Stephanie DeSimone, PA-C
Stephanie DeSimone, PA-C
SILICONE AND SALINE BREAST IMPLANTS
There are two different types of FDA approved breast implants, silicone and saline. In 1992, the FDA issued a ban on silicone implants after complaints of illness and ruptured implants. After a comprehensive evaluation of the evidence for the Association of Silicon Breast Implants with human health conditions, the Institute of Medicine concluded in 2005 that there is "no definitive evidence linking breast implants to cancer, neurological diseases, neurological problems or other systemic diseases." Since then, silicone implants have been made available again for breast augmentation surgery.
SILICONE BREAST IMPLANTS
Many women feel that silicone implants look and feel more natural, plus the silicone implants are less likely to show rippling, which can be a concern in very thin individuals. Also, because the silicone material is thicker than saline, it tends to hold its position more firmly.
Still, many women are unsettled about the silicon implant's controversial start, and opt for saline.
SALINE BREAST IMPLANTS
The saline solution is very fluid, which some women prefer. The fluidity allows the breast to easily adapt back to its natural shape, and saline implants do not pose a health risk if an implant should rupture. The salt water solution is simply dissolved by the body.
A disadvantage is that saline implants are more likely to show ripples, or the implant itself may appear less natural in small-breasted or reconstructive patients. This is especially important for very thin women who have little breast tissue to cover the implant, or for women who have a breast injury or need breast reconstruction. The small ripples in the implant may be more likely to show through the skin in these women.
DECIDING WHICH IMPLANT IS BEST FOR YOU
In your initial consultation at the Lombardi Plastic Surgery Center, your jersey shore cosmetic surgeon will evaluate your health and explain which surgical techniques are most appropriate for you, based on the condition of your breasts and skin tone. Your lifestyle as well as the shape and appearance you desire will help determine which implant will be best suited for your body.
If your breasts are sagging, your doctor may also recommend a breast lift.
Be sure to discuss your expectations with your surgeon. He or she should be equally candid with you, describing your alternatives and the risks and limitations of each. And, be sure to tell your surgeon if you smoke, and if you're taking any medications, vitamins, or other drugs.
OVER THE MUSCLE OR UNDER THE MUSCLE
Placement of the breast implant largely depends on your anatomy as well as the type of shape you desire.
Placing the implant over the pectoralis muscle of the chest results in a full and more round look of the breast. This look is considered by some to be 'unnatural looking'; however many patients desire this final result.
Placing the implant under the pectoralis muscle results in a more natural look and feel. This is a very difficult technique to master and not all plastic surgeons are comfortable performing this procedure. When the implant is placed under the muscle, patients realize many benefits such as a softer and more natural look, unobstructed mammograms, and less visibility and feel of the implant's edges.
Your plastic surgeon at the Lombardi Plastic Surgery Center will discuss all of the advantages and disadvantages of breast implant placement with you during your consultation.
The method of inserting your implant will depend on your anatomy and your surgeon's recommendation. The incision can be made either in the crease where the breast meets the chest, around the areola (the dark skin surrounding the nipple), or in the axilla. Every effort will be made to assure that the incision is placed so resulting scars will be as inconspicuous as possible. Working through the incision, the surgeon will lift your breast tissue and skin to create a pocket, either directly behind the breast tissue or underneath your chest wall muscle (the pectoral muscle). The implants are then centered beneath your nipples.
The surgery usually takes one to two hours to complete. Stitches are used to close the incisions, which may also be taped for greater support. A gauze bandage may be applied over your breasts to help with healing. You should be able to return to work within a few days, depending on the level of activity required for your job. Follow your surgeon's advice on when to begin exercises and normal activities.
For many women, the result of Breast Augmentation can be very satisfying, even exhilarating, as they learn to appreciate their fuller appearance.
If you are considering Breast Augmentation let one of the experienced plastic surgeons at the Lombardi Plastic Surgery Center in NJ review the procedure with you and help you make an informed decision.
If you have questions, we are happy to help. Call us in Monmouth County at 732-460-9555.