One of the most popular cosmetic procedures is breast implant surgery. Many women undergo this operation to reshape their bodies and achieve their desired appearance. Breast augmentation allows individuals to alter the size and shape of their breasts based on personal preferences. However, it’s essential to carefully evaluate whether this surgical procedure is the right choice after consulting qualified medical professionals.
Plastic surgeons who have expertise in breast surgery play a critical role. They ensure the operation is performed safely while considering each patient’s unique physiology and aesthetic goals.
Understanding the Diversity of Implants
The world of breast implants offers a diverse array of choices, each with its own distinct characteristics. Saline implants, filled with a sterile saltwater solution, and silicone implants, containing a cohesive gel, are among the most common options. Additionally, the implants’ shape (round or anatomical) and surface texture (smooth or textured) can be tailored to achieve the desired outcome.
If you’re considering breast enhancement surgery, also known as breast augmentation or augmentation mammoplasty, it’s important that you have a general understanding of the procedure.
Breast augmentation is a cosmetic surgery in which silicone or saline implants are inserted under the skin in order to create larger, firmer breasts. Once you have had a consultation with your surgeon, you’re ready to take the next step: choosing between silicone and saline breast implants. They both have an outer silicone shell, but they differ in material and consistency. To help you choose what is best for you, the following will look at the differences between silicone and saline implants.
Silicone implants
Silicone implants are pre-filled with silicone gel. The majority of women feel that silicone gel-filled breast implants look and feel more like natural breast tissue. Silicone gel-filled implants are used in more than 99% of breast augmentation procedures in Australia. A new, cohesive form of silicone gel (which sticks together in a predetermined shape) has been developed and is being used in new generation implants. The gel’s cohesiveness reduces the risk of dispersal in the event that the implant ruptures, as well as lowers the risk of visible implant rippling. It also maintains the shape of the breast more effectively than saline implants, particularly in the implant’s upper pole. Cohesive gel implants are available in both the anatomical (teardrop) and round shape.
Saline implants
These are empty when inserted beneath the skin and are then filled with sterile saltwater once they’re in place. Saline implants are readily available, but are no longer commonly used at the moment in Australia. They are, however, safe – should the implant rupture, the saline is released and then absorbed by the body. Although they feel firmer than silicone implants and may have a higher risk of rippling, many women prefer saline-filled implants because of the saline’s inherent safety. They’re also available in either the round or teardrop shape.
Implant shapes – round versus anatomical (teardrop)
Regarding breast implant shapes, round implants will give you more full and higher-looking breasts. They also will not rotate within the breast. On the other hand, the anatomical (teardrop) shape more closely resembles a breast’s natural shape and will thus give you a more natural and softer appearance with a naturally sloping upper pole. Your surgeon can discuss in more detail the advantages of each with you, but the implant shape you choose will depend on what you prefer. Also, during the consultation with your surgeon for breast augmentation, a decision will be made in regards to the amount of breast augmentation that will best meet your needs.
Breast Implants Before and After Images
Other useful information about Breast Implants
Here’s more information to help you choose which breast implant is best for you:
- You can reduce the amount of gel that might bleed from a silicone gel-filled implant by having “low bleed” shells that contain a barrier membrane in your breast implants.
- Having silicone breast implants doesn’t interfere with early tumour detection. You can self-examine your breasts, undergo mammography (i.e. regular breast cancer screening, using the Eklund technique or submuscular implantation), or have an ultrasound to examine breast tissue.
- Calcification of the implant capsule will also not interfere with tumour detection when undergoing mammography.
- Both silicone and saline breast implants do not increase your risk of getting breast cancer following surgery.
- Silicone materials in breast implants aren’t toxic or teratogenic and therefore won’t affect your reproductive system.
- Silicone gel-filled and saline-filled implants don’t cause immunological disorders or connective tissue diseases.
- The elastomer shells of both silicone and saline breast implants are strengthened using fumed silica, a form of amorphous silica. This means that it won’t cause any biological effects.
- Silicone in breast milk can be found in women with and without breast implants, so it shouldn’t be considered an issue relevant to the safety of both silicone and saline implants.
The breast implant type you choose will directly affect your overall look.
Whether you want a subtle change or a more dramatic difference, there’s a breast implant that’s right for you. Your surgeon may recommend one implant over the other for best results, based on the anatomy of your breast, your body type and other factors. In the end, however, it’s up to you to choose between the two. What’s important is that after the surgery, you are happy with the result, and more confident too.
If you have any questions feel free to contact our Team in Sydney or Orange NSW.
The Art of Measuring for Implants
A skilled plastic surgeon will meticulously evaluate breast dimensions, skin quality, and chest wall anatomy to determine the most suitable implant size, projection, and placement. This personalised approach ensures that the augmentation results appear natural and harmonious with the patient’s overall body proportions.
Beyond Volume: The Importance of Implant Selection
While implant size is often the primary concern, other factors contribute to the overall aesthetic outcome. Breast implant selection should consider your body proportions, skin quality, and personal preferences. Your plastic surgeon in Sydney will guide you through choosing the right implant type, shape, and profile to complement your unique anatomy.
Avoiding Pitfalls: Proper Placement Matters
Implant placement is a critical factor that can significantly impact the final result. Implants can be placed either under the pectoral muscle (submuscular) or directly behind the breast tissue (sub-glandular). The choice depends on existing breast tissue, physical activity levels, and the desired outcome. Improper placement can lead to complications or an unnatural appearance.
Seeking Guidance and Consultation
The successful breast augmentation journey begins with selecting an experienced plastic surgeon. Patients can openly discuss their goals, address concerns, and set realistic expectations during the consultation process. The best plastic surgeons in Sydney will carefully listen to their patient’s desires while also providing professional guidance based on an evaluation of their unique anatomy and body proportions. Individuals considering this procedure are encouraged to consult with dedicated professionals who prioritise achieving the desired aesthetic results and ensuring the patient’s safety and satisfaction.
Breast Implants & Enlargement Before and After Images
Understanding Risks and Recovery
Like any surgical procedure, breast augmentation carries potential risks, including infection, scarring, implant rupture or displacement, and changes in nipple or breast sensation. Your surgeon will explain these risks in detail and provide guidelines for a smooth recovery process.
Postoperative Care and Follow-up
Proper postoperative care is crucial for optimal healing and long-term implant maintenance. Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to get specific instructions on wound care, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments. Regular self-examinations and periodic imaging studies may also be recommended to monitor implant integrity.
How Much Do Breast Implants Cost in Australia?
The cost of breast implants in Australia can vary widely depending on factors such as the surgeon’s experience, the type of implant chosen, and the location of the procedure.
On average, the cost of Breast Implants in Australia ranges from $9,990 to $19,990. However, it’s essential to prioritise quality over cost and choose a reputable plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast augmentation procedures.
Final words
For women seeking to enhance the size of their breasts, Dr. Mark Kohout offers extensive experience having performed thousands of breast augmentations. He frequently combines breast enlargement with breast lift surgery in a single operation, providing a comprehensive approach to achieving your desired breast shape and projection.
The process begins with an in-depth consultation, where our breast implant surgeon in Sydney, carefully evaluates your unique body proportions and desired aesthetic goals. He then guides you through choosing breast implants with the most suitable implant type, size, shape, and surgical technique to create results that look natural and complement your figure.
Visit our clinics Sydney Clinic or Orange Clinic to learn about the choosing breast implants options available and receive detailed information to help make an informed decision.
Further Reading about Breast Implants with Sydney Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Mark Kohout
- Read more about Dr. Mark Kohout’s Breast Implants Procedure
- Read more about Dr. Mark Kohout’s Breast Implants & Enlargement Gallery
- Read more about Dr. Mark Kohout’s Choosing Breast Implants – A Guide Blog
- Read more about Dr. Mark Kohout’s Recovery after Breast Implant Removal Blog
- Read more about Dr. Mark Kohout’s Breast Implants Revisions: Assessing the Need for Surgery Blog
