If you’re thinking about breast augmentation surgery, one of the most important decisions you’ll need to make involves the selection of the implant itself. You’ll need to talk with your cosmetic surgeon about the type of implant — silicone or saline, as well as the implant’s size and shape.
There is no one-size-fits-all implant, and each woman has her own vision of what she wants from her breast augmentation. Your surgeon will talk with you about certain factors that may affect your implant choice, including your skin elasticity, body type, the look you want to achieve, the size of your breasts currently, and your lifestyle. The good news is, there are many different implants available to suit nearly every woman and her preferences.
Breast implants are made of silicone or saline, and come in many different shapes and sizes. If you’re wondering what might be right for you, here are a few things to keep in mind when you’re doing your research:
- The majority of women choose silicone because of its more realistic and natural feel. Most patients report that the silicone gel feels more like natural breast tissue than the liquid inside saline implants.
- One of the advantages of saline implants is that your surgeon can use a smaller incision. The empty implant shell is inserted into the breast, and then it is filled with saline after insertion.
- If a saline implant were to rupture, you would know immediately because the liquid would leak, causing your breast to decrease in size and shape almost immediately. Silicone implants, on the other hand, can develop a leak and you may not be aware of it for months or years. To detect leaks with silicone implants, most patients get MRI tests done every two years. Remember, you need to see your cosmetic surgeon for follow-up visits as recommended with both types of implants.
- Your surgeon can help you “try on” different implant sizes and shapes so you can get an idea of what size you need. Sometimes, women are surprised that the cup size they thought they wanted isn’t necessarily the best fit for their figure. It’s best to keep an open mind and try on various sizes until you’re happy with what you see.
- For women who are looking for a smaller increase in size, and don’t wish to have implants, a breast fat transfer is an excellent option. This procedure uses injections of your body’s own natural fat, and you get the added advantage of losing some fat in another area, such as your abdomen.
You and your surgeon can discuss the pros and cons of each implant type and procedure to help you feel confident in your decision. The size and shape of your breasts is part of your body’s unique shape, and it’s your personal decision to make.
Is breast augmentation surgery right for you? Download our free e-book, A Patient’s Guide to Breast Augmentation, to learn more about this procedure. You can also request a free consultation online, or call GLOW Surgical Arts at (650) 241-2209.