Breast Augmentation: Learn What Experts Have To Say About the Procedure
Breast augmentation, also known as breast implant, is one of the top cosmetic surgeries. The number of people who underwent this surgery has tripled since 1997. In 2018, approximately 310,000 women and teenagers in the U.S. had their breasts enlarged using saline or silicone implants.
Even though this procedure is very common, people are uncertain about numerous topics related to implants. That’s why in this article, we’ll help you understand more about the procedure and its removal.
So, let’s begin!
What Is Breast Augmentation?
It is a medical prosthesis that is placed inside or under the chest muscles or breast tissue to reconstruct, augment or create a physical form of the breast. The surgery generally focuses on increasing the breast’s shape, fullness, and size.
Generally, there are three types of implants used depending upon the patient’s requirements. These are:
- Silicone gel-filled
- Saline
- Alternative composite implants such as gummy bear
The size of implants also depends upon the needs and desires of the patient.
Why Do People Opt For This Procedure?
As mentioned above, the reason to get a procedure done depends upon personal preference. Nevertheless, the following are the common reasons why people opt for the procedure:
- To restore the breast size and shape after weight loss, pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- To enlarge the naturally small breasts.
- To create symmetry.
- To restore breasts after surgery (especially after treatment for breast cancer).
Can You Remove Breast Implants?
Not many people know this, but yes, you can remove implants. In a talk about breast implant removal with Dr. Courtney, he explained that implants can be removed to change their size, asymmetry, rupture, leak, or deflation. Also, with aging and lifestyle changes, breasts start sagging. Implants are often removed and replaced with new ones to match the current lifestyle.
He further explains that women may choose for removal due to numerous personal reasons, such as:
- Health concerns
- Changing implant type
- Complications such as capsular contracture, implant displacement, or infection
- Desire to restore the breast to its original size
Are Implants Unsafe?
Each implant, regardless of type, is manufactured and tested according to the safety standards set by the federal government. Manufacturers in the U.S. are also subjected to oversight by the U.S. FDA (Food and Drug Administration).
All the tests and safety standards ensure that the implants stay strong and durable. This also means the chances of rupture or leak are rare.
Do The Results Last Forever?
Depending upon the type of implants used, they can last for 5 to 10 years. However, the results do not last forever. Just like every other medical or cosmetic procedure, implants have a set timespan. Manufacturers and surgeons often recommend replacing or removing them around the 10-year mark.
Should you get them removed early or late also depends upon your lifestyle, health, and how intact implants are. Therefore, it is essential to consult surgeons while considering removal or replacement.
Final Thoughts!
Whether you consider getting implants or are worried about their removal, it is good to enlighten yourself about the procedure. Before getting started, it is wise to consult a board-certified surgeon to clear any other doubts that you may have.
