AESTHETIC NEWS
What are breast implants really like? Do they affect breast cancer diagnosis? And what the heck is a gummy bear implant? These are just a few of the questions that many people want to know about breast augmentation. If you’re thinking about having plastic surgery, there are no silly or embarrassing questions. Your plastic surgeon wants to make sure you’re fully informed and completely confident with your choice before moving forward with the breast augmentation procedure.
Silicone and saline are the two primary types of implants, but there are different subtypes within these categories. For either type of implant, you can choose from round and teardrop-shaped implants. Most women choose round implants because, when lying down, they “settle” easily and look more natural. However, teardrop implants are preferred by some patients due to their anatomical concerns. Women who feel they have an atypical shape of breast may prefer teardrop implants to fill out certain areas and to project the breast better.
Saline implants are inserted “deflated.” Once they’re in, the plastic surgeon fills them with sterile saline solution to achieve the desired volume. Silicone implants have silicone gel, which helps to give women a natural feel and look.
A third type is the gummy bear implant, which is a thicker silicone gel that holds its shape well, and isn’t likely to ripple or rotate.
Yes, but it’s not likely because radiologists know how to work around the implant. Implants that are inserted behind the muscle do not interfere with the images, although the radiologist will need to take extra views. It’s more likely that you’ll also need an ultrasound or an MRI for added clarity. Women should look for a medical imaging facility with experience in this area, and they should always inform the radiologist that they have implants.
This is the question that women often spend the most time thinking about. Take all the time you need to come to a decision. Ask the plastic surgeon for sample implants. Bring a sports bra to your consult, and add the samples to your bra to compare them.
You can even create your own samples at home to try them out for a while. Measure out volumes of dried rice or quinoa to mimic various implant sizes. Put the grain in sacks of cheesecloth or a similar material. Wear a sports bra stuffed with the “implants” to evaluate your preferences.
Implants aren’t intended to be permanent, but they should last for quite a long time. If an implant ruptures, you’ll need revision breast surgery to remove and replace it, but this isn’t as common as you might think. Most breast implant revisions are performed because the patient decides she wants a larger or smaller implant.
Dr. Loeb of Manhattan is a widely sought-after, board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in natural-looking breast augmentation and lifts. You’re invited to schedule a confidential, one-on-one consult with Dr. Loeb in his NYC office. Dr. Loeb strongly emphasizes the importance of patient education, and will thoroughly answer all of your questions.
