If you’re considering breast implants, it’s important to understand what they are and what they can do for you. Breast implants are simply defined as medical devices that are placed under the skin of the breast to increase its size or to restore its shape after mastectomy or injury. There are a variety of implant types available, and your surgeon will help you choose the one that’s right for you.
Breast implants are not lifetime devices, and it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and complications associated with them. Be sure to consider these risks with your surgeon before making a decision.
If you’re considering breast implants, here’s what you need to know.
What are breast implants made of?
Breast implants are made of silicone or saline (salt water). They’re placed under the skin of your breast, either above or below the chest muscle.
What are the benefits of breast implants?
There is a range of reasons why women get breast implants. Some women feel self-conscious about their smaller breasts and want to increase their size. Others have lost breast volume after pregnancy or weight loss and want to restore their breasts to their original size or shape. And still, others have had surgery to remove one or both breasts (mastectomy) as a treatment for breast cancer. Breast implants can help these women feel whole and feminine again.
In addition, breast implants can be used to reconstruct the breasts after mastectomy or injury.
Breast implants can:
– Increase fullness and projection of your breasts
– Improve the symmetry of your breasts
– Restore your breasts to their original size or shape after mastectomy or injury
– Enhance your self-image and confidence
What are the risks and complications of breast implants?
Risks and complications of breast implants include:
– Breast implant rupture
– Capsular contracture
– Implant deflation
– Infection
– Changes in nipple and breast sensation
– Scarring
You may also need additional surgery to revise or remove your breast implants. Be sure to discuss the risks and complications of breast implants with your implant exchange & revision in Newport Beach surgeon before making a decision.
How are breast implants inserted and removed?
Breast implants are inserted and removed through incisions in the skin. The specific technique will depend on the type of implant being used. Saline implants are typically inserted using a periareolar or transaxillary approach, while silicone implants may be inserted via a variety of approaches, including inframammary, transaxillary, or periareolar.
After making an incision, the surgeon will create a pocket for the implant, either beneath the breast tissue or underneath the pectoral muscle. Once in place, the implants will be checked for symmetry and position before the incisions are closed with sutures.
Removal of breast implants is typically a straightforward procedure. The surgeon will make an incision in the same location as the original incision and then remove the implant. In some cases, the capsule around the implant may also need to be removed. After removing the implants, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures.
Types of breast implants
There are two main types of breast implants: saline and silicone. Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water. They are more inexpensive than silicone implants and can be inserted without the need for general anesthesia. However, saline implants are more likely to leak than silicone implants and may require more frequent revision surgeries. Silicone implants are made of a silicone outer shell filled with silicone gel. They are more expensive than saline implants but are less likely to leak. Breast implant surgery is not typically covered by insurance, as it is considered a cosmetic procedure. However, in some cases, such as when the surgery is being performed for reconstructive purposes, insurance may cover part or all of the cost. Be sure to check with your insurer to see if they have any coverage requirements.
The average cost of breast implants is $5,000 to $10,000. The exact cost will depend on the type of implant being used, the surgeon performing the procedure, and the geographic location. CosmetiCare offers financing options to help offset the cost of breast implants.
How to care for your breasts after surgery
After your surgery, you’ll need to take it easy for a few days. You may have some pain and swelling, but this can be managed with pain medication. Be sure to follow your surgeon’s instructions on how to care for your incisions and avoid putting any unnecessary strain on your chest.
You’ll also need to avoid any demanding activity, such as jogging or lifting heavy objects, for at least six weeks. You’ll need to wear a supportive bra during this time to help protect your incisions and support your breasts.
It’s also important to monitor your breasts for any changes, such as redness, tenderness, or discharge. Be sure to contact your surgeon if you have any concerns. It may take several months for your incisions to heal and your breasts to settle into their new shape. Once your implants have settled, you’ll be able to enjoy your results!
Breast implants are not meant to last a lifetime. You may need revision surgery at some point to remove or replace them. Be sure to discuss the potential for future surgeries with your surgeon before making a decision.
Conclusion
Breast implants are a popular choice for women who want to enhance their appearance. The surgery is typically safe and effective, but there are some risks involved. Be sure to discuss the risks and benefits with your surgeon before making a decision. Breast implants are not covered by insurance, so be prepared to pay out of pocket for the procedure. However, financing options are available to help offset the cost.
Overall, breast implants are a safe and effective way to achieve the look you desire. Be sure to do your research and choose a reputable surgeon to perform your procedure. Also, be sure to follow all post-operative instructions to ensure a successful recovery.