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Planning breast augmentation surgery involves careful discussion between patient and surgeon with decisions to be made regarding the type of implants to be used, the degree of enhancement desired, and the positioning of the breast implants. Augmentation is different for every woman just as every woman’s desires and expectations for breast augmentation surgery vary. This makes the rapport between patient and surgeon extremely important to encourage optimum results.
The shape of breast implants can create a significant difference in the end result of breast augmentation surgery.
Round implants are the most popular type of implant as they are beneficial in enhancing the breast size when natural breast volume is already moderate to significant.
Teardrop-shaped (anatomical) implants can provide a good option for those with smaller initial breast volume and are also beneficial in reducing the visibility of implants in the upper portion of the breast.
Although anatomical implants can produce a more natural-looking effect, there is a small risk (1%) of teardrop-shape implants rotating after surgery.
Breast implants' size and shape is not the only decision to be made during pre-surgical consultation.
Breast implants will have either a silicone or saline filling which can create a different look and feel to the breast after augmentation as well as giving rise to differing concerns over safety, deflation, implant palpability, and rippling.
Cohesive silicone gel implants are generally considered of particular benefit to women with small initial breast volume, providing a more natural look and feel than saline breast implants.
Before and after pictures can help provide extra guidance and are sometimes used by surgeons to help during the planning process.
The shell surrounding breast augmentation implants is another choice that needs to be made during pre-surgical consultation. There is a choice between micro-polyurethane coated silicone breast implants and smooth or textured silicone.
There are various advantages to each, with textured implants considered better for reducing the likelihood of capsular contracture and undesirable migration of the implant, whereas smooth implants may offer less likelihood of rippling than textured implants.
Micro-polyurethane coated silicone implants offer the lowest risk of capsular contracture as the breast tissue can actually grow into the coating; this also reduces the risk of rotation.
There are several manufacturers producing breast implants and inevitably after the recent scandal regarding PIP implants there is suspicion about safety. During the consultation it is possible to discuss in more detail the characteristics of the implants in relation to particular manufacturer choices and identify the products that you feel comfortable with.
For additional guidance regarding breast implants and safety aspects, we have added links to additional web resources to the MHRA in the UK and FDA in the US:
Questions? Just ask.
Talk to our helpful team or book a consultation
with Mr Lucian Ion. Call 0207 486 7757
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