Breast implant cosmetic surgery involves increasing the size of the breast by using artificial implants. It is also known by the name of breast augmentation surgery which closely refers to its cosmetic appeal. It could be used for breast reconstruction in patients suffering from breast cancer.
There are two different types of breast implants. A saline implant consists of a capsule filled with saline solution (salt water). A silicone implant is one in which the capsule is filled with silicone or plastic gel. In the case of silicone implants, the capsule is pre-filled to a standard size by the manufacturers before it is supplied for surgical use. Saline implants are filled during cosmetic surgery by using a small incision. The solution is filled in a controlled manner until the desired shape is formed.
There are advantages and disadvantages to both types of breast implants. Silicone implants are known for their natural feel, but a rupture can be hard to identify. The shape of saline implants can be controlled during the surgery, but irregularities after a rupture will be more pronounced. When saline implants rupture, the solution is naturally absorbed by the body without any side effects.
Recovery and risk related to breast implant cosmetic surgery
Pain, uneasiness and other minor risks are common to both types of implants. Saline implants will become flattened after a rupture as the saline solution quickly leaks out of the capsule and gets absorbed into the body. Irregularities in breast shape will be drastic in such conditions. Besides, saline implants don’t feel comfortable or natural for most patients.
Ruptured silicone implants do not cause excessive leakage as the hard plastic gel will remain in the capsule for a long time even after rupture. It is hard to detect a rupture in silicone implants. They may pose serious complications if left unattended for a long time. For safety, ruptured implants must be immediately removed or replaced. The absence of conclusive evidence caused silicone implants to be banned for a decade, but further scientific studies and research have proven that both silicone and saline implants do not pose serious damage to the body. It is essential to follow the advice and instructions of the plastic surgeon to recover safely from the surgery.
Safety with implants is further enhanced by imposing certain requirements for patients to qualify for breast implant surgery. In cosmetic augmentation, saline implants are allowed only for patients above the age of 18 and silicone implants for those above 22. In reconstruction surgery, both types of implants are allowed for patients of all ages.
Breast Augmentation FAQ
General FAQ
If you are looking for a reliable and experienced cosmetic surgeon in Bethesda, Northern Virginia, Chevy Chase, Rockville, and surrounding regions, you can contact Dr. Franklin D. Richards and Dr. A. Dean Jabs.
If you would like to learn more about plastic surgery procedures performed by Plastic Surgeons Franklin D. Richards, M.D. and A. Dean Jabs, M.D. please visit https://cosmeticplastics.com/ or http://breastaugmentationmd.com/ Serving patients in and around Northern Virginia, Maryland, Washington DC, McLean, Bethesda, Fairfax County, Rockville, Alexandria, Chevy Chase, and Potomac.
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Board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Richards, Dr. Jabs, and Dr. Magge lead Cosmetic Surgery Associates in Bethesda, MD. They specialize in personalized cosmetic procedures delivered with exceptional skill and care, helping every patient look and feel their best.
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