Breast augmentation is one of the most popular plastic surgeries worldwide. In recent years, advances in breast implant technology have allowed women to customize their surgery based on their personal needs and desires. If you’re considering breast augmentation surgery, it’s important that you know the different types of breast implants available. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need about the types of breast implants.
Types of breast implants
Saline implants:
What are saline implants?
Saline implants are made of a silicone shell filled with a sterile saline solution. This solution is inserted into the implant once it has been placed in the chest.
How are they placed?
The implant is inserted through a small incision in the chest and then filled with saline once it has been placed. The surgeon may adjust the amount of saline to achieve the desired size and shape.
Advantages and disadvantages of saline
Advantages:
- They are less expensive than silicone gel implants.
- They are easier to detect if there is a leak or rupture.
- Saline is completely safe for the human body.
Disadvantages:
- Saline implants may appear stiffer or less natural than other types of implants.
- Saline can move inside the implant, which can lead to ripples or wrinkles on the surface of the breast.
- They may be less durable than other types of implants.
Silicone implants
What are silicone implants?
Silicone implants are made of a silicone shell filled with silicone gel. This gel is a viscous material that resembles human breast tissue.
How are they placed?
The implant is inserted through a small incision in the chest and then placed in the desired position. Silicone implants come prefilled and cannot be adjusted after surgery.
Advantages and disadvantages of silicone:
Advantages:
- Silicone implants may appear more natural and gentle than other types of implants.
- They can last longer than other types of implants.
- There is a wide variety of sizes and shapes available.
Disadvantages:
- They are more expensive than saline implants.
- They may be harder to detect if there is a leak or rupture.
- They may require revisions or replacements in the future.
Cohesive gel implants
What are cohesive gel implants?
Cohesive gel implants, also known as “gummy bear implants,” are made from a silicone shell filled with a thicker silicone gel than traditional silicone implants.
How are they placed?
The implant is inserted through a small incision in the chest and then placed in the desired position. Cohesive gel implants cannot be adjusted after surgery.
Advantages and disadvantages of cohesive gel:
Advantages:
- Cohesive gel implants may appear more natural and gentle than other types of implants.
- They have less risk of rupture or leakage.
- They can last longer than other types of implants.
Disadvantages:
- They are more expensive than saline implants.
- They may require a larger incision than other types of implants due to their thicker consistency.
- They may be less common and have fewer size and shape options available.
Polyurethane implants
What are polyurethane implants?
Polyurethane implants are made of a silicone shell coated with a polyurethane foam. This foam coating adheres to the surrounding tissue, which can reduce the likelihood of implant displacement.
How are they placed?
The implant is inserted through a small incision in the chest and then placed in the desired position. Polyurethane implants cannot be fitted after surgery.
Advantages and disadvantages of polyurethane:
Advantages
- Polyurethane implants have a lower rejection rate compared to other types of implants.
- They may have less risk of displacement or rotation.
- They can help prevent capsular contracture, a common complication after breast augmentation surgery.
Disadvantages:
- They are more expensive than saline implants and some silicone implants.
- They may require a larger incision than other types of implants due to the foam coating.
- They may not be suitable for all patients due to the presence of polyurethane.
Conclusion
Choosing the right type of breast implant is an important decision that should be made in consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon. Each type of implant has unique advantages and disadvantages, and it is important to consider factors such as cost, durability, and desired final appearance when making a decision. With the information provided in this article, we hope you can make an informed decision about the type of breast implant that best suits your needs and goals.
