Comparing Various Types of Breast Implants
The USFDA gives the following definition of a breast implant: “A medical device implanted under the breast tissue or chest muscle for breast augmentation or reconstruction.” Breast implants are therefore used for primary/revision augmentation and primary/revision reconstruction. Breast implants vary in profiles, sizes and textures. An anal ysis of these different characteristics is being done here to enable the consumer to fully understand her choice in the matter.
Implant Surface
Implants can be either smooth or textured. Textured implants were developed in order to diminish the risks of capsular contracture. This is the formation of scar tissue around the implant which compresses it and eventually causes it to rupture. Scar tissue is formed around any foreign object that enters the body. However, there is little evidence that textured implants have any significant effect in preventing capsular contracture. Moreover, textured implants may cause the breasts to appear rippled. Hence, many doctors still prefer using smooth implants.
Implant Fillers
There are mainly two types of implant fillers: saline and silicone. Silicone implants contain a silicone gel. The problem with silicone gel is that when it ruptures, there is little chance of anybody knowing about it (silent rupture). A number of claims had been made by women that silicone gel leaks caused cancer, hair loss and a wide array of health problems but no scientific evidence could be found. Because of these claims, the FDA banned the use of silicone implants until 2006. Saline implants consist of an outer shell containing a saline solution. When they rupture, the implant deflates and the saline solution is simply absorbed by the body. However, many women still prefer silicone gel implants due to its smoother texture.
Implant Sizes
The size of an implant depends on the wishes of the patient (i.e. what bra size she wants). However, there are different factors that affect whether a particular implant size is suitable for a patient (e.g. ribcage size, chest shape, existing breast size). Discussion with the surgeon about the size of breasts the patient wants is very important. Most surgeons will use photographs of women approximating the body size and height of the patient to determine this as statement of bra sizes (C-cups or D-Cups) are grossly variable and inaccurate.
Implant Shape
Shapes can be round or anatomical (teardrop, contoured or shaped). These choices depend on what appears to be more natural on the woman. Many surgeons prefer round implants as their shape changes when the woman moves, as a normal breast would. Anatomical implants are pre-shaped and retain this shape whatever the position of the woman. This may cause it to appear unnatural.
Implant Profile
This refers to the extent the implant will cause your breasts to project from the chest wall. There are generally three choices: low, medium and high, with the low profile projecting the least. While this may be a matter of choice, women with narrow frames would do better to choose low or medium profiles. However, higher profiles decrease the risk of rippling in the breasts.