What are breast implants | Types | Procedure | Advantages

Breast implants are artificial devices used to change the size, shape, and contour of a person's breasts. They are commonly used in two types of plastic surgery procedures:

1. Breast augmentation: This cosmetic surgery is done to enlarge the breasts, often to enhance appearance or restore breast volume lost after weight reduction or pregnancy.

2. Breast reconstruction: This surgery rebuilds the breast shape after mastectomy (breast removal) or to correct congenital defects and deformities of the chest wall.

 Types of Breast Implants:

There are four main types of breast implants based on their filler material:

1. Saline implants: These have an elastomer silicone shell filled with sterile saline (salt water) solution during surgery.

2. Silicone implants: These have an elastomer silicone shell pre-filled with viscous silicone gel. The silicone is crossed-linked to make it feel soft yet provide a firm support. The silicone should not flow into the breast tissue even after many years of ware and tear of the capsule.

3. Structured implants: These use nested elastomer silicone shells and two saline-filled lumens. These are not available easily.

4. Alternative composition implants: These feature miscellaneous fillers like soy oil or polypropylene string. These are completely outdated now.

Breast implants also come in different shapes - round or teardrop (anatomical). The shell can be smooth or textured. The commonest shape used is round. The flipping of anatomical implants is common. Hence, a round shape that does not look odd even after flipping is preferred by most of the surgeons. The upper pole fullness can be achieved using fat to fill it.

Breast Augmentation Procedure

Breast augmentation surgery typically takes 1-1/2 to 2 hours under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision in the crease under the breast, around the nipple, or in the armpit. They create a pocket either under the breast tissue or under the chest muscle and inserts the implant.

At LaserCosmesis, we believe in not violating the breast tissue as it happens in the case of the periareolar incision. Also, an incision in the armpit makes it difficult to place the implant properly up to the mammary crease. Hence our preference is mammary crease incision.

Recovery usually takes 1 month, with some swelling, bruising, and soreness. During this time, you must use a supporting bra, not put heavy strain on your shoulders and avoid jolts to your body. Most women can return to work and light activity after a week though. Strenuous exercise is usually allowed after 4-6 weeks.

Once 6 weeks are over, your life essentially comes to normalcy. You are advised to visit the doctor at 3, 6, and 12 months for a check up. After that
mammography or sonography is done every year to check the implants and rule out any breast-related conditions ( that occur in even nonimplant patients anyway).

Breast Reconstruction Procedure:

Breast reconstruction is a more complex surgery that may involve multiple stages. The surgeon first creates a pocket for the implant, either using a tissue expander or by moving muscle and skin from the abdomen.

After the pocket is ready, the surgeon inserts a breast implant. Additional procedures may be done to create a nipple and areola.

Recovery time is longer than for augmentation, with a hospital stay of 1-3 days. It may take 2-4 weeks to return to light activities, and 6-8 weeks for strenuous exercise.

Advantages of Breast Implants:

1. Improved Appearance: Breast implants can enhance the size, shape, and symmetry of the breasts, boosting self-confidence and body image. This can done even in unmarried girls with body image issues once they turn 21 years.

2. Restored Breast Volume: Implants can restore breast volume lost due to pregnancy, weight loss, or aging.

3. The implants perk up your breast lifting and projecting it better. A very lax and hanging breast may not improve but moderate laxity can be definitely taken up by an implant along with certain modifications of the technique.

4. Reconstructive Benefits: Breast reconstruction after mastectomy can help restore a natural breast appearance and improve emotional well-being.

5. Customizable Options: Patients can choose from a variety of implant types, sizes, and shapes to achieve their desired look.

6. Long-Lasting Results: With proper care, breast implants can last for many years, providing long-term sureshot improvement.

7. Minimal Scarring: Modern surgical techniques result in discreet incisions that heal well and are often barely visible.

Breast implants are a popular choice for both cosmetic enhancement and reconstructive surgery. They offer a range of advantages in terms of improved appearance, restored volume, and customizable options to meet individual needs.