How Safe is Breast Augmentation Surgery?
Thousands of American women have made breast augmentation one of the top three cosmetic surgical procedures in the country. But is there safety in those numbers? Here’s a closer look at the procedure.
You Want Fuller, Rounder Breasts, But Which Option is Best for You?
If you’re in the market for a breast augmentation procedure, you may be feeling overwhelmed by the sheer amount of information out there. From implant type to size and shape, there’s a lot to consider before committing to a procedure.
One thing you’ll want for sure is a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Rick J. Smith to perform your procedure. Our team shares this simple primer on breast augmentation choices to help you start thinking about it before you come in to see us.
Implant type: Saline, silicone or fat transfer
The type of implant used depends on a number of factors: Your aesthetic goals, the purpose of the surgery, and any pre-existing health conditions.
Saline implants
Saline implants are silicone sacs filled with sterile saline solution. They’re inserted empty first, and then filled up when they’re securely in place. If your implants are to leak or break, they collapse and your body naturally absorbs the sterile water and removes it as waste. Saline implants are firm and provide a structured shape and feel.
Silicone implants
Silicone implants are popular because they feel very similar to natural breast tissue: The silicone gel is thick and sticky-feeling. This type of implant comes already filled, and is inserted into your breast pocket. If a silicone implant ruptures, it won’t collapse like a saline one will, and you may not be able to tell. Because of this, it’s recommended that you visit us regularly (about once a year) to make sure your implants are still functioning correctly.
Fat transfer implants
Fat transfer implants are usually reserved for patients who want just a modest increase in breast size, and those who have a substantial amount of extra body fat in other areas. Liposuction is used to remove fat from the midsection, buttocks, or thighs, and the fat is inserted into the breast. Because fat transfers use actual body fat, they often produce the most natural-looking results.
Choosing a size
The size you choose is a personal decision, and it varies greatly from patient to patient. Your size depends ultimately on your goals. Dr. Smith can help walk you through the sizing decision.
Ultimately, there is no “right” or “best” type of breast augmentation — every factor depends on you and your goals. When you do decide, it’s important to follow Dr .Smith’s recovery guidelines and check in occasionally to make sure your implants are functioning properly.
If you’re ready to learn more about breast augmentation, call our office in East Lansing, Michigan, or click the button here on the website to request an appointment for a consultation.
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