Breast Implants

Breast implants are used for breast augmentation and breast reconstruction after mastectomy. Breast implants are made of a silicone outer shell, filled with a sterile saline solution at the time of surgery (saline implants). The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has currently restricted the use of silicone implants using silicone gel except for extreme circumstances, therefore, saline implants are presently used most often. Saline implants are made of a silicone elastomer outer shell, which are filled with sterile saline solution.

Saline Implants Over Silicone Implants

The saline implant shells come in many shapes and sizes. The breast implant shells have either a smooth or textured surface. Saline implants have had a history of being safe, and are less harmful than silicone implants. For instance, if a saline implant ruptures or leaks, the saline solution (made from salt water) is not harmful and is easily absorbed by the body. Furthermore, if a leak or rupture occurs, the implant will deflate quickly allowing for easy detection of the rupture. The patient can then have the implant replaced in a timely fashion.

Some studies have suggested that saline implants may have a lower rate of capsular contracture than the silicone gel implants. Capsular contracture is tight scar formation around the implant, which can cause the implant to feel hard or distort its shape. Additionally, most patients with saline implants are very pleased with their results.

Research has shown that there is no increased risk to those women with breast implants in developing connective tissue disorder, than faced by those without breast implants. The U.S. National Cancer Institute released a study on women with breast implants. The study contains the theory that women with implants do not have an increased risk for developing breast cancer.

Breast Implants (Augmentation Mammaplasty)

Quick Facts*

Procedure: Enhance the size of breasts using inflatable saline implants.

Length: 1 to 2 hours. [Depending on the Surgeon]

Anesthesia: Local with sedation, or general.

In/Outpatient: Usually outpatient.

Side Effects: Temporary soreness, swelling, change in nipple sensation, bruising. Breast sensitive to stimulation for a few weeks.

Risks: Lack of breast implant permanence -- surgical removal or replacement of the implants may be required to treat problems, including: deflation; the formation of scar tissue around the implant (capsular contracture), which may cause the breast to feel tight or hard; bleeding or infection. Increase or decrease in sensitivity of nipples or breast skin, occasionally permanent. Mammography requires a special technique. (Note: Some women have reported symptoms similar to those of immune disorders. Ask your doctor about these and other FDA concerns.)

Recovery: Back to work: a few days. Physical contact with breasts: 3 to 4 weeks. Fading of scars: several months to a year or more.

Duration of Results: Variable. Breast implants may require removal or replacement.

*From The American Society of Plastic Surgeons www.plasticsurgery.org