2. Are silicone implants considered to be safe?
The FDA pulled silicone implants off the market for first time breast augmentation patients who are only seeking a cosmetic enhancement. They were still used for the majority of other breast surgeries which included reconstruction, patients who need a lift, and patients who are replacing their implants due to rippling and thinning of the breast. After nearly 15 years the FDA has given silicone the seal of approval and have been back on the market for nearly 5 years. They do ask that patients are over the age of 22 and that an MRI is obtained three years from the time of placement and every other year thereafter.
3. What do I need to know about the new gummy bear implants?
With the most recent reintroduction of silicone implants approximately five years ago they were considered to be cohesive or gummy bear in texture. This was the first generation gummy bear implants. If the shell of the implant is ruptured the silicone still holds its shape and does not pour out of the puncture site. They are very soft and nature when compared to saline. The second-generation gummy bear implants have recently been introduced and are much firmer and texture than the first. They have a more formal Chapin are available and multiple dimensions in regards to width, height and projection. They were really created for the reconstructive patient who has minimal breast tissue and requires the contour of the formed implant. However most of these implants tend to be a teardrop in shape and one considered in a cosmetic patient they may at times over exaggerate the lower pole of the breast leaving the upper pole rather empty. And effect they are not the best implant choice for every patient particularly a cosmetic patient who desires more height and projection in their breast. As breasts age they do become more bottom heavy hence require from us to neutralize the natural fall of the breast and rejuvenate shape. Patients with chest while asymmetry and deficiency of volume or certain requirements in regards to cleavage and spacing between their breasts the formed implants may provide a benefit.
4. What is the difference between textured and smooth surface implants?
Smooth surface implants tend to be more commonly used and show minimal rippling however they may be associated with a higher capsular contraction rate? This relates to the implant capsule becoming tighter around the implant itself and making the breast appear tighter, asymmetric or more firm. It is thought that the texturing of the implant surface creates adherence to the empty plant pocket thereby minimizing this contraction process. Another use for texturing is when someone has had a long-standing implant that has thinned and bottomed out in the pocket. These patients can benefit from a pocket reconstruction and replacement of their smooth implant with a textures device. The texturing will allow for adherence of the new implant to the pocket and minimize relapse or bottoming out.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, please visit www.marcmalekmd.com or call 480-551-2040.
