What types of breast implants are available?
Saline (salt water) filled breast implants are available in a variety of styles from several manufacturers. Dr. Newman does not use the same implant type on everybody, as each patient presents with different issues and wishes. Silicone gel filled implants are again available, but only for specific situations. Since Dr. Newman is part of the national protocol studying silicone implants, they are available to his patients when their situation qualifies. Saline implants are available with or without a textured coating. They are available in round and contoured shapes. Size adjustable implants are also available in certain cases. After your discussion with Dr. Newman, he will suggest what he feels is the best implant choice to achieve your goals. Together, you will both decide which is right for you.
There are many choices of implant type, shape and surface available. Each type of implant has its strong and weak points, and there is no one implant that is the perfect choice for every patient. This is where your surgeon’s expertise and experience will be of great benefit. In the United States, saline filled implants are currently the only implants available for most patients. Silicone implants are still available in certain situations such as for breast reconstruction, augmentation in combination with breast lift and in cases where saline implants have not produced acceptable results. Dr Squires is an investigator in the Silicone Adjunct Study and is one of a select few plastic surgeons in this country who can provide silicone implants when indicated. Implant shape: The most commonly used implants are ovals of varying projections, although they are commonly referred to as “round”. The standard shape is known as a “moderate profile” implant and has been in use for many years. “High P
There are different shapes available and different implant surfaces available. Primarily, there is a round shape and there is the so-called anatomical shape. These may be covered with a smooth silicone surface or a textured surface. Which implant is right depends on the patient’s individual needs and surgeon preferences, and implant size and shape. Depending on the desired shape, the patient and the surgeon may choose a round or contoured implant. Generally, the larger the cup size, the larger the breast implant the surgeon will consider. All surgery carries some risk. The primary safety issues include: Capsular contracture, or build-up of scar tissue around the implant that can cause breast firmness. When severe, this may require corrective surgery. Deflation is generally harmless, but carries the risk of additional surgery for replacement. Current data shows a deflation rate of 5.8 percent for implant models currently in use, according to the University of Minnesota study. Infection
There are currently two types of breast implants available for breast augmentation: saline or silicone gel filled. Both types come within a silicone shell. Both types of implants have been approved for use by the FDA. After extensive studies relating to human health conditions, it has been found that there is no solid evidence linking breast implants, silicone or saline, to any cancer, systemic or neurological diseases.
