Silicone breast implants are a popular choice in
breast augmentation surgery for breast reconstruction or to enhance the size of the breasts. The use of silicone implants has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for women ages 22 and up; however, in the case of reconstruction, these implants may be used in younger ages.
Breast Implant Surgery
Filled with an elastic silicone gel, silicone implants are highly praised for mimicking the feel of natural breast tissue. In breast augmentation surgery, the implants are placed either under the pectoral muscle or over the pectoral muscle behind the breast tissue. Your plastic surgeon will determine which placement method is best for you.
Once the surgery is completed, you'll likely be sore for several weeks as your breasts heal and grow accustomed to the silicone implants. Over the following weeks, the swelling will begin to subside and you'll be able to resume your normal daily activities. However, when breast augmentation is combined with other body contouring procedures, such as
liposuction, your recovery may be a bit longer.
Potential Risks
Some risks are possible with breast augmentation surgery. Infection, bleeding, and fluid accumulation can occur following the surgery, and more importantly, implant rupture. If your silicone implants begin to leak or completely rupture, it may be hard to detect with a normal physical exam as this type of implant does not collapse. An ultrasound or MRI is best to determine the condition of your silicone implants. Sometimes the rupture can be contained within the surrounding scar tissue, but there is the risk of it leaking outside of this area. If this occurs, your cosmetic surgeon will need to remove the silicone implant and replace it with a new one.
Although silicone implants are a popular choice among cosmetic surgery patients, they aren't for everyone. Only a qualified plastic surgeon can determine if this option is right for you. Contact our
Bethesda, Maryland plastic surgery center today to learn more or to schedule a consultation.