Breast Implants: Everything You Need To Know
Breast implants, also known as, ‘Augmentation Mammoplasty’ is a surgical method to increase the breast size. Many of the women consider it as a way to build self-esteem or feel confident about their posture.
The treatment aims to fix the sagging or drooping by removing the excess skin or tissues. It involves repositioning the areola higher on the chest and gives natural-looking results.
If you are also considering this procedure, but simply thinking where to start, here is everything you should know-
Why Should You Opt For Breast Implants?
Generally, a breast augmentation is done to:
- Enlarge the breast size and enhance the appearance.
- Restore the breast shape after weight loss, pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
- Regain the symmetry if the breasts are asymmetrical.
- Restore the youthful shape after any surgery.
Besides, breast implants are also done as a part of the treatment for breast cancer.
What Are The Various Types Of Breast Implants?
Breast implant or augmentation is a medical prosthesis placed inside the breasts to reconstruct the physical form of the breasts. Typically, there are three main types of breast implants-
Saline Implants
These are filled with a sterile saline solution, such as saltwater. This solution is held in an elastomer silicone shell. Depending upon the requirement, these implants are filled with different amounts of solution to restore the firmness and shape of the breasts.
In case the implants get leaked, the body will absorb and expel the solution naturally.
Silicone-Gel Implants
These contain an outer shell filled with silicone gel. If this type of implant leaks, the gel either stays in the shell or escapes into the implant pocket. However, a leaking silicone-gel implant is less likely to collapse.
A Piece Of Advice: If you choose this type of implant, make sure to consider regular checkups with the doctor. He’ll carry out an ultrasound scan or MRI to examine the condition of the implants.
Besides these two types, there are alternative composite breast implants that are filled with soy oil, polypropylene string, or other similar material.
What Can You Expect From The Surgery?
As breast augmentation is a type of surgery, you need to think carefully before opting for it. Discuss your goals with the surgeon; he’ll help you to choose the right size of implant you need. However, you need to be realistic about your goals!
Incision
Several incision options are available such as:
- Trans-axillary incision (done in the armpit).
- Peri-areolar incision (done around the nipples).
- Infra-mammary incision (done under the breast).
The type of incision your surgeon recommends depends upon several factors such as the type of implant, degree of enlargement involved, anatomy, etc.
Implant Placement
The implants are inserted into a pocket in two types. One is a sub-muscular placement that goes under the pectoral muscle. And, the other is the sub-mammary placement that goes over the pectoral muscle.
Recovery
As the anesthesia wears off, you’ll be given pain killers for relief. The doctor may advise you some exercises such as moving the arms to get comfort.
You are likely to experience swelling or soreness a few weeks after the surgery. There might be scars that fade over time but don’t disappear completely.
If you experience redness or warmth in the area, consult the surgeon as soon as possible. You should avoid any type of strenuous activity for at least two weeks after the surgery.
Are You The Right Candidate For Breast Implants?
If you have sagging breasts, asymmetrical, or uneven breasts, you can consider this surgery. However, there are certain things that can deter a surgeon from performing the procedure. For example, you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or nursing.
Unrealistic expectations may also prevent surgeons from carrying out the method.
Find a board-certified plastic surgeon and discuss all your queries beforehand so that you may not get disappointed with the results.