Choosing the Right Breast Implants
Millions of women across the country desiring bigger breasts undergo breast augmentation surgery. Choosing breast implants is an important decision that should be thoroughly discussed during a consultation with your plastic surgeon.
Types of Implants
Breast implants are comprised of either one of two types of compounds: silicone gel or saline solution. In addition to these two traditional breast implant types, there is also a newer style known as ‘cohesive gel’ or “gummy bear implants.” Breast implants made of silicone are commonly perceived as feeling more natural. However, if the implant were to rupture and leak, it may be hazardous to the woman’s health. Breast implants made of saline solution may not look and feel as natural and realistic as silicone, but it is generally regarded as the safer option. Cohesive gel implants use a gel that is closer to a solid than a liquid, which comes with both advantages and disadvantages that should be discussed with your surgeon. The firm gel can better withstand the effects of gravity, but can make the breasts look unnatural or feel too firm.
Breast Implant Sizes
Deciding between saline implants versus silicone implants is not the only choice to make when it comes to breast augmentation. You also need to make a decision as to what cup size you want your new breasts to be. When it comes to measuring the size of breast implants, you don’t refer to cup sizes, but cubic centimeters (cc). Measuring based on volume yields more precise breast implant sizes. There is no equivalent cup size that corresponds to each cc, simply because the pre-surgery size of your breasts contributes to your new size after surgery.
It is perfectly natural to have some reservations when it comes to deciding what size of breast implants to choose. A number of women are concerned that by taking on a much larger size, the change will be too obvious. For this reason, many surgeons might recommend that their patients don’t consider increasing the size of their bust by more than two or three cups.
Implant Texture
Another option with breast implants is whether you want a surface that is textured or smooth. On average, implants that are textured are at a higher risk of rupturing. On the other hand, the textured surface helps the breast tissue adhere to the implant, reducing the risk that the implant will rotate in the chest. A textured surface is also believed to reduce the risk of capsular contracture, a relatively uncommon side effect. Textured implants also tend to lead to results that look and feel more realistic.
Breast Implant Shapes
Yet another choice to be made is the shape of the implant. Round implants remain a popular choice, however they tend to yield a less natural look. You can opt for teardrop-shaped implants instead, as many women find these to look more realistic. These are also known as contoured implants because they take into consideration the natural curves of a woman’s body. There are implants that are relatively flat, while others have a rounder profile, so they project from the body further.
It’s important not to feel that these decisions must be made entirely on your own. It is highly recommended that you discuss the pros and cons the various breast implants in a consultation with your surgeon. Regardless of which options you choose, the key to a successful breast augmentation surgery is to establish open communication with your surgeon and to take your surgeon’s recommendations seriously. If you can communicate your concerns and your expectations with your surgeon, then he or she can help you select the right breast implants for your situation.