3 dimensional photograph which can be used to simulate your results with all of the implants mentioned. We can also simulate what a breast lift and implant look like as well !
If you are interested in breast augmentation, we can help. Contact Ocean Plastic Surgery at (732) 255-7155 to schedule your private consultation with Dr. Small today.