Breast Implants – An Overview

Cosmetic surgery that involves insertion of implants to enhance the size of a woman’s breasts is called breast augmentation – known in medical terms as augmentation mammoplasty.

There are two kinds of commonly used breast implants – silicone gel-based and saline ones. The third kind of breast implant, called ‘gummy bear’ in popular usage, was approved by the FDA in 2013. Saline breast implants, made of saltwater, which is sterile, are inserted empty into an incision made by your plastic surgeon; the water is filled later. A silicone breast implant has a gel which gives the feel of human fat and is the more popular choice among women who want a natural look for their breasts.

The gummy bear is the latest type of silicone implant used in breast augmentation by your plastic surgeon – what sets it apart from the earlier silicone implants is that the gel is more firm and cohesive.

Before you decide on the right kind of breast implants, you will need to consult your plastic surgeon on the procedure, risks, post-operative care and costs involved. Cosmetic surgeon at Newport Plastic, Dr Hisham Seify is an expert in the field and you could seek an appointment with him at his facilities in Newport Beach, Orange County, CA.

Breast implant surgery

The procedure involves making incisions in one of these areas:

• Underneath the breast – at the fold
• The nipple area – more precisely the region that comprises the areola and the nipple
• Under the arms.
• In the belly button region.

After the incision is made and the breast implant is inserted, the cut is sutured up, and you will be given a surgical bra and other dressings.

Breast augmentation surgery only increases the size of the breast, but doesn’t correct sagging of the breast. If you want to add fullness and a lift to your breast, your plastic surgeon may recommend a breast lift surgery that is done along with breast augmentation or at a separate date.

Post-surgery

It will take at least ten to twelve weeks before your implants finally get set and positioned in the breasts. You will have to continue wearing surgical bras for at least four weeks after your plastic surgery – but this depends on the speed of healing and you should consult your plastic surgeon  before shifting to regular bras.

It is also important to schedule regular follow-up visits to your center  to get your breasts examined.

Costs involved

The cost of surgery depends on many variable factors – the location of your facility, the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia charges and other amenities provided by your center. Insurance may not be an option because breast augmentation is considered a plastic surgery performed for cosmetic reasons and not for medical/health issues. However, financing options are available, and you could borrow loans at low-interest rates. Your cosmetic surgeon and his office may be able to help you out with financing because they usually work with a set of companies to provide such options for those who may have to rely on external funding.