The options are plentiful for women in New Jersey who are considering breast augmentation surgery, especially when it comes to selecting a style of implant. Thanks to advancements in technology, both silicone and saline implants are safer and more natural-looking than ever before. Despite the fact that breast augmentation is one of the most frequently performed cosmetic surgeries, it is not uncommon for patients to have questions and concerns when determining which type of implant to receive. The board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group in Florham Park, NJ are able to offer some insight to help patients become better informed.
Knowing what you want
The decision to undergo breast augmentation is an extremely personal one for women in New Jersey. Some women long for a sexy silhouette, along with the boost in self-confidence that implants can provide. Others are looking to restore their pre-pregnancy shape and opt for breast enhancement as part of a mommy makeover procedure. During a consultation with one of the highly-skilled, board-certified surgeons at The Peer Group, several factors will be discussed with the goal of determining which style, size, and shape of the implant are best suited to achieve the aesthetic goals you desire.
For years, the only options available to patients were round saline or silicone implants. These days, women are able to select from several types of innovatively designed and constructed devices that can provide the safety and natural look that most patients seek when they opt for breast augmentation.
Saline breast implants
There are many advantages associated with saline implants. During surgery, the devices are implanted into the chest via a smaller incision than what is required by other types of implants. That incision can be made under the arm, in the crease of the breast, or beneath the areola so that resulting scars will be discreet or barely visible. FDA approved for use in patients age 18 and older, saline implants are filled with a sterile saltwater solution. In the event of a rupture, the implant will deflate, making it apparent that a leak has occurred. The saline solution is safely absorbed by the body. Women who would rather not have silicone implants, or are under the age of 22 or those who want a more natural look, feel and enhanced cleavage are good candidates for saline implants.
Silicone breast implants
One of the most popular choices among patients in New Jersey, silicone implants are lauded for their ability to more closely mimic the look and feel of natural breasts. They also are less likely to take on the rippled appearance beneath the skin that is frequently experienced with saline implants. Approved by the FDA for use in patients over the age of 22, silicone implants are composed of a silicone shell that is filled with silicone gel. Because of this, the board-certified surgeons at The Peer Group generally must create a larger incision to place the pre-filled silicone implants in the chest than what is required by their saline counterparts.
One of the biggest concerns associated with silicone implants has been the risk of experiencing an undetected or silent rupture. Because they do not deflate when they leak, it can be difficult to determine when such an event occurs. As a result, patients are advised to undergo regular MRI screenings to determine the status of their silicone implants, as well as to confirm a rupture should one be suspected.
Gummy breast implants
Gummy implants closely resemble the natural tear shape of most women’s breasts. They are filled with cohesive silicone gel resembling the soft texture of the candies from which its name is derived. The cohesive gel is stronger and more stable than that is in traditional silicone implants. As a result, the risk of rupture is reduced with gummy breast implants. Their cohesive gel also allows them to better retain their shape longer. They are ideal implants for patients who lack adequate breast tissue, the shape of the implant (larger at the bottom of the implant than at the top) resembles that of a natural breast. Gummy breast implants are a good option for women who want more breast volume without the extreme shape of other implants.
Whether you choose saline or silicone, traditional or tear-shaped, patients in New Jersey should give careful thought to deciding which style of breast implant is right for them. The board-certified plastic surgeons of The Peer Group are here to help. Contact our office in Florham Park, NJ to schedule an appointment and learn more about the options that are available to you.