Breast augmentation, often called a “boob job” by patients, involves the use of implants or fat transfer to increase breast size. There is no standard type of breast implant because what looks fabulous on your friend does not mean the same implant would be suitable for you. Therefore, a consultation is advised before you make a decision. An experienced and knowledgeable plastic surgeon will be able to make suitable recommendations based on your current body type and physical evaluation.
Generally, the breast implants used nowadays are created with an outer shell made from silicone and an internal filling material. Fill materials could be traditional silicone implants, gummy bear silicone implants and saline implants. Each of them has their applications and subtle differences in appearance, feel and performance. In the following section, you will learn more about each of these types of implants.
The types of implants
Regular silicone gel implants
These implants are filled with silicone gel. Silicone implants are approved by the FDA for breast enhancement in women above the age of 22 and are also suitable for breast reconstruction surgery. Compared to saline implants, silicone gel feels somewhat more like natural breast tissue. These implants are safe and have not been connected to breast cancer or any other condition.
Highly cohesive silicone gel breast implants
Also known as gummy bear or form stable implants, highly cohesive silicone gel breast implants are filled with a cohesive gel that makes them somewhat thicker and firmer than traditional silicone implants. Gummy bear implants are becoming more common because of their satisfactory results and outstanding performance.
They generally last longer with a lower incidence of rippling, rupture and capsular contracture, in contrast to traditional silicone and saline breast implants. The shape is also more consistent in the long run, with few cases of malposition or bottoming out. Like traditional silicone, they require a larger incision in the skin.
Saline breast implants
These implants contain sterile saltwater. Saline breast implants are the option for women who do not want silicone implants and those who want a significant level of fullness of projection. In the right patient, saline implants can appear natural, although they are generally less popular than silicone implants.
Saline implants can be adjusted based on the volume to modify the breast size of women with asymmetrical breast sizes. They usually require smaller incisions during placement, unlike silicone-based implants. However, saline implants feel less natural than silicone implants and are more prone to rupture and rippling.
Fat transfer breast augmentation
Breast enhancement with fat transfer involves extracting unwanted fat from your abdomen, hips or thighs. These fat cells will be injected into your breasts after purification. More women are opting for this procedure because it is entirely natural and makes it possible to sculpt other areas. It is, however, still less popular than implant breast augmentation because of reliability and consistency issues.
Final note
Regardless of the implant you choose for the breast augmentation procedure, you must continuously monitor your implants and consult with your plastic surgeon for routine checkups.
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