If you are considering breast augmentation, you may find yourself overwhelmed by the options available. Should you use a fat-transfer technique, or implants? If you require implants, should you use silicone or saline? The Food and Drug Administration has approved only two types of breast implants in the U.S. These are saline implants, and silicone implants. Both silicone and saline implants have the same silicone outer shell.
The Food and Drug Administration further reports that many breast augmentation patients are pleased with their results following surgery. There are many good reasons women choose to undergo breast augmentation. About 70% of women choose to undergo breast augmentation for cosmetic reasons, while 30% of women undergo breast augmentation for medical reasons.
Breast augmentation using silicone has been heavily studied. Dr. Leonard Grossman, who has been performing the procedure for more than 25 years, was involved in studies regarding the safety of silicone implants while there was a moratorium in the U.S. regarding the procedure. The Department of Health and Human Services in conjunction with the Institute of Medicine reviewed 17 epidemiological reports of disease in women with silicone breast implants, and found that there was no increased risk of disease in women with silicone breast implants. The committees found that as many as 1.8 million women had undergone breast augmentation using silicone breast implants when the study began. The numbers speak for themselves.
Dr. Leonard Grossman explains that over the years, scientific and technological improvements have made these implants safer than ever. Yet, there are real risks associated with any implant because the implant can break. And, when silicone implants break, it can be difficult to remove the silicone if it enters the body cavity.
In order to mitigate these risks, patients who choose to use silicone breast implants are recommended to have an MRI of the breasts every three years. Additionally, women who choose to use any kind of implant should be aware that implants are not meant to last forever and may need to be replaced during lifetime. The MRI can let your doctor know if your implant requires replacement.
Silicone implants have the benefit of maintaining the shape of the breast, even if a break occurs, but this can make it difficult for you to know if a break has taken place.
It is important for patients to carefully consider their options before deciding which implant to use. A skilled and experienced plastic surgeon can review your aesthetic goals, and help you make an informed decision. When properly performed, silicone breast implants and breast augmentation can offer patients years of enjoyment and provide a natural, beautiful appearance.
The decision to undergo plastic surgery is very personal for each woman. If you’re considering embarking on this journey, you need a surgeon who can offer an honest assessment of risk and help you make the best decision for your lifestyle. Dr. Leonard Grossman, M.D. has tremendous experience consulting with patients to help them achieve the beautiful new look they’ve always dreamed of, in an informed, safe and honest way.
