What are Breast Implants?

Breast implants are medical devices that are surgically implanted under the breast tissue or chest wall muscle to increase breast size or to restore breast tissue that has been lost due to various conditions such as breast cancer or trauma. Breast implants are not meant to replace breastfeeding. There are two main types of breast implants that are commonly used - saline breast implants filled with sterile saltwater and silicone breast implants filled with silicone gel. Both saline and silicone implants are encased in a silicone shell that forms the overall shape and size of the implant.

Reasons for Choosing Breast Implants

Breast Implants are several reasons why a woman may consider breast augmentation surgery through implants. For some, it is to increase their physical confidence and self-esteem through augmented breast size. Others opt for it after pregnancy or significant weight changes lead to changes in breast shape and size. Breast implants may also be chosen by women who undergo mastectomy as part of breast cancer treatment to rebuild breast volume or for reconstruction after other conditions that affect breast shape. Some patients seek implants purely for cosmetic augmentation to enlarge breasts.

Breast Implant Types

As mentioned before, the two main types of implants are silicone gel-filled and saline-filled. Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater while silicone implants contain cohesive silicone gel. Saline implants tend to be firmer while silicone implants typically feel more natural. Textured implants are also available in both types to reduce the risks of capsular contracture. Options for implant shape include round and tear-drop shaped, with the latter projecting less beneath the skin for a more natural look. Implant size is another consideration, ranging anywhere between under 200cc to 800cc or more depending on the patient's goals and anatomy.

Surgical Procedure for Implant Placement

The procedure for breast augmentation involves making an incision at one of three site locations - under the breast in the inframammary crease, around the nipple in a periareolar incision, or in the armpit area in an axillary incision. Dissection is then done to create a pocket either beneath the breasts orchest wall muscles. Saline implants can be filled after insertion while silicone implants come pre-filled. Drains may be placed and the incision is closed with sutures or surgical tape. Patients are usually under general anesthesia for the 1-2 hour outpatient procedure. Recovery ranges from a few days to 2 weeks depending on the individual.

Risks and Complications of Breast Implants

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved with breast augmentation. One common complication is capsular contracture, where the breast pocket tightens and feels hard or painful. This occurs in about 10-20% of cases. Another risk is implant rupture, which has a 1-2% annual incidence. Other less common risks include infection, hematoma, scarring issues, asymmetry, and implant malposition or displacement over time. There have also been rare associations with autoimmune or connective tissue diseases but conclusive evidence is still limited. Implant removal or revision surgery may be needed to address complications. Long-term implant wear can also result in changes to breast shape and droopiness over 10-15 years.

Living with Breast Implants

Women who have augmentation with implants will need to follow up periodically with their surgeon even after surgery. Clinical breast exams, implant history tracking through warranty cards, and MRI screenings every 2-3 years are typically recommended for implant integrity monitoring and to check for silent rupture. Mammograms may require special techniques to avoid implant distortion. Activities like breastfeeding, chest trauma, and air travel should also be discussed. Patients must also be aware implants don't last forever and additional surgeries may be needed to repair or replace them. Overall, breast implants can achieve the desired cosmetic goals when performed properly but also require an ongoing, long-term commitment for optimal care and safety.

Should You Get Breast Implants?

In the end, the decision to undergo breast augmentation with implants is a highly personal one that depends on an individual's surgical and health risks, physical and psychological goals, recovery needs, and long-term acceptance of living with implants. It is important for any potential patient to extensively research the procedure and discuss risks and expectations thoroughly with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Women should also explore whether other nonsurgical options like breast lifts may better treat issues with sagging or loss of volume before deciding on implants. With proper education and realistic expectations, breast implants can enhance self-esteem in carefully selected patients. However, they also involve lifelong surveillance and potential future costs. Overall satisfaction depends more on seeking the procedure for the right reasons rather than unrealistic ideals of physical perfection.
 

From implant types and surgical details to risks, aftercare needs, and the long-term ramifications of living with these medical devices, there is much to weigh before undergoing augmentation mammoplasty. With open communication between patients and their surgeons, breast implants have the potential to safely and positively impact quality of life when the choice is made with full awareness and commitment to lifelong implant surveillance and care.

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