One of the key factors that will impact the final outcome of breast augmentation surgery is the type of breast implants chosen by the patient. Patients should closely engage with the surgeon while making the selection of implant type, size, and shape. They should consider not only the size, but also how proportionate their body will appear and whether the implant type is meeting all their personal needs.
At the time of finalizing the surgical plan, the surgeon will discuss the pros and cons of various implant qualities and sizes, and help the patient make the best decision. Board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Angela Champion provides breast augmentation to patients in Newport Beach, Orange County, CA, and surrounding communities.
Saline vs. Silicone
The two basic categories of breast implants include saline filled and silicone gel filled implants. Both types of implants have been approved by the FDA.
Saline Implants
Saline implants include a sterile saline solution in their soft core, while the outer shell is made of silicone. The benefit with these implants is that the saline solution can be filled after the implant has been placed inside the breast tissue, which requires a smaller incision. Secondly, the saline solution is fully biocompatible, making the patient risk-free in the event of implant leakage.
The FDA allows these implants to be used for women above the age of 18. One of the limitations of saline implants is that they cannot provide the natural touch and feel of the breast tissue, and many women find them to be slightly harder to touch.
Silicone Implants
Over the years, silicone implants have scored in popularity over saline implants. The FDA has approved these implants for women above the age of 21. The advantage with these implants is that they provide superior aesthetic effect and a more natural touch and feel. The silicone gel material in the implant core can mimic the feel of the natural breast tissue.
The safety and efficacy of silicone implants has been sufficiently proved over the years. Improved qualities have made these implants safer than ever before. Board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Champion receives patients from Newport Beach, Orange County, CA, and nearby areas for breast augmentation.
Form Stable Implants
Form stable implants, popularly known as gummy bear implants, have emerged as a new and superior option in silicone implants. These ultra-cohesive silicone implants have been approved by the FDA. Due to their high viscosity of silicone gel, these implants can maintain their form and shape even under pressure, and provide a more natural breast tissue effect.
In the event of implant damage, even if the implant shell is broken or cut into two halves, the thick silicone gel will not leak out to other areas.
Size and Shape
Breast implants are available in sizes ranging from 120 cc to 960 cc. The implant shapes can be round or tear-shaped, while the implant surface may be plain or texture. Customized aesthetic outcomes can be created by choosing the right combination of implant type, size, shape, and profile.
To learn more about treatments and procedures by Board Certified Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon Angela Champion, M.D. contact us at 949.640.4005. Taking new patients from in and around Newport Beach | Orange County CA.