Picking the Right Implant
Breast implants are round or teardrop-shaped pouches made of silicone. Inside, the implants may be filled with a saline solution or a silicone gel. Though there have been past concerns about silicone-filled breast implants, as of 2006 the FDA has approved two brands of silicone-filled implants for the use in women over the age of 22.
“The FDA decision gives patients a choice and it also states that patients need to educate themselves about breast implants and surgeons should give them this information,” says Bash. “There are pros and cons with each type of implant.”
Saline implants, in comparison, are approved for use in women age 18 or older. No matter what, it is recommended that a woman should not undergo breast augmentation until her breasts have stopped developing, that is, after puberty.
There are various sizes and shapes of breast implants available, but in addition, they may vary in their texture and the way they will look once implanted. The size and type of breast implant you ultimately choose will depend a lot on your goals for surgery. Therefore, it is important to be clear with your surgeon about what you want to get out of breast augmentation surgery and to listen to your surgeon’s advice.
“First, be realistic with what you want,” says Bash. “Work with the surgeon to find out what is possible.”
Based on your desires, your surgeon will recommend the implant he thinks will suit you best. Be sure to ask about the pros and cons of choosing this particular implant and about the alternatives availalable.
