Table of Contents
When you’re considering any procedure, you’re bound to have a lot of questions. Read on for some of the most frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Breast Augmentation.
What Size Breast Implant is Best for Me?
This will all depend on your body type, the current size of breast tissue, goals, and more. Currently, trends show that the majority of patients seeking breast augmentation are not looking for overly large implants and want a more natural appearance. The average and most popular implant size used in the US is a C cup. This is something you can discuss in a consultation with Dr. Castrellón, where he will take into account all the above factors to help you select the size and shape that is right for you.
What is the Difference Between Saline and Silicone Breast Implants?
There are significant differences between saline and silicone breast implants including look and feel, method of insertion, incision locations, rupture risks, age requirements and more. Each implant type comes with its own pros and cons.
Saline Implants
Saline implants have an outer shell made of silicone and are filled with sterile salt water. One of the primary benefits of Saline Implants is that they are inserted empty and filled once they are placed. This opens up more incision location options and also results in smaller, less noticeable incision scars. They are also less expensive and it is easier to detect leaks and ruptures in them than it is in Silicone Gel Implants (see below). The downsides of Saline Implants is that they have a less natural look and feel when compared to Silicone Gel Implants and do carry a greater risk of rippling.
Silicone Gel Implants
Currently silicone implants are more popular than saline, with over 70% of breast implants performed in the US using silicone. This type of implant is often called a “gummy bear implant”. This is due to their texture which more closely resembles human breast tissue. They are slightly more expensive than their saline counterpart and do carry some routine maintenance requirements to check for rupture (see below).
Can I Get Silicone Gel Implants if I’m Under 22 Years-Old?
The FDA has not approved Silicone Gel implants for anyone under the age of 22. It is not illegal for women under the age of 22 to receive silicone gel implants, but the manufacturer will typically not honor the warranty in this case.
The FDA has approved Saline Implants for use in anyone over the age of 18. And, if an implant is for reconstruction, a person may get either type of implant regardless of age.
What Happens if my Breast Implant Leaks?
Regardless of the type of implant, the risk of rupture or leakage increases over time as the implant ages.
Saline Implant ruptures or leaks are very obvious. The breast will begin to deflate and the saltwater from inside the implant will be harmlessly absorbed by the body. Signs of saline implant deflation include: reduced breast size, firmness, or fullness. It can also sometimes be accompanied by symptoms such as headache or nausea.
Silicone Implant ruptures are much harder to detect because the gel is thicker and leaks much more slowly (if at all). For this reason, the FDA recommends MRI scans every two to three years to check silicone gel implants for ruptures. This is typically not covered by insurance unless the implants were used as part of reconstructive surgery.
Will I Still Be Able to Breastfeed if I Get a Breast Augmentation?
In most cases, yes. Breast Augmentation procedures do not involve the milk ducts or areas of the breast involved in milk production. That said, if you are planning to be pregnant in the near future, it might be best to wait until after childbirth and breastfeeding to do the procedure, as pregnancy and breastfeeding can cause physical changes to the breast tissue that could affect the appearance of your augmentation.
How Long Do Breast Implants Last?
It is important to note that Breast Augmentation is typically not a procedure that is done once and kept in for life. The FDA states that a breast implant should last for at least ten years. However, in some cases, they last longer and in some cases less. It’s important to take this information into account when considering Breast Augmentation.
Who is a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation?
As with all surgical procedures, a good candidate for Breast Augmentation is in good physical health, a non-smoker, with a healthy BMI. It is important to note that Breast Implants should only be used on a person whose breasts are fully developed.
How Long is Recovery After Breast Augmentation?
Another Breast Augmentation FAQ is how long recovery will take. This varies from person to person and we broke it down in more detail in another blog. Click here for the scoop on Breast Augmentation Recovery.
Considering Breast Augmentation in Miami? Get in touch.
We hope our Breast Augmentation FAQ was helpful to you. If you’re looking to undertake a Breast Augmentation surgery, get in touch. Dr. Castrellón is a Double Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon who can help you determine what size, shape, incision is right for you. In addition, during your consultation, you can discuss your candidacy, risk factors, budget, and more.
Call or email us today to book your complimentary in-person or online consultation.
