If you’re just starting to research breast augmentation, you might be a bit overwhelmed by the amount of information involved. What’s the best incision location? Should breast implants be placed over or under the muscle? And then there are the breast implants themselves. How do you know what size to choose? What types of breast implants are there?
In answering questions about breast implants, it’s necessary to describe what occurs during breast augmentation surgery and what to expect after the procedure. After reading this post, you should feel confident in making informed decisions about your breast augmentation procedure.
You can also watch this video to learn more about your options when choosing breast implants.
Breast Implant FAQ
What are the different types of breast implants?
Breast implants are silicone shells filled with either a saline solution or silicone gel. Silicone gel implants offer several options based on the gel’s cohesiveness or gumminess. In the US, about 85% of breast augmentation patients choose some type of silicone gel implant. The most cohesive silicone gel implants are sometimes called gummy bear implants, even though true gummy bear devices are teardrop-shaped and no longer available.
How long do breast implants last?
Breast augmentation patients often ask if implants need to be replaced after 10 years. I tell them that implants are not batteries and don’t need to be replaced on a specific timetable. Implants can last much longer than 10 years, and if you’re comfortable with the appearance of your breasts and the implants remain intact, there is no reason to replace or remove them.
Can you tell if an implant ruptures?
You’ll know almost immediately if a saline implant leaks because your breast will appear deflated. If you have a cohesive silicone gel implant that ruptures, you may not notice because the implant retains its shape. This is called a “silent rupture.” Silicone gel implant manufacturers recommend getting imaging tests starting 5 years after your breast augmentation procedure. We have a high-resolution ultrasound machine in our office for this purpose. An MRI test is another option but is much less practical for cosmetic patients. Our high-resolution ultrasound device looks at the surface of the implant and checks it for integrity. It can also look in the space right next to the implant.
How do you choose the size of breast implants?
Most of my breast augmentation patients say they want results that look natural. The overall goal of cosmetic breast surgery is creating harmony of the breasts, meaning the relationship between the nipple, breast mound, and the crease at the base of the breast is aesthetically pleasing. Size is one factor in creating that harmony, but it’s not the only one. An implant’s profile is equally important. “Implant profile” refers to how much the implant projects from the patient’s chest when seen from the side.
Where do you place implants?
During breast augmentation surgery, I create a pocket for the implant. That pocket may be behind the existing breast tissue, behind the tissue and the muscle fascia, or under the tissue and muscle. Patients with little tissue or thin breast skin benefit from having implants placed behind the muscle because this minimizes the risk of visible rippling. I help patients decide which location is best for them. You can learn more about breast augmentation in our previous blog post.
How much are breast implants?
The cost of breast implants varies, depending on the brand and type of implant. Saline implants are less expensive than silicone gel implants, but most patients say the silicone options look and feel more like natural breasts.
How much do breast implants weigh?
An average 300cc breast implant weighs about half of a pound. It’s rare for a woman to have concerns about the weight of her breasts after getting implants. The only exception might be a thin woman who chooses to get very large implants.
Are breast implants safe now?
Patient safety is my priority, and I take concerns about the safety of breast implants very seriously. The FDA has approved both saline and silicone gel breast implants, and ongoing studies continue monitoring their safety. During consultations I ensure that patients are fully informed about the potential risks and complications involved with breast augmentation.
As one of the leading breast augmentation specialists in the nation, Dr. Colville sees patients who travel from Ann Arbor, MI, and throughout the region to have him perform their procedures at our Toledo, OH, practice. If you’re thinking about getting breast implants, contact us using the online form to request a personal consultation with Dr. Colville or call (419) 534-6551 to schedule an appointment.
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